Discover the future of optimised Power Factor Correction with
Solving critical challenges in power supply design
99.5%
FRONT-END
EFFICIENCY
250W
EXTENDABLE
QR FLYBACK LIMIT
96–98%
OPTIMISED
POWER FACTOR
200V
MAX BULK CAPACITOR
VOLTAGE RATING
50%
LESS ENERGY
WASTE
33%
MAXIMUM REQUIRED
PROCESSING POWER
0
INRUSH CURRENT
-ELIMINATED-
FLAT
FRONT-END
EFFICIENCY PROFILE
0
INPUT VOLTAGE DERATING
-ELIMINATED-
0
CUSTOM
COMPONENTS
Make boost converters a thing of the past with
The industry breakthrough enhancing size, efficiency,
and reliability in power supply designs
The industry breakthrough redefining power supply designs
by enhancing size, efficiency, and reliability
Discover the path to replacing boost converters with
The industry breakthrough that transforms size, efficiency,
and reliability in power supply designs
WHAT IS PULSIV
OSMIUM TECHNOLOGY?
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology optimises power factor correction (PFC) by introducing an innovative approach that is smarter, more efficient, and more compact than conventional boost converters.
In contrast to a Boost PFC, Pulsiv OSMIUM technology:
Is a shunt converter connected in parallel which sits across the line
Only needs to process 33% of the power throughput
Prioritises size and efficiency over a perfectly sinusoidal input current
Is intelligently controlled to meet harmonic current regulations
Eliminates inrush current by using a switch to block the current to the capacitor
Increases performance at low-loads to deliver a flat efficiency profile
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology can be integrated into virtually any AC-DC power supply application up to 250W* and paired with industry standard DC-DC converters including Flybacks, Forward Converters, & Asymmetric Half Bridge solutions. All external components remain standard, support the latest GaN and SiC devices, and ensure compliance with global safety and EMC regulations.
*Higher power levels under development
WHAT IS PULSIV
OSMIUM TECHNOLOGY?
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology optimises power factor correction (PFC) by introducing an innovative approach that is smaller, smarter, and more efficient than conventional boost converters.
In contrast to a Boost PFC, Pulsiv OSMIUM technology:
Is a shunt converter connected in parallel which sits across the line
Only needs to process 33% of the system’s total power
Prioritises efficiency over a perfectly sinusoidal input current
Uses intelligence to ensure compliance with harmonic current regulations
Eliminates inrush current by using a switch to block capacitor charging
Increases performance at low-loads to deliver a flat efficiency profile
Additionally, Pulsiv OSMIUM technology:
Is suitable for virtually any AC-DC power supply application up to 250W*
Seamlessly integrates with Flybacks, Forward Converters, & Asymmetric Half Bridge solutions
Ensures all external components are industry standard and readily available
Can be complemented with the latest GaN and SiC devices
*Higher power levels under development
DISCOVER A UNIQUE COMBINATION OF BENEFITS
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology redefines what’s possible in power electronics. With a breakthrough combination of features and benefits that solve critical challenges in power supply design, it marks the most transformative leap forward the industry has seen in over half a century — setting new standards for efficiency, performance, and sustainability.
INCREASE LOW
POWER EFFICIENCY
Reduces energy waste when operating at low powers or in standby mode and helps to
increase the overall 4-point
average efficiency
LOWER OPERATING TEMPERATURES
Extends component lifetime - preventing system failures while enabling a more efficient and compact design to be developed.
REDUCE LINE CURRENTS
Extends component lifetime - preventing system failures while enabling a more efficient and compact design to be developed.
ELIMINATE
INRUSH CURRENT
Removes the need for any inrush
current limiting components or additional complex circuitry and prevents inconvenient tripping
of fuse boxes
DETECT GRID FAILURES ULTRA-FAST
Protects equipment by enabling
UPS back ups to safely take over while preventing data loss, and improving overall system stability
PROCESS 33%
LESS POWER
Enables 66% of the energy to
bypass the PFC stage directly into the DC-DC converter - improving efficiency, thermal management,
I²R losses, power density, and cost
EXTEND FLYBACKS
TO 250W
Improves design complexity and replaces more expensive LLC’s
while helping to reduce size,
weight, and cost
ELIMINATE INPUT VOLTAGE DERATING
Enables full power to be delivered over the entire universal input voltage range - simplifying the design and improving reliability in regions with unstable grids.
INTEGRATE A
HALF-ACTIVE BRIDGE
Enables full power to be delivered over the entire universal input voltage range - simplifying the design and improving reliability in regions with unstable grids.
