APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS

**Definition:** This place covers:

Only circuits or apparatus for the conversion of AC or DC input power into AC or DC output power, or the conversion of AC or DC input power into surge output power, or arrangements for control or regulation of such circuits or apparatus.

**Limiting references (this place does not cover):** - Transformers -> H01F - Dynamo-electric converters -> H02K47/00 - Controlling transformers, reactors or choke coils, control or regulation of electric motors, generators or dynamo-electric converters -> H02P

**Glossary:** - SMPS: Switch Mode Power Supply. A general designation for the type of power converters where power is converted in small quantities at a very rapid pace. The energy entering into the conversion circuit or out of the conversion circuit is controlled by power switches. In an SMPS the power switches are typically operated either to be fully conducting or fully non-conducting, opposite to linear voltage regulators where the power switch is used as partly conductive. - Chopper: Chopper is another name for a switch mode circuit. Chopper refers to that the signal (energy flow) is cut-up into small amounts. - Conversion: In respect of an electric variable, e.g. voltage or current, conversion means the change of one or more of the parameters of the variable, e.g. amplitude, frequency, phase, polarity. - PFC: Power Factor Correction. PFC relates to AC power input. Power Factor Correction is the discipline of rendering the input current sine-wave-shaped, with little harmonics and in phase with the AC input voltage. The aim is to make the AC input power load appear purely resistive for efficient use of the AC distribution network. - Snubber: A circuit aiming at absorbing or redirecting inductive energy generated during switched power conversion when a power switch is turned off (rendered non-conductive).