For a system to run smoothly and effectively over the long run, its owners need to understand information about the power requirements of each system component and how they work together. This information helps drive decisions about power supply selection.
Some of the key points below can help in the evaluation and selection process of power supplies.
1. Power requirements of the system
Determining the power requirement of your system is the first and most important thing to consider. It is crucial to understand the load requirements of your system in terms of watts, volts and amperes. You should know the answers to questions like, "What is the peak power requirement of a given system?", "What are the minimum power requirements?", and "Does the system run at a constant power level?"
2. Type of package: Desktop or wall plug?
Generally, there are two package types available for external power supplies: desktop plug or wall plug (it can be fixed or multi-blade). You can use either option for your system as they work for many applications. However, to select one type over the other, you can consider the following points:
- Wattage range: Larger case sizes and consequently higher output power options are normally offered by desktop adapters. So, as a general rule, for applications with higher wattage requirements, desktop adapters are better, whereas for applications with lower wattage requirements wall plug adapters are better.
- Global markets: Multi-blade wall plugs and desktops are a good option for marketing your product or design in multiple regions. The same power supply can be used by the modularity of multi-blade wall plugs or otherwise known as ac blades and desktop adapters or known as AC cords. To fulfill the plug standards of the end market, swap over the multi-blade wall plugs (blade) or desktop (cord).
- Size and portability: Weight, size and aesthetics of the package matter if the power supply is being used in a portable application or is visible in a design. To reduce the size and weight of the power supply, you can use the adapters with gallium nitride technology.
3. DC cable and plug
A method of plugging the adapter in your system is needed to power your system with an external adapter. The determination of the DC plug would be easier if you already have selected the receptacle or jack. P5 DC barrel plug is considered as one of the most common options with 5.5 mm OD, 2.1 mm ID and 9.5 mm L.
Apart from the DC plug, it is important that you make sure that DC cords fulfill your requirements. What length would you need to make it reach to your product? What is the desired appearance and does your cord match with it? Consider that modifying the DC cord can change efficiency as well as applicable safety regulations.
4. Efficiency and safety standards
The requirements of your end market where you are going to implement your system is worth considering. Efficiency standards vary from country to country; in some countries, the energy that may be wasted by external power supplies can be regulated. Just as with efficiency standards, safety standards are equally important to ensure that you consider and follow all requirements for the adapter according to the end application.
5. Agency marks
Agency mark requirements vary from country to country, as some require unique testing according to their country. So, to get some country-specific certifications, you may need to do specialized designs and tests.
6. Electromagnetic interference and compatibility
It is also necessary for many electronic products to meet the regulatory requirements for Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) if you want to sell them. These regulatory requirements are imperative to make sure that the proper operation of other products will not be affected or interfered with by your product, and in the same way, other products will not affect the proper operation of your product. So, make sure that your system has tested and certified power supply.
7. System integration and branding
Another important point to consider for selecting external power supplies is the aesthetic integration of your adapter with your system. Do not let your adapter make your customer think about the decision of buying your product, especially when you have worked hard enough to give your product the desired look and improved it to provide a better experience to your client. A black adapter may not go well with your product if you have intentionally designed the case or packaging with a particular color. It is important to think about the texture, package and color of the product and adapter. Also, consider adding your logo to the power supply.
Conclusion
It is not a difficult task to select a power supply for a new product, but the evaluation and selection process may be affected by some subtle issues that you face. The above-mentioned key points will help in selecting a power supply that not only guarantees the proper support to the operation of your product but will help in choosing a power supply that increases the value of your product and improves customer experience.
