PI introduces two integrated offline switching ICs

Power Integrations (PI) has introduced two new Linkzero-AX products and a PI University introductory video course that explains how designers can achieve 0.00W of standby energy consumption.

Launched in October 2010, the Linkzero-AX integrated offline switching IC range now offers increased mains power output of up to 6.5W - double the maximum output of earlier members of the product range.

The expanded power range enables designers to utilise Linkzero-AX in a wider range of applications, including those with multiple auxiliary power functions, as is often the case in appliances, TVs and remotely controlled electronic lighting ballasts.

The Linkzero-AX eliminates wasted energy by employing a power-down mode that effectively turns off the auxiliary power supply when the application is idle, shutting down switch-mode operation and internal switch control circuits.

The Linkzero-AX can be reawakened from power-down mode with a reset pulse or a button press.

Also, the bypass pin can provide up to 500uA for use by any system control or sensing circuit.

Key features of the Linkzero-AX range, including the special power-down mode, are described in the free-to-download PI University video course.

The video also discusses how to handle transient load conditions and wake-up requirements and how to deliver power to auxiliary outputs (such as infrared receivers) during power-down mode.

'Extending the power range of Linkzero-AX to 6.5W means that appliance applications that require multiple auxiliary power functions can now achieve zero no-load,' said Silvestro Fimiani, product marketing manager at PI.

Auxiliary power supplies continuously draw power as long as the product is plugged in, typically resulting in significant standby energy waste.

Linkzero-AX ICs can reduce this usage to 3mW - low enough to be considered 'zero' under IEC standards.

Linkzero-AX is a simple design upgrade and allows designers to exceed all energy-efficiency regulations, including the European Ecodesign Directive and the Energy Star.

The ICs are available now in SO-8C or SMD-8C packages priced at USD0.41 each for 10,000-piece quantities (LNK586DG).

Back to top