Introduction
Switching regulator modules provide efficient and compact DC-DC voltage conversion for powering sensitive electronics. Pre-certified modules simplify integration versus discrete regulator designs. This guide examines 10 top options across key performance criteria to suit different application needs.
Comparison Criteria
The following crucial characteristics help determine optimal switching regulator modules for a project:
- Input Voltage Range - Wider input ranges allow use in more systems without redesign.
- Output Voltage/Current - Match module output to load requirements with margin for reliability.
- Efficiency - Higher efficiency conserves power and reduces thermal overhead.
- Size - Compact footprints preserve board space in dense designs.
- Temperature Range - Wider operating temperatures support more environments.
- Protections - Overload, short circuit, and overtemperature protections prevent damage.
- Standards - Certifications like EN/UL 62368-1 validate safety and performance.
- EMI/Noise - Lower radiated emissions simplify system integration in noise-sensitive applications.
- Cost - Module cost balances performance with budgetary constraints.
With these factors in mind, here are 10 excellent switching regulator module options for diverse needs.
10 Top Switching Regulator Modules
1. Recom R-78E5.0-0.5
- 0.9-5.5V input; 5V, 0.5A output
- Up to 93% efficiency
- Extremely compact SMT package
- -40 to 85°C operating temp
- Input undervoltage lockout
- EN/UL 62368-1 certified
- Very low cost
2. CUI Inc PSKM-0505S
- 4.5-18V input; 5V, 5A output
- Up to 95% efficiency
- Small through-hole DIP package
- -40 to 100°C operating temp
- Output short circuit protection
- Meets medical and industrial standards
- Moderate cost
3. RECOM R-785.0-0.5
- 4.5-18V input; 5V, 0.5A output
- Up to 93% efficiency
- Tiny SMT package saves space
- -40 to 85°C operating temp
- Overcurrent and thermal shutdown protection
- EN/UL 62368-1 certified
- Very low cost
4. Cincon EC5B06
- 4.5-13.8V input; 5V, 6A output
- Up to 93% efficiency
- Compact SMT with large pins
- -40 to 105°C operating temp
- Overload and short circuit protection
- Meets railway standards
- Low cost
5. Murata UWE-12/15
- 9-36V input; 12V, 15A output
- Up to 95% efficiency
- Through-hole module simplicity
- -40 to 85°C operating temp
- Overcurrent and overtemp protection
- EN/UL 62368-1 certified
- Moderate cost
6. TI PTN78020WAH
- 4.5-17V input; 12V, 20A output
- Up to 95% efficiency
- Thermally efficient LGA surface mount
- -40 to 125°C operating temp
- Adjustable output voltage
- Extensive protections
- Moderate cost
7. CUI Inc VHK200
- 18-75V input; 24V, 20A output
- Up to 97% efficiency
- Large through-hole package
- -40 to 100°C operating temp
- Input under/overvoltage lockout
- IEC/EN/UL 62368-1 certified
- High power density
- Moderate cost
8. Recom R5KVA240300
- 22-160VAC input; 24V, 300W output
- Up to 94% efficiency
- Compact enclosed SMT module
- -40 to 85°C operating temp
- Overload and overtemp protection
- Meets railway standards
- Low EMI
- Moderate cost
9. CUI Inc VYB10-Q48-S12
- 7.5-360V input; 48V, 12A output
- Up to 97% efficiency
- Broad input range
- -40 to 100°C operating temp
- Adjustable output voltage
- Protections against faults
- Medical and industrial approvals
- High cost
10. Delta EMI4015C
- 18-75V input; 15V, 4A output
- Up to 93% efficiency
- Tiny SIP package
- -40 to 105°C operating temp
- Overcurrent and overtemp protection
- EN/IEC/UL 62368-1 certified
- Very low EMI
- Low cost
Key Considerations
With a wide variety of quality switching modules available, product engineers should:
- Carefully define voltage, efficiency, temperature, and protection needs based on system requirements.
- Evaluate board space and output power limitations early in the design process.
- Weigh costs against required certifications and operating lifetime.
- Review EMI performance for noise-sensitive applications.
- Partner with distributors to source optimal modules at scale.
- Allow adequate time for regulatory testing; don't assume certifications.
- Get samples to verify performance under real-world loading conditions.
Conclusion
Switching regulator modules simplify delivering efficient and stable DC power conversion in electronics designs. This guide compiled 10 excellent options across performance criteria like efficiency, size, protections, and cost to suit different project needs. By carefully defining system requirements and ordering samples, engineering teams can confidently select optimal pre-certified modules to accelerate development and enhance power system reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are the main advantages of using a switching regulator module?
Answer: Switching modules offer proven designs, simplified integration, compact size, high efficiency, and built-in protections. Pre-certification also avoids lengthy testing.
Question: What key specifications should we define when selecting a module?
Answer: Carefully determine input voltage range, output voltage/current needs, efficiency goals, temperature range, size constraints, protections, certifications, EMI requirements, and cost budget.
Question: Should we buy samples before selecting a module?
Answer: Yes, ordering samples allows testing for actual performance and certifications under your loading conditions. Don't assume advertised specs will meet needs.
Question: How do you ensure the module will fit the design?
Answer: Review footprint dimensions early when space is constrained. Also account for required peripherals like input/output caps that impact total size.
Question: What is the benefit of adjustable output voltage modules?
Answer: Adjustable output voltage gives flexibility to tweak voltage as needed to optimize the design versus being locked to a fixed output.
