Some of the basic parameters to consider when choosing a DC-DC converter for a medical application include its power supply requirements; input/output isolation and leakage current; means of protection; and several other key parameters.

The use cases for DC-DC converters span across a wide range of industries, from aerospace and military applications to commercial and industrial spaces. Regardless of the circuit topology of the DC-DC converter employed, there are basic parameters, certifications, and a level of ruggedization that designers must meet in order to qualify for the most stringent medical requirements.

Certifications and testing around medical applications for power supplies, or converters, are defined primarily by their isolation and leakage current. Both these parameters relate to the level of protection a patient will experience when in electrical contact with the power supply.

There are, however, also a myriad of other parameters to consider when choosing a DC-DC converter in order to ensure optimal performance over the lifetime of the device. This article dives into the certifications for medical-grade DC-DC converters and the basic parameters to look at when choosing these devices.

Read the full article at EE Times.

Featured image: A simple DC – DC converter board