Transformer vs SMPS in panels

[aechlin]

Hi all, just wondering why manufacturers still use transformers for the step down of AC to the panel instead of a SMPS that is as equally as powerful as a transformer, and possibly gives off less heat (product of inefficiency). There must be a reason, anyone know?

 

Cheers

 

Al

[MrHappy]

depends what controls you by ?

[sixwheeledbeast]

They are simpler to manufacturer and integrate.

Many later models have switched

[aechlin]

1 hour ago, sixwheeledbeast said:

They are simpler to manufacturer and integrate.

Many later models have switched

Just seems odd. Years ago, simple way of stepping down the mains voltage, but copper has become more and more expensive to produce and manipulate. China is knocking the switch modes out left right and centre on possibly a far cheaper scale. Its happened with Christmas light strings, used to be transformers, older computer psu's are all SMPS now. Alarm panel manufactures still sticking with transformers - must be because they have a very good life expectancy....

 

[james.wilson]

45 minutes ago, aechlin said:

Just seems odd. Years ago, simple way of stepping down the mains voltage, but copper has become more and more expensive to produce and manipulate. China is knocking the switch modes out left right and centre on possibly a far cheaper scale. Its happened with Christmas light strings, used to be transformers, older computer psu's are all SMPS now. Alarm panel manufactures still sticking with transformers - must be because they have a very good life expectancy....

 

Not All do, 

if you want to name someone? 

[sixwheeledbeast]

Lights are applications that don't matter too much for stability they are unlikely to be switched mode more dropper style circuits.

Computer PSU's need to be very stable but are much larger and more expensive. Neither can be compared for the application of an alarm.

A poorly designed SMPS will be noisy and have poor efficiency at a low load for example, linear is much simpler to get smooth supply in a small package.

Linear can also have a better life expectancy due to the lower complexity but that is unlikely to be a huge concern in modern electronics... if you get 10 years out of it.

 

As I understand it Elmdene make many of the SMPS on behalf of panel manufacturers and even they have had issues during the design process.

As much as copper has increased so have costs for other components and materials relative. You also may have to get your product you have been selling for years re-tested for sale in the market this all adds cost.

There are as always two sides to the story.

 

[al-yeti]

11 hours ago, james.wilson said:

Not All do, 

if you want to name someone? 

Doesn't the enforcer use it? 

Just now, al-yeti said:

Doesn't the enforcer use it? 

Dimension? Galaxy range 

[james.wilson]

most modern stuff i know uses switch mode, I was wondering who doesn't?

[MrHappy]

stuff which passes though my hands w/o

 

9448+

veritas

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Syncro AS

[james.wilson]

older panels I suppose.