Aimed at high power density, universal input AC-DC converters, the Power Integrations MinE-CAP IC significantly reduces the size of the high-voltage bulk electrolytic capacitors required in the offline power supplies used in compact chargers and adapters. The IC also reduces in-rush current making NTC thermistors unnecessary, increasing system efficiency and reducing heat dissipation.

Such devices are typically one of the limiting elements when it comes to the size of the chargers. Hence, the end product can be thinner without the worry of heat issues. At the end of the day, MinE-CAP saves space while increasing system efficiency.

The MinE-CAP leverages the small size and low RDSon of PowiGaN gallium nitride transistors to actively and automatically connect and disconnect segments of the bulk capacitor network depending on AC line voltage conditions. Another benefit is that MinE-CAP reduces the number of high-voltage storage components, and shields lower voltage capacitors from mains voltage swings. Housed in a miniature MinSOP-16A package, the devices are available immediately and are priced at $1.75 for lots of 10,000.