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Electronics Tech Update – 19 April 2026
The electronics and power systems industry is rapidly moving toward higher efficiency, digital control, and compact power solutions.
In today’s update, we cover important developments in:
- Power Factor Correction (PFC) controllers
- GaN-based fast charging solutions
- Industrial microcontrollers
- SMPS design trends
These updates are highly relevant for engineers working in AC-DC converters, embedded systems, and industrial electronics.
1. Texas Instruments Introduces UCC28180 PFC Controller
Texas Instruments continues its innovation in power electronics with the UCC28180, designed for high-efficiency boost PFC applications.
Technical Overview
The UCC28180 is a continuous conduction mode (CCM) PFC controller widely used in front-end AC-DC power supplies.
Key Features
- CCM boost PFC operation
- Low THD (Total Harmonic Distortion)
- High power factor (>0.99)
- Programmable switching frequency
Engineering Insight
PFC stages are critical in modern SMPS because they:
- Improve input current waveform
- Reduce harmonic distortion
- Meet regulatory standards
Why This Matters:
- Used in server PSUs, EV chargers, and industrial SMPS
- Improves efficiency and compliance
- Works well with SiC and GaN switches
👉 Insight: Controllers like UCC28180 are still widely used, but newer designs are shifting toward totem-pole PFC
2. Navitas Semiconductor Expands GaNFast Charger IC Portfolio
Navitas Semiconductor is expanding its fast-charging solutions with devices like the NV6115.
Key Highlights
- Integrated GaN FET + driver
- High-frequency switching (>1 MHz)
- Compact charger design
Engineering Benefits
- Smaller transformer size
- Reduced switching losses
- High power density
Applications
- USB-C fast chargers
- Laptop adapters
- Mobile charging solutions
👉 Trend: GaN ICs like NV6115 are driving compact and lightweight chargers
3. Renesas Electronics Launches RA6M5 Industrial MCU
Renesas Electronics has introduced the RA6M5, designed for industrial and embedded applications.
Key Features
- ARM Cortex-M33 core
- High-performance processing
- Integrated peripherals
- Low power consumption
Engineering Insight
This MCU is suitable for:
- Industrial automation
- Embedded control systems
- Digital power control
Key Advantages:
- Real-time processing capability
- Strong security features
- Efficient power consumption
👉 Engineers can use MCUs like RA6M5 for:
- Digital SMPS control
- Smart energy systems
- IoT-enabled devices
4. onsemi Introduces NCP1342 Flyback Controller
onsemi has launched the NCP1342, targeting high-efficiency AC-DC adapters.
Technical Highlights
- Quasi-resonant operation
- Valley switching for reduced losses
- Low standby power
Engineering Benefits
- Improves efficiency in light load
- Reduces EMI
- Suitable for energy-efficient designs
Applications
- Mobile chargers
- Adapters
- Consumer SMPS
👉 Insight: Quasi-resonant flyback is still dominant in low-to-medium power SMPS
5. Trend: Shift Toward Totem-Pole PFC Architecture
A major industry shift is happening toward:
Totem-Pole PFC (bridgeless PFC design)
Why This Trend?
Traditional PFC:
- Uses diode bridge → conduction losses
Totem-pole PFC:
- Eliminates bridge
- Uses active switches
Benefits
- Higher efficiency (>98%)
- Lower losses
- Better thermal performance
Challenges
- Complex control
- Requires fast-switching devices (GaN/SiC)
- EMI management
👉 Engineers must now understand:
- High-frequency switching
- Advanced control techniques
- Digital PFC implementation
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