In the realm of medical AC/DC power supplies, meeting stringent regulatory standards is paramount. These supplies must not only meet basic performance metrics like voltage and current ratings but also adhere to complex requirements such as galvanic isolation and protection against leakage currents. Addressing these demands is crucial to ensuring the safety of patients and healthcare professionals.
XP Power, a leading manufacturer in this sector, exemplifies how GaN technology can significantly reduce the physical footprint of these power supplies. GaN devices offer lower resistance, faster switching times, and reduced losses compared to traditional silicon-based devices. This efficiency translates into smaller, cooler, and more reliable power supplies, which are essential in medical settings where space and thermal management are critical considerations.
The article delves into the specific design considerations for medical power supplies, including dynamic performance attributes, protection against overloads and short circuits, and compliance with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards. It emphasizes the importance of insulation and safety features to prevent risks associated with leakage currents that could potentially endanger patients.
Regulatory standards like IEC 60601-1 play a pivotal role in shaping the design and certification process of medical power supplies. These standards mandate stringent safety measures, such as the use of multiple layers of insulation and compliance with specific leakage current thresholds. The article discusses how XP Power’s products, such as the AQM200PS19 and AQM300PS48-C2 series, adhere to these standards while leveraging GaN technology to achieve compact form factors and high efficiency.
Moreover, the role of accredited test facilities like atsec in Sweden, Germany, and the USA is highlighted in the certification process under IEEE standards. These facilities play a critical role in ensuring that medical devices and their components, including power supplies, meet international regulatory requirements and quality standards.
