1
\$\begingroup\$

I want to supply some voltage regulators (12V, 5V and 3.3V) with one of two power sources: one wall power-supply and/or a LiPo-pack. The input voltage would be in the range of 10V-24V and a continous power draw of ~50W is expected. It should be always powered by either the external power-supply or the batteries.

If one of those power-sources fails (due to unplugging, etc.) it needs to switch to the other one.

Some problems I can think of are:

  1. Schottky-diodes generate too much heat with my power requirements and I don't want to rely on active cooling.
  2. Are there special requirements for the circuitry (e.g. can I build it on a protoboard w/o problems)?

How would best go about this given these requirements?

\$\endgroup\$
1

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2
\$\begingroup\$

An "ideal diode", such as the LTC4412, may be what you are looking for. They use FETs for switching so can handle plenty of current without too much heat.

\$\endgroup\$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.