Switched-Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) are widely used in various electronic devices and systems, ranging from consumer electronics to industrial applications. These power supplies rely on a range of electronic components to ensure efficient and reliable power conversion. Among these components, resistors play a critical role in SMPS operation and performance. This blog presents the significance of resistors in SMPS and delves into the key insights provided by the application note titled “Understanding the Importance of Resistive Components in a Switched-Mode Power Supply”.

Understanding the Basics of SMPS

Before we dive into the details, let’s briefly review the fundamentals of SMPS. A Switched-Mode power supply converts electrical power from one form to another through the use of switching devices (typically transistors) that rapidly switch between conducting and non-conducting states. This switching action allows for efficient power conversion and regulation, enabling SMPS to provide stable DC voltages at varying load conditions.

Providing a Foundation for SMPS Operation

Resistors are passive electronic components that regulate current flow and voltage levels in electronic circuits. As highlighted in the aforementioned Bourns application note, resistors provide the following functions in an SMPS:

1. Voltage Dividers and Feedback Networks: Resistors are frequently used in voltage dividers and feedback networks to establish reference voltages, regulate feedback signals, and ensure stable operation of SMPS controllers. These resistive networks contribute to the accurate monitoring and control of output voltages and currents, ultimately helping to improve the overall performance and reliability of the power supply.
2. Current Sensing and Limiting: Resistors with low resistance values are employed as current-sensing elements in SMPS. By measuring the voltage drop across these resistors, the control circuitry can accurately sense and regulate the output current. Additionally, resistors can be used in combination with other components to provide overcurrent protection, preventing damage to the power supply and connected devices.
3. Snubber Circuits: Switching transistors in an SMPS can generate high-frequency noise and voltage spikes. To mitigate these undesirable effects, snubber circuits are employed. Resistors, in conjunction with capacitors, are used to design snubber networks that suppress voltage transients and protect sensitive components from voltage spikes, thus enhancing the longevity and reliability of the power supply.
4. Filtering and Damping: Resistors are integral to filtering and damping functions within an SMPS. They are used in conjunction with inductors and capacitors to construct filters that attenuate high-frequency noise, ripple and other disturbances, helping to ensure the clean power delivery to the load.
5. Start-Up and Soft-Start Mechanisms: During start-up, the circuits in an SMPS often employ resistors to control the charging and discharging of capacitors, establish timing delays, and implement soft-start mechanisms. Soft-start circuits gradually ramp up the output voltage to prevent inrush current and voltage overshoot, reducing stress on components and increasing the lifespan of the power supply.

Crucial Role of Resistors

The “Understanding the Importance of Resistive Components in SMPS” application note provides additional details about the crucial role played by resistors in the operation and performance of Switched-Mode power supplies. From voltage regulation and current sensing to snubber circuits and soft-start mechanisms, resistors enable precise control, stability and protection in SMPS designs. By understanding the significance of resistors and their various functions in an SMPS, engineers and designers can make informed choices when selecting these required components. Doing so will help them optimize the overall performance and reliability of their SMPS design. To learn more, you are invited to read the application note.