Off-the-shelf Power Supplies Simplify System Design

Some system designers believe that power supplies are simple building blocks that can be easily designed and built cost-effectively using component manufacturer’s app notes after the intended system is ready. However, designing and building a high-performance AC/DC or DC/DC converter with full safety and EMC compliance requires expertise. Apart from an understanding of power circuits, components, and topologies, the system designer must also have a thorough knowledge of PCB layout, packaging, and test & measurement tools. Plus, the in-house design team must also know all the required safety and compliance procedures, including costs, fees, and time required for obtaining agency approvals specific to power supplies—such as for medical, railway, automotive, lighting, and industrial markets.

Building reliable, high-performance power supplies in-house can become more complicated and expensive than expected, especially with limited resources. Purchasing a plug-and-play, off-the-shelf converter from a qualified manufacturer can be a cost-saving and time-efficient option.

There are many benefits to buying an off-the-shelf, plug-and-play power supply from a reliable manufacturer. Unlike in-house designs, off-the-shelf PSUs are already tested, qualified, and certified to international safety and EMI standards. Purchasing a pre-certified converter from a supplier like RECOM means receiving AC/DC and DC/DC converters with verified performance and reliability.

Consider today’s AC/DC and DC/DC power supplies. Each target market imposes specific regulations, and staying current with revisions is challenging for non-specialists. For example, IEC 60601-1 for medical devices has seen several updates in recent years. The same applies to applications in railways, lighting, automation, test & measurement, IoT, and defense. An experienced power supply manufacturer like RECOM can provide solutions that are already compliant—saving engineering time and reducing certification risk.

RECOM’s AC/DC and DC/DC converters come with the required safety, reliability, and certification for diverse applications, saving both time and cost. With over four decades of experience, RECOM offers a wide portfolio of high-power plug-and-play converters—supporting single-phase AC input, three-phase AC input, or DC input, with high power density and output ratings from 1W up to 20kW.

Take the RACM1200-V series as an example. Designed with safety and certification in mind, it sets a benchmark for compact, fanless power supplies. A specialized baseplate allows up to 1000W continuous output. The unit includes two extra outputs—an adjustable 12V system fan output and a 5V/1A standby output—eliminating the need for auxiliary supplies in some systems. Thanks to its 4kVAC insulation strength between input and output, the RACM1200-V is suitable for various applications, including chargers, LED lighting, laser systems, analytical equipment, high-frequency devices, robotics, and medical equipment with patient contact.

For cost- or space-sensitive designs, RECOM also offers compact open-frame and potted AC/DC power supplies for low-power applications under 230W. With 90–264VAC wide input range and typical 90% efficiency, these modules suit a variety of projects. Multiple mounting options simplify mechanical integration. Some engineers prefer custom-built power supplies when they need special voltage levels or non-standard features. Others assume it’s cheaper to build than buy.

However, RECOM, as a manufacturer—not just a distributor—can provide custom or semi-custom solutions when needed, or match your spec from over 30,000 available standard products. Even when BoM cost is lower for in-house designs, total cost of ownership (TCO) is often higher. Supply chain management, certification, testing, engineering labor, and launch delays can easily outweigh the price difference—making off-the-shelf options the more efficient choice.

RECOM is your 1-stop shop for off-the-shelf AC/DC and DC/DC power supplies. With a broad selection of certified, plug-and-play solutions, RECOM supports faster development, reliable compliance, and reduced time-to-market.