UPGRADE TO DRY POLYMER CAPS
Eliminates the risk of traditional
wet electrolytic capacitors
drying out and causing product failures while extending reliability
to 25 years
EXCEED
REGULATIONS
Simplifies the design process, reduces development time/cost,
and helps to ensure compliance
with global energy regulations
such as EcoDesign
LICENSE THE TECHNOLOGY
Simplifies design time and cost
to ensure compliance with global energy regulations such as EcoDesign
THE INVENTION THAT
REDEFINES INNOVATION
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology applies intelligence to an Active Valley Fill method. Whilst similar to a buck converter, it differs by regulating the charging current and valley voltage to charge a storage capacitor combined with a high-side
or low side architecture.
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology specification overview:
| ARCHITECTURE: | Intelligent Active Valley Fill |
| SWITCHING FREQUENCY: | 42kHz or 125kHz |
| INPUT VOLTAGE RANGE: | 90 - 265VAC |
| FRONT-END EFFICIENCY: | 99.5% (peak) / 97.5% (average) |
| PFC VOLTAGE RANGE: | ~ 100 - 320VDC |
| BULK CAPACITOR VOLTAGE: | 160V or 200V |
| COMPATIBLE DC-DC CONVERTERS: | Flybacks, Forward Converters, Asymmetric Half-Bridge Solutions |
| OUTPUT POWER: | 1W - 250W* |
| POWER FACTOR: | 0.93 - 0.98 |
| GaN COMPATIBLE: | Yes |
*Higher power levels under development
ONE DEVICE
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES…
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology is delivered within an industry standard and unmodified microcontroller. Sourced from a global Tier-1 semiconductor manufacturer, it has been chosen to ensure security, performance, and long-term availability. Every unit is pre-programmed with our proprietary IP, delivering tailored functionality that enables designers to accelerate development and unlock the full potential of their applications.
For high volume projects of more than 1 million units per year, a simple license agreement can be offered. This provides the most cost effective solution to implement our technology while retaining total control of the supply chain process. Under the terms of a standard legal framework, we deliver a limited use secure code package which can be used to programme any compatible and independently sourced microcontroller.
Basic Specification:
| GRID FAILURE DETECTION: | Included as standard |
| HOLD UP CONTROL: | Included as standard |
| POWER CONSUMPTION INDICATOR: | Included as standard |
| GRID FREQUENCY INDICATOR: | Included as standard |
| ACTIVE BRIDGE: | Optional |
| X-CAP DISCHARGE: | Optional |
| NO INPUT VOLTAGE DERATING: | Optional |
| GaN / SiC COMPATIBLE: | Optional |
| SWITCHING FREQUENCY: | 42kHz or 125kHz |
| SUPPLY VOLTAGE: | 1.8VDC to 3.6VDC |
| SUPPLY CURRENT (Max): | 2.5mA |
| OPERATING TEMP RANGE: | −40°C to +85°C |
| OUTPUT POWER: | 1W - 250W* |
| PACKAGE: | VQFN24 |
| DIMENSIONS (L x W x H): | 4mm x 4mm x 1mm |
| REEL SIZE: | 250 or 3000 pcs |
*Higher power levels under development
Standard and Optional Features:
HOW DO WE COMPARE TO A BOOST PFC?
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology provides significant advantages in the optimisation of Power Factor Correction (PFC) when developing AC-DC power supply designs and is the only suitable alternative to a Boost PFC.
The comparison shown below demonstrates the differences, result, and benefit when comparing the two technologies side-by-side in a 150W AC-DC power supply.
FRONT-END CONFIGURATION:
Boost PFC:
Result:
Benefit:
BULK CAPACITOR VOLTAGE RATING & TYPE:
Series
Increased performance at low loads and a totally flat efficiency profile
By only needing to process 33% of the power, most of the energy bypasses the PFC stage directly into the DC-DC stage. This significantly improves critical aspects of the power supply design including efficiency, thermal management, component sizes, I²R losses, power density, lifetime, reliability, and overall cost.
Must process 100% of the power
PFC VOLTAGE:
Boost PFC:
Benefit:
Voltage: 400V
Type: Wet Aluminium Electrolytic
Pulsiv OSMIUM:
Pulsiv OSMIUM:
Only needs to process 33% of the power
POWER REGULATION:
Boost PFC:
Result:
Benefit:
Result:
Boost PFC:
Benefit:
Result:
~ 400V
Lower voltage step-down ratio to the DC-DC stage
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology not only delivers a lower PFC voltage, but a wider range compared to the 400V required in Boost PFC designs. While the lower step-down ratio improves efficiency, the converter will also automatically vary it’s switching frequency which provides significant advantages in complying with EMC regulations.
