Reducing Energy Consumed By Household Appliances

EE Times Current · 2 May 2023 · 16m

What this episode covers

Darrel Kingham, CEO of Cambridge-based startup Pulsiv, explains how their patented power electronics technology eliminates the need for PFC inductors in AC-to-DC conversion, thereby improving efficiency and reducing global energy waste. The technology achieves a flat efficiency profile across variable loads, making it particularly suitable for applications like dimmable LED lighting, data centers, and consumer electronics that spend significant time in standby or low-power modes. Kingham highlights that the solution also eliminates in-rush current, simplifying infrastructure requirements and reducing component costs by allowing designers to use simpler flyback topologies up to 180 watts instead of more complex LLC designs. The company is currently targeting the 250-watt range with reference designs to help manufacturers meet regulations like Energy Star and CEC at the lowest cost, while planning to expand into 600-watt and kilowatt ranges for EV charging using wide bandgap semiconductors.

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