FRIWO | UK
Apart from the top printing, structurally from the outside they are identical, however the internal architecture is significantly different!
So what is the difference between a Power Supply and a Charger?
A common question with a not too common answer, but something that is important to get right for your application.
If we ask the experts in the Dictionary Corner they would say….
Power Supply – noun – a device providing power to electronic equipment
Charger – noun – an apparatus that charges storage Batteries
In short - a Power Supply is intended to provide a constant voltage to static applications, whereas a Charger is designed to provide a continuously regulated current to mobile devices, which have an integrated Battery.
Fun fact!
Your Phone “Charger” is not what you may think….more on this later…
When do I need a Power Supply?
If you have a stationary application or hand held device which requires regulated power in order to function, then a Power Supply is what you need. The purpose of a Standard AC/DC Power Supply is to safely convert electrical current, from a mains source, to the applications correct output voltage and current.
When sourcing a Power Supply, it is crucial that it meets all up to date legislations and approvals and offers:
Overcurrent Protection – Protection against excessive current that would cause overheating of the equipment. The more the current increases through the Power Supply, the less time it takes for the tripping feature to come into play.
Overvoltage Protection – Automatic shut down or trip, should the voltage surpass designed limit. Overvoltage protection is in place to prevent/protect component destruction.
These factors are essential for all Power Supplies, but more so in medically graded units.
NEO6 Medical
When using a Power Supply in a Medical environment, the patient and carers safety has to be at the forefront. That is why, the FRIWO Medical Grade Power Supply is perfect for use with sensitive medical applications, in harsh conditions and incorporates:
• Minimal leakage current - ≤10 µA
• 2 X MOPP (Means of Patient Protection)
• IP42 approved double sealed housing
• IEC 60601-1-2 4th Edition Medical
• DOE Efficiency Standards
When do I need a Charger?
Chargers are for use with mobile applications that are fitted with rechargeable Battery Packs.
Battery packs can consist of several chemistries that offer different performances depending on the application, such as energy density and output voltage.
For each of these battery chemistries you will need the mating charger with precise charge voltage and algorithm for the pack, we offer the following:
How do Chargers work?
A Charger essentially supplies the Battery(s) with a constant current, whilst following a charging protocol – how many cells the Battery is made up of, what type of Battery is being charged, the voltage and current required over a period of time and charge completion.
Some Chargers on the market are purely simple Chargers. These types of Chargers take much longer to recharge the Battery Packs within the device and will not alter the amount of power delivered to the Battery after the Battery is fully charged. Due to this, over charging can occur, leaving the Batteries weakened or permanently damaged.
FRIWO Chargers are designed to optimize and prolong the life of Battery Packs, by incorporating sophisticated charge termination.
Fun fact Continued:
"Pass me my Phone Charger”…… A misconception that we are all guilty of!
Your USB Smart Phone Charger is actually a Power Supply! As it designed to give a constant output, your Phone actually does all the charge control.
This is designed to offer flexibility so your phone can be plugged into any USB port, on your PC for example.
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