3W
SIZE AT 2W/cm³:
4.2cm x 4.2cm x 4.2cm = 75cm³
Pulsiv OSMIUM:
Pulsiv OSMIUM:
Pulsiv OSMIUM:
Pulsiv OSMIUM:
Parallel
Eliminated
~ 100V - 325V
1W
Significant improvements in thermal management, size/weight, reliability, and energy waste
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology reduces power losses in the PF stage and subsequently lowers heat generation by 67%. This directly improves the overall efficiency, reliability, and expected life of the power supply. It further reduces size/weight, increases power density, and helps meet regulatory standards (E.g. DOE Level VI, 80 PLUS Titanium, Energy Star etc) while also lowering energy waste.
2.9cm x 2.9cm x 2.9cm = 25cm³
200% increase in power density and 67% reduction in overall size of the power supply
Pulsiv OSMIUM technology enables more compact power supplies to be developed - often a focus in the design of next generation products. A reduced volume further helps lower overall weight, and reduce manufacturing costs which can positively impact the final product price and/or profitability.
Boost PFC:
Benefit:
Pulsiv OSMIUM:
Voltage: 160V or 200V Selectable
Type: Wet Aluminium Electrolytic or Dry Polymer
Optional use of Dry Polymer capacitors to extend lifetime to 25 years
Due to the lower PFC voltage that is generated by Pulsiv OSMIUM technology, the bulk capacitor only needs to be rated at 160V or 200V - reducing size, weight, and cost compared to the 400V required in a Boost PFC design. This enables the optional use of Dry Polymer capacitors which eliminates any potential risk of traditional wet electrolytics drying out and extends lifetime to 25 years.
67% of the power passes directly into the DC-DC converter at 100% efficiency
By only needing to process 33% of the power, most of the energy bypasses the PFC stage directly into the DC-DC converter. This significantly improves critical aspects of the power supply design including efficiency, thermal management, component sizes, I²R losses, power density, lifetime, reliability, and overall cost.
INRUSH CURRENT:
Boost PFC:
Result:
Benefit:
Must be managed / reduced
No additional components or complex circuitry is required to manage the inrush current
In a design using Pulsiv OSMIUM technology, the switch is located inline between the input and bulk capacitor. A Pulsiv OSMIUM microcontroller determines when it’s turned on while also controlling the charging of the capacitor. As a result, when the switch is off (default), the current is zero and therefore, no inrush current exists.
POWER LOSS AT 98% EFFICIENCY:
Result:
Boost PFC:
Benefit:
Result:
The global electronics industry has been longing for a breakthrough technology that can address many of the critical design challenges associated with developing a power supply. Any new technology that promises to revolutionise how we think about power electronics will undoubtedly raise questions, suspicion, or even criticism.
As such, we’ve answered many of the questions raised by engineers from around the world to provide as much information as possible about our innovative, world leading, and patented technology.
-
Q. Is this basically a buck converter?
A. Whilst it may look like a buck converter, it’s not. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology is based on a valley fill architecture which uses an intelligent active converter to charge a capacitor.Q. What architecture is Pulsiv OSMIUM based on?
A. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology is based on a valley fill architecture which uses an intelligent active converter to charge a capacitor.Q. How can Pulsiv OSMIUM eliminate inrush current?
A. In a design using Pulsiv OSMIUM technology, the switch is located inline between the input and bulk capacitor. A Pulsiv OSMIUM microcontroller determines when it’s turned on while also controlling the charging of the capacitor. As a result, when the switch is off (default), the current is zero and therefore, no inrush current exists.Q. Is Pulsiv OSMIUM technology patented?
A. Yes. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology is currently supported by a growing suite of more than xx patents.Q. Who designed Pulsiv OSMIUM technology?
A. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology was invented by Dr Zaki Ahmed, a former professor at The University of Plymouth and author of more than 86 peer-reviewed publications. His research and innovation has focused on improving the way electrical power is converted and continues to underpin Pulsiv’s technology roadmap. He has also developed complex numerical methods and algorithms that deliver unparalleled system performance in the most economical way.Q. How can I get technical support for developing a design using Pulsiv OSMIUM technology?
A. To get expert technical support, please contact us diectly. Our team is happy to help via email, phone, Teams/Zoom meeting, or we can visit your location.Q. Where was Pulsiv OSMIUM technology developed?
A. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology was developed in Plymouth, UK at what is now the Pulsiv R&D hub.Q. Does Pulsiv OSMIUM technology support universal mains input?
A. Yes. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology supports an input voltage range of 90 - 265VAC.Q. What power levels can Pulsiv OSMIUM technology offer?
A. Currently, Pulsiv OSMIUM technology can be used in power supply designