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What is a DC to DC Converter Used for & How Does it Work?

Looking to convert one DC voltage to another? This is actually more commonplace than you may realize - and it requires the use of a specialized DC-DC converter.

Wait - what is a DC to DC converter? And what are they used for? How do they work? You have questions and we've got the answers. Today, we'll cover all this and a whole lot more. You'll learn everything there is to know about these converters - including the different types on the market, and how to choose one for your unique application. We'll even explain where you can find efficient, reliable DC-DC converters no matter the use-case.

Let's get started with the first question at hand today...what is a DC to DC converter in the first place?

What is a DC to DC Converter? 

A DC to DC converter is an electronic device that converts direct current (DC) from one voltage level to another. They are also known as DC-DC converters or DC/DC converters.  These converters can be used to increase or decrease the voltage level. The most common type is the step-down converter, which takes a higher DC voltage and converts it to a lower one - but there are also step-up converters that do the reverse.

There are multiple uses for DC to DC converters. They can be used in electronic devices like cell phones and laptops where different voltages are required for different components. For example, a laptop typically requires 19 volts to charge its battery but only 12 volts to run its display. A DC to DC converter steps down the 19 volts from the charger to 12 volts for the display. 

We'll take a deeper look at the use cases for these converters later on. First, let's explain how these work.

How Does a DC to DC Converter Work?

Connecting Power Supplies in Series vs Parallel: Which Approach is Best?

There will undoubtedly come a situation where a single power supply isn't going to cut it for you. You'll need to connect multiple power supplies together to reach your desired power output. And when the time comes, you'll have two approaches you can take: connecting power supplies in parallel or connecting power supplies in series. Which of these approaches makes the most sense for you, though? That's what we're here to answer today.

Bravo Electro is the premier ACDC power supply source in the industry. But we don't just have the products you need to get (and stay) up and running - we have the resources you need, too. We're here to demystify power supply and electric components so you can enjoy confidence and peace of mind in setting yours up. In this in-depth guide, you'll learn all about connecting power supplies together - we'll discuss the pros and cons of both the parallel and series connections, and help you make the right choice for your needs. By the end of this article, you'll know all there is to know about the power supply in series vs parallel debate.

We've got quite a bit to cover today, and don't want to waste any more of your time. So, let's start by discussing the cases in which you may need to connect multiple power supplies together.

Why Connect Power Supplies Together?

There are a few reasons you might need to connect multiple power supplies together. The first, and most obvious reason, is that you need more power output than what a single power supply can provide. Sure, you can get a more powerful power supply in some cases - but this isn't always feasible.

For example, let's say you're running

What is the Difference Between UL Listed vs UL Recognized Power Supplies

There are a few different important certifications for power supplies these days. ETL, 80 PLUS, and of course, UL. You may know that UL - short for Underwriters' Laboratories - is a universally trusted source for testing and evaluating products for safety. But one thing you may not know is what the difference between UL listed vs UL recognized power supplies is. Fortunately, that's exactly what we're going to cover in this in-depth blog post.

You'll learn why finding power supplies with the UL stamp of approval is so important in the first place. Then, we'll break down what UL listed and UL recognized mean, exactly. In doing so, we'll be able to compare and contrast them so you can gain clarity as to which one carries more weight - and which one you need for your unique needs. Then, we'll help you start your journey to finding UL-listed and UL-recognized power supplies online. Let's get started!

Who is the UL?

Before we can even get started talking about various ratings, we need to introduce the group we're talking about today. Underwriters' Laboratories (UL) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that has been around since 1894. They are dedicated to advancing public safety by helping to ensure that the products we use in our everyday lives meet their high standards for safety and quality.

In order to do this, UL evaluates products - ranging from power supplies to electric vehicles - against their rigorous set of standards. If a product meets all the necessary requirements, it will receive a UL certification. This is what lets consumers know that a product is safe to use.

Why Does it Matter if Power Supplies are UL Listed vs UL Recognized?

First things first - does it really matter if your products have been evaluated by the UL? Why do you need to get power supplies that have been tested by this group? And, why does the difference in ratings matter?

Well, for starters,

Different Types of LED Drivers Explained: Constant Power vs Constant Current vs Constant Voltage Power Supplies

Want to learn about the different types of LED drivers? You've come to the right place. In this in-depth article, we'll break down the unique intricacies between the three main types of LED drivers:

• Constant current  LED drivers
• Constant voltage LED drivers
• Constant power LED drivers

In the following paragraphs, you're going to learn which of these is best for you as we break down the use case for all three of these power supply styles. You'll also learn the purpose of LED drivers in general. And, towards the end, we'll point you in the right direction if you're on the hunt for efficient, reliable, and affordable power supplies - for any use. We've got a lot to cover, so let's dive in with the first question at hand. What are LED drivers in the first place, and why do you need one?

What is an LED Driver & Why do I Need One?

An LED driver is a power supply that regulates the voltage and current going to an LED. This is important because LEDs are very sensitive to too much or too little current and will burn out quickly if not given the proper amount of power. Drivers also protect your LEDs from things like power surges that can come through your electrical system.

Drivers are available in many different shapes and sizes. Some look like big black boxes, while others are small enough to fit on a circuit board. You can also find drivers that are meant to be installed in wet or damp locations. This is especially important for unique applications like indoor growing. These types of facilities rely on LED grow lights - and the power sources must be capable of withstanding humidity. but, LED drivers aren't just used in horticulture. You'll find these in your home, commercial buildings, medical facilities - you name it.

Most LEDs will come with a driver included, but there are also stand-alone drivers that can be used with any type or brand of LED. These are great for