Switched-Mode Power Supplies

[David]

Hi all,
I have managed to bag my first ever electronics engineer interview next week  and one of the areas that came up in the job role was switched-mode power supplies. I understand the basic principles but have never had any direct involvement with the design of such devices. I am sure I will know a lot more by the time of the interview (in case it comes up) but has anyone got any useful tips/information on the subject?

Dave

[EEVblog]

Funny that, I was just contemplating doing a very quick blog on switched mode power supplies and how they differ (not so much) from linear supplies, as a filler unti lI get my butt into gear and finish the meter shootout.
Doesn't mean I will, but it's on the tip of my tongue...

Dave.

[David]

That would be great if you did! Pretty please?  As far as I am aware the main disadvantage of linear supplies is the loses caused through dissipation of the excess power.

[Strube09]

Dave,

If you do this blog I would like to see some information regarding the feedback loops and stability issues with some switchers due to phase and gain responses of these loops.

Maybe a bit much for a basic switcher blog but just and idea.

Thanks

[David]

Anything on power factor correction would also be appreciated!

[Zad]

It depends how deeply you are going to be going into PSUs. As in intro level job, I would expect it to be more about designing SMPSUs around existing commercial devices rather than rolling your own. People like ti.com and linear.com have loads of data sheets and app notes that it would be good to read. That way you get familiar of what is available on the market, what the limitations and costs are etc.

[Strube09]

Ditto on the PFC.

[EEVblog]

The idea for this was just to show beginners that switchers aren't that mysterious, and are actually are lot more similar to linear regs than you might imagine.
No PFC or stability stuff, although stability might be mentioned.
Was going to film it this morning before work, but have run out of time, so probably tomorrow morning.

Dave.