New Standards Set in Powering IoT

Making everyday objects ‘smart’ by embedding electronics with sensors and actuators is central to IoT implementation, but these electronics require reliable power. While batteries and energy scavenging are viable in some scenarios, many applications—such as a web-connected boiler controller—are better served by tapping into the local AC mains.

An AC/DC converter is essential, but its design differs significantly from digital electronics like processors or WLAN transceivers. It requires high-frequency power switches, magnetics, and safety- and EMC-compliant construction. Agency-certified AC/DC modules from RECOM are a good solution, de-risking product development and accelerating time to market. Known for compact form factors and reliable performance, RECOM has further refined its portfolio with the RACxx-K series, offering smaller footprints and enhanced specifications.

For example, the RAC03-K series features a footprint under 1 inch², ‘universal’ 85 to 264VAC input, household and ITE certifications, and extremely low standby/no-load power consumption. Available output voltages range from 3.3V to 24V, rated at 3W. With its high efficiency, it operates at up to 60°C ambient or 80°C with derating. The RAC03-K complies with FCC and EN 55032 Class B EMC standards without requiring external components. It comes in both through-hole and SMT versions.

For greater power demands, the RACM06E series delivers 6W in the same 1 inch² footprint, maintaining full output up to 50°C. Higher power needs are met with the RAC10E-K/277, RAC15-K, RACM16E-K/277, RAC20-K, and RAC20NE-K/277 series—compact 2” x 1” modules rated at 10W to 20W, respectively, and supporting 85–264VAC input. Low voltage inputs from 24V up to 264VAC can be covered by using the RAC15-K/WI with a 1.5’’x3”” footprint on the same pinning as used with the 2”x1” parts.

In industrial IoT and lighting installations, three-phase AC mains often serve as the power source, requiring AC/DC modules to handle 480VAC (phase-to-phase) or 277VAC (phase-to-neutral) inputs. RECOM’s RAC05-K/480, RAC15-K/480, and RAC25-K/480 meet both scenarios with an ultra-wide 85–528VAC input and a stable full load output from -40°C to 60°C and up to 80°C or 90°C with power derating. RAC15-K/480 and RAC25-K/480 are available for up to 25 Watts power requirements.

Another solution is the RAC04NE-K/277, rated for 305VAC and offering a 6W peak power rating and operation up to 90°C with derating. It’s available in wired or pinout formats. Other high-voltage options include the low-profile, RAC03-K/277, a 3.5W module with an extra-high 4.2kVAC isolation rating. Most module series cover voltage ratings up to 305Vac and overvoltage category III.

RECOM’s latest AC/DC modules meet the diverse needs of IoT applications across home, industrial, and IT environments. They combine industry-leading performance, compact design, and cost efficiency—making them the ideal choice across a wide range of smart applications.