Abstract
The external ac-dc power supply market is more than five times larger than the
embedded ac-dc power supply market in unit terms and more than fifteen times
larger than the dc-dc converter market. However, it is ultra competitive and
highly commoditized. Additionally, this market operates in low wattages with
correspondingly low prices. Two primary groups of competitors exist; a
relatively small number of global multinationals that dominant the market in
terms of unit sales volume and market share and hundreds of smaller companies
targeting specific niche applications.
In an effort to provide more energy efficient products, a growing number of
companies are adopting standards designed to make external ac-dc external
power supplies more energy efficient. Two specific programs, the ENERGY STAR
program developed in the US and the European Code of Conduct, both establish
voluntary codes of conduct designed to reduce energy consumption on external
power supplies up to 250W.
The ENERGY STAR program was initiated in 1992, when the US Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) introduced it as a voluntary labeling program designed
to identify and promote energy-efficient products, and to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions.
Computers and monitors were the first labeled products. Through 1995, the EPA
expanded the label to additional office equipment products and residential
heating and cooling equipment. In 1996, the EPA partnered with the US
Department of Energy for particular product categories. The ENERGY STAR label
is now found on major appliances, office equipment, lighting, home
electronics, and more. The EPA also extended the label to cover new homes and
commercial and industrial buildings.
The drive for increased energy efficiency is also driving competition and
creating opportunities in this market. The European Code of Conduct for
External Power Supplies is directed at external power supplies for electronic
appliances, including AC adapters, battery chargers, domestic appliances,
power tools and IT equipment. The Code of Conduct was prepared by the European
Commission, following the discussions and decisions of the Commission' s adhoc
working group composed of independent experts, member state representatives
and representatives of industry. The participating manufacturers of power
supplies commit themselves to design and produce power supplies that comply
with ever-stricter energy efficiency guidelines. The participating
manufacturers of appliances that use power supplies in their products commit
themselves to the use of these more efficient parts. Though it is a voluntary
plan, the list of participants includes major players in electronics in
Europe. This trend is not limited to the United States and Europe; it is
expanding and includes Canada, Japan, Australia, Taiwan, Mexico, China and
Brazil.
View Cart
