Next-gen dc switching regulators handle up to 1 A with 96% efficiency

CUI’s Power Group today announced the addition of four new series to its family of non-isolated dc switching regulators. The next generation VX78‑500, VXO78‑500, VX78‑1000, and VXO78‑1000 series are extremely efficient, typically up to 96%, and balance maximizing economy while delivering a high level of performance as a direct alternative to using linear regulators. Utilizing switching technology, the models are footprint compatible with TO-220 package LM78XX and LM79XX model regulators and unlike linear regulators, do not require a heat sink. This makes them ideal for use in portable devices, battery-fed equipment, and embedded designs where board space is at a premium and energy efficiency is a concern.

The encapsulated VX78 series and open frame VXO78 series, suited for positive or negative output applications, both offer 500 mA and 1 A output current options and have no-load input currents as low as 0.2 mA. Packaged in an ultra-compact, 3 pin SIP footprint, the encapsulated models measure just 0.45 x 0.29 x 0.40 in (11.60 x 7.55 x 10.16 mm), while the open frame models have even smaller dimensions of 0.39 x 0.28 x 0.43 in (10.00 x 7.20 x 11.00 mm).

The 500 mA series accept a wide range of input voltages up to 4.75 to 36 Vdc, while the 1 A series accommodate input voltage ranges up to 6 to 36 Vdc. Nominal output voltages of 3.3, 5, 9, 12, or 15 Vdc, are also available depending upon the series. Operating temperatures for all models range from ‑40 up to +71°C at full load, derating to 60% load at +85°C.

These non-isolated dc‑dc converters also feature low ripple and noise, continuous short circuit protection, and UL 60950‑1 and CSA safety certifications, along with the CE mark. All models carry a minimum MTBF of 2,000,000 hours at +25°C ambient, calculated per MIL‑HDBK‑217F.

The VX78-500, VXO78-500, VX78-1000, and VXO78-1000 series are available immediately with prices starting at $2.09 per unit at 100 pieces through distribution.