Power Factor Correction (PFC) in China-Sourced Chargers
1 resources tagged with "Pfc"
Power factor correction shapes input current to match voltage, and it matters in GaN charger and power-supply designs sourced from China, especially above the ~75W threshold where IEC 61000-3-2 harmonic limits apply. GaN charger ICs from Navitas, Innoscience, and Power Integrations integrate PFC and quasi-resonant flyback control to hit USB PD 3.1 EPR power levels while keeping the BOM small. For OEM builds, PFC topology choice directly affects efficiency rating and UL 62368-1 compliance.
When you spec a charger above ~75W, active PFC is usually required to meet harmonic regulations and energy-efficiency marks. The common pitfall is a factory quoting a cheaper non-PFC reference design that fails EU/US efficiency and emissions tests.
Wiki (1)
FAQ
When is PFC required in a power supply?
Under IEC 61000-3-2, active PFC is generally needed for equipment drawing more than about 75W to limit current harmonics. Below that, simpler topologies usually pass.
Does PFC affect charger certification cost?
Yes — PFC designs add a control stage that must be validated for UL 62368-1 and EMC, but they are what let the unit pass harmonic and efficiency requirements. Budget for EMC pre-scan during development.
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