Power Supply for IC

buckcurrentduty cyclepower supply

I am thinking about utilizing a step-down regulator chip for a synchronous buck converter. I figured a basic laptop power supply would work for this (fit some connectors on it). I have done the simulations utilizing a 12v DC supply for the chip. At max duty cycle (99%), the input current pulls just under 6 amps. Does this mean I would need a 12V 6A supply? Application is battery charging, so I'm using it to produce a consistent output current. Just a bit confused, know basic buck theory but not as familiar with chips.

Thanks

Best Answer

4.2 * 5 = 21 Watts. Bump that up by 20% to account for loss. So you need at least 25 Watts. Make sure you read all the fine print about cooling and temperature de-rating, etc for the supply. Your 12V 6A supply is 72W, so that is more than enough if you want to go that way. Another option is to use one of those laptop power supplies. They are usually around 20V and 45 W or more. It may not be optimal to buck down from such a high voltage. Look at the efficiency under those conditions to see if it will work for you.