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The PSMA Power Technology Roadmap
P SMA released its latest Power Technology Roadmap (PTR) report during APEC 2011. Since beginning in 1994, this seventh version has evolved with time and technology, and includes an applications segment in addition to the power conversion technologies and components. The roadmap refers to this trifecta as "The PTR Cube" that consists of the following specific sub segments:

  • Products/technology: AC-DC front ends (Embedded AC-DC power supplies: 200 W - 2000 W), external power supplies for mobile applications (10 W - 100 W), isolated DC-DC converters (100 W regulated) and non-isolated DC-DC converters, also known as point of load converters or POLs.
  • Components: power semiconductors, power management ICs, magnetics, capacitors and packaging.
  • Applications: communications, computing, digital power, industrial, lighting, medical, military and solar PV inverters 

In addition to the above mentioned products/technology, the 2011 Roadmap also includes presentations and commentaries on the HVDC (high voltage DC) distribution architecture, smart grid, and PV (photovoltaic) solar inverters. Alternative energy and emerging technologies are expected to become integral parts of the future Power Technology Roadmaps.

A power supply is a multi-dimensional product; so the PTR also addresses various trends in a multi-dimensional fashion. Power supply users demand multiple parameters or features, such as high power density, efficiency or fast transient response with a lower price and smaller dimensions. Then it is up to the power supply manufacturers to develop technologies and assemble components suitable for specific applications with their own environmental and pricing constraints to develop products that provide these parameters and features. Though in many instances, it is a reactive response to the customers' need, many power supply companies can perceive these requirements and proactively incorporate them in their products. The 2011 Power Technology Roadmap captures these expected technology trends of the future and projects them in the future, till 2015.

Originally started in 1994 with a modest agenda and a three year interval, the Roadmap has evolved into an extensive presentation and document that provides an in-depth analysis of all the aspects of the power supplies. As mentioned before, these include power conversion technologies, components and the newly added applications' trends. The report is not designed to replace traditional market research reports, but rather is designed as an additional supplemental document that provides insight and a better understanding of the future  technology trends.

Importantly, all the presentations, analysis and conclusions were drawn from the combined effort of about 60 individuals who are well known participants in the industry. This was a team effort that provided a unique insight into the technology trends in a comprehensive way.
Aung Thet Tu of Fairchild Semiconductor® and co-chairman of Power Technology Roadmap Committee gave a presentation on the subject at the Plenary Session during APEC 2011.

Further information about the Power Technology Roadmap can be obtained by visiting: www.psma.com.

About PSMA

PSMA is an active organization consisting of power supply manufacturers, users, power component suppliers, academics, and consultants, interested in furthering the cause of the power supply industry. It is a non-profit, democratic, and participative organization, whose main and common goal is to enhance the stature of the power supply industry and provide education and information about this unique industry through published reports, educational seminars, technical workshops, and conference exhibits. PSMA provides leadership to the industry through its members, which include most major power supply companies. Web site: www.psma.com.

Provided by Mohan Mankikar,
President, Micro-Tech Consultants

  

The views expressed in this article are solely of Mohan Mankikar. They do not represent the views of PSMA. Mohan Mankikar has been a part of the power supply industry for over twenty five years. An active member of the PSMA since its founding, he had been a board member of the PSMA and currently serves on the Advisory Council.
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