Switching regulator offers less power loss thanks to pin-to-pin replacement for LDOs

Rutronik introduces the R-78K-0.5 series from RECOM, switching regulator modules that combine all the advantages of a switching regulator, including high efficiency, a wide input range, and precise output voltage regulation. Additionally, they offer a lower price. Thanks to the high efficiency of the R-78K-0.5, which reaches up to 96%, no heat sink is required, and operation under full load is possible within an operating temperature range of -40C to +90C. The compact TO-220-compatible SIP3 housing is extremely space-saving at only 11.5mm x 7.55mm x 10.2mm.

With the new, non-isolated DC-DC switching regulators of the series, the company offers a direct replacement for the lossy standard linear regulators of the LM78 series. Accordingly, the series with rated currents of 0.5A, 1A and 2A, high efficiency and compact dimensions quickly became the industry standard. The advanced R-78K version offers a wider input voltage range of up to 36V, improved efficiency of up to 96%, and additional output options ranging from 1.5VDC to 36V. The operating temperature is now up to +90C without derating. The 0.5A and 1A versions also feature smaller housings and lower weight.

The series is an optimal pin-to-pin replacement for an LDO. Unlike the K series, an LDO cannot convert voltage; instead, it divides the voltage into the desired output voltage and the unused voltage. The unused voltage results in power loss due to the current provided by the output voltage. Thanks to its high efficiency of 96%, the R-78K-0.5 significantly reduces this, thereby improving the overall application's efficiency.

Typical applications include the IIoT, the Internet of Everything, advanced robotics, Industry 4.0, automation, energy, biotechnology, medical, transportation, logistics, and supply chain management.