Virtually all electronic device, board, and system design is predicated on the ability to convert an often fixed input power source to match the requirements for one or more load circuits. The essential functionality is typically performed by a linear or switched-mode power supply (SMPS) circuit. For SMPSs, a key decision is what type of converter to employ.
By far, the most implemented component in these cases is the metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET). Deciding which of these components is the best choice for your power MOSFET design can seem overwhelming. However, with Toshiba’s Online Circuit Simulator, you can ensure that your performance objectives are satisfied and your design process is efficient.
Best MOSFET Circuit Simulator Online Attributes
Choosing the best power circuit simulator tool is as important to your SMPS design process as selecting the best power MOSFET is to your circuit’s functionality and performance. Essential attributes to help you make the best choice are described below.
SMPS MOSFET Circuit Simulator Online Essentials | |
Attribute | Importance |
Comprehensive component library | The range of power MOSFET and passive component support options must be extensive and scalable. |
Accurate SMPS circuit CAD models | Simulation model options should include common converter architectures used in SMPS design. |
Separate AC and DC voltage specification | Separate AC and DC parameter specification and analysis enable more accurate modeling. |
Analysis model options | Simulation mode options provide greater control over process efficiency. |
Intuitive/easy to navigate user interface (UI) | Usability is directly proportional to process efficiency. |
Results comparison functionality | The value of any simulation model is measured by the accuracy and usability of the results. |
Data export capability | Data format and ease of exportation are critical elements for design efficiency optimization. |
Cost effectiveness | The volatility and uncontrollability of component pricing necessitate that designers seek to minimize the negative impact of design tool utilization on design ROI. |
Understanding the attributes above is important. However, finding a MOSFET power circuit simulator online tool that meets these essentials is not easy to do. Fortunately, one of the electronics component industry’s leaders, Toshiba, provides an online tool to help engineers solve the MOSFET selection challenges of creating the best SMPS design.
Toshiba’s SMPS MOSFET Online Simulation Solution
Toshiba’s online MOSFET selector tool eliminates the need for engineers and designers to research, compare and evaluate multiple software programs before settling on a tool that meets their needs. The tool is developed to make the simulation process easily navigable while providing the results needed to verify design performance at the initial stages of design and development. Key features of the tool are its simple input specification, options for simulation mode selection, and multiple graphical results for analyses.
Simple Input Specification
The input specification and device selection feature is simple. Designers can specify input and output voltage, output power, and switching frequency directly or using a handy slide bar. As parameters are defined, the list of MOSFETs narrows to only devices that meet the designers’ specs, as shown below.
The desired SMPS topology from a set of common architectures, including half and full-bridge, flyback, and others, is also chosen at this stage.
Simulation Mode Selection Options
Selecting and running a simulation is also easy. as shown below.
By choosing Fast mode, a quick process overview can be obtained. For a more detailed analysis, the Accurate mode should be selected, and it is possible to confirm the calculated efficiency. As shown above, passives and other necessary support components are included in the model. The circuit parameters can also be changed as required.
Various Graphical Simulation Results
As shown above, simulation results are displayed graphically as waveforms for quick inspection or detailed evaluation. Toshiba’s online circuit simulator also allows designers to open multiple waveforms for easy comparison, including simulations with multiple parametric settings.
Optimizing Your SMPS Design
As described above, Toshiba’s Online Circuit Simulator significantly simplifies the sometimes tedious process of determining the right converter design for your SMPS application. In addition to being easy and intuitive to use, the tool is readily accessible. Once you have satisfied the performance objectives for your MOSFET selection, you must ensure that your SMPS circuit CAD models are accurate. The best source for this validation is the electronic component industry leader for accurate manufacturer-vetted schematic symbols, circuit board footprints, and 3D model formats, Ultra Librarian.
If you’re looking for CAD models for common components or important design information to optimize the effectiveness of your MOSFET circuit simulator online tool usage, Ultra Librarian helps by compiling all your sourcing and CAD information in one place.
Working with Ultra Librarian sets up your team for success to ensure streamlined and error-free design, production, and sourcing. Register today for free.