Technical Features

    January 2021
    Transformer Design Comparisons for Mitigating EMI in Gate Driver Circuits

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1: Gate driver circuit diagram with a Bourns transformer

    While gate driver-based converters deliver improved efficiency, speed and signal integrity, their high frequency switching features can produce elevated levels of conducted electromagnetic interference (EMI), posing challenges to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and overall system reliability. To solve this
    Date:
    03/29/2026
    Innovating Power Delivery Networks
    Every electronic piece of equipment or system has a power delivery network (PDN) made up of cables, bus bars, connectors, circuit board copper power planes and AC-to-DC and DC-to-DC converters and regulators. Governing the performance of a PDN is its overall architecture, such as the use of AC or DC voltage di
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/28/2021
    Impact of UnitedSiC Gen 4 Technology on Electric Vehicles

    Table 1: Comparison of parameters for G4 750V SiC FETs with similar 650V SiC MOSFETs and 600V Superjunction fast diode FETs

    The automotive market for Silicon Carbide (SiC) devices is widely expected to exceed the $1.5 billion threshold in 2025 with an annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38 percent. This is driven by the value provided by SiC based components in On-board chargers, DC-DC converters and in Traction inverters. With the launch of
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/05/2021
    DC/DC Supply Sources and Sinks Current from 5 to 24V Input

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1. Electrical schematic of bipolar, bidirectional, 2-terminal power supply: VIN = 5 V to 24 V, VOUT = ±10 V at 3 A

    Most electronic systems depend on power voltage rails that are either positive or negative, but a few applications require individual rails that can be both. In these situations, positive or negative power is supplied by the same terminal—that is, the output voltage of the supply can be adjusted through its en
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    The Evolution of USB Type C in Power-Only Applications
    Introduced in 2014, USB Type C is the latest physical standard, well-recognized for its simplified, bi-directional package, higher data rates, and greater power delivery. As has already been alluded to, USB connectors are defined by these three different, yet related standards: the physical connector, data transmission pr
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    How to Choose the Optimal Smart Handheld Gage

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1: Today’s smart hand tools provide information for machine control and inform the operator of part quality with tolerance indication

    In manufacturing, it makes perfect sense to maximize the value of every dollar, but it also means hard choices must be made when selecting handheld gages. For example, myriad issues such as training, warranties, throughput requirements, manufacturing methods and materials, the end-use of the workpiece, and general co
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    USB Type-C Power Management Design for Portable Devices

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1: O-Ring Circuit

    Among the many benefits of USB Type-C connectors are their small size, easy-to-use features, and versatility. USB Type-C (also called USB-C) can support multiple protocols, such as USB 3.1, DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB PD. The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) released guidelines for USB Type-C called USB Type-C Ca
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    Fast Charging: A Critical Enabler of EV Adoption

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1: AC and DC EV charging

    The world’s automobile manufacturers are responding to ever stricter emissions regulations by increasing the proportion of electric vehicles (EVs) in their ranges. Global EV sales have surged in recent years and data from 2020[i] suggests that EVs are beginning to take market share from traditional, internal
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    Space-Saving Connectors for Automotive Electronics

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1: Connector solutions such as SMC, MiniBridge and MaxiBridge are installed in many inverters or battery management systems of hybrid vehicles

    Particularly in the automotive industry, very high demands are placed on connections. In harsh and often near-engine environments, connector systems must not only be as compact as possible, but must also exhibit high vibration resistance, robustness, temperature resistance, high current carrying capacity and ea
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    VIGIL: Pioneering V2G Technology for a Greener Tomorrow

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1: VIGIL Project 1 - Charge post charging vehicle at Aston University test site

    Enabling EVs to return energy to the power grid when parked and plugged for charging, will increase grid resilience, allow for better exploitation of renewable sources and lower the cost of ownership for EV owners – leading to new business opportunities and clear advantages for EV users and energy consumers.  VIGIL was backe
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    Driving LEDs for Automotive Lighting Solutions
    Automotive lighting is undergoing a fundamental change as more lighting solutions (both interior and exterior) shift from conventional bulbs to light emitting diodes (LEDs). LEDs present unique challenges in automotive applications, but they also promise unique advantages and possibilities. While driving LEDs re
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    Common Driver Platform for 12V and 48V Systems

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1: Starter generator and eBoost locations in an electrified vehicle

    Starter generator systems play multiple roles in electrified vehicle architectures. They are responsible for starting the engine, supplying electrical boost to the engine, and generating charge voltage during deceleration or coasting, which reduces wear on mechanical braking systems while improving overall system ef
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    The Right TVS Devices for ''Load Dump'' Auto Applications

    Click image to enlarge

    Figure 1. Automotive applications are prone to transient and surge conditions

    Protecting downstream automotive electronic system content vulnerable to “load dump” conditions is a major challenge in this market. Automotive systems require transient voltage suppressor (TVS) devices capable of shunting high-energy transients safely away from electronic circuits. In addition to se
    . . . Learn More
    Date:
    01/04/2021
    Archive

    Transformer Design Comparisons for Mitigating EMI in Gate Driver Circuits

    Mar 29,2026
    Matthew Russell, Master’s student at University College Cork, and a student engineer at Bourns Electronics Ireland

    1250 V/1700 V GaN HEMTs for NVIDIA 800 VDC Architecture

    Jan 31,2026
    Kamal Varadarajan & Chris Lee, Power Integrations

    Future-Proof Automotive High-Voltage-to-SELV Conversion

    Dec 30,2025
    Greg Green, Director of Automotive Marketing, Vicor

    Power Systems Design

    146 Charles Street
    Annapolis, Maryland 21401 USA

    Power Systems Design

    Power Systems Design is a leading global media platform serving the power electronics design engineering community. It delivers in-depth technical content, industry news, and product insights to engineers and decision-makers developing advanced power systems and technologies.

    Published 12× per year across North America and Europe, Power Systems Design is distributed through online and fully digital editions, complemented by eNewsletters, webinars, and multimedia content. The platform covers key areas including power conversion, semiconductors, renewable energy, automotive electrification, AI power systems, and industrial applications—supporting innovation across the global electronics industry.