Feature: Power supplies
While semiconductor manufacturing is
one of the most demanding applications, many others also require uninterrupted DC power to ensure process integrity and system dependability. Ageing and burn-in test systems also
require non-stop operation. Although an outage doesn’t physically damage the test specimens, any pause in a long-term test lasting weeks or months invalidates the results and is, therefore, unacceptable. Similarly, machine tools such as laser-
based metal processing systems musn’t fail unexpectedly mid-process. Uncontrolled shutdowns may result in mechanical damage or even destruction of costly laser sources. Here, redundant power supply systems provide reliable energy delivery within a highly compact form factor.
Redundant power platforms Modular redundant DC power architectures are typically realised using rack-based systems that support parallel operation, fault isolation and system
monitoring. Key considerations include current sharing, decoupling methods, fault detection and maintaining operation during module replacement. One example is the use of 1U modular
power supplies, such as TDK-Lambda’s HFE series (Figure 1), with nominal output voltages of 12V, 24V, 32V and 4V. In these systems multiple modules operate in parallel to enable n+1 redundancy, requiring controlled load sharing to ensure balanced operation. Active current sharing improves load distribution and thermal performance, while digital interfaces such as I²C with PMBus and Ethernet via SNMP provide continuous monitoring. Active FET-based output decoupling isolates faulty modules in the event of a failure, preventing disturbance to the DC bus. Combined with hot-plug capability,
this approach allows any of the 1600W, 2500W or the recently-released 3500W HFE modules to be replaced without interrupting system operation.
Engineering resilience in power systems It is obvious that as industrial systems continue to increase in complexity and power density, uncontrolled interruptions become intolerable. Guaranteeing resilience, however, requires a more nuanced approach than merely adding redundancy at a component level. It requires system- level strategies which consider failure modes, load sharing, protection mechanisms and monitoring. Ultimately, DC power resilience
should be considered as a core design parameter rather than an aſterthought. Modular, scalable DC power architectures underpinned by equipment such as TDK’s HFE series enable engineers to design fault tolerance into systems from the outset, reducing both operational risk and long-term system complexity. In doing so, engineers can support uptime and protect against any risk.
Neutronics ELECTRONIC
w w w . n e u t r o n i c s - u k . c o m SERVICE ENGINEER
Neutronics NE Ltd offer an exciting opportunity to join an existing team of professional Service Engineers in
Sunderland, Tyne & Wear. The role involves the repair and service of electronic equipment in a workshop environment. Salary dependent on experience.
Opportunities exist for: Overtime | Installation Work | PLC Programming &
Project Work | Onsite industrial electronics repair and service | Ongoing Training in all these fields
Benefits Include: Health Scheme | Pension | 25 days Annual-Leave
This is a rare opportunity to join a growing organisation Email your CV to
sales@neutronics-uk.com
We are an equal opportunities employer. NO AGENCIES PLEASE
30 July/August 2026
www.electronicsworld.co.uk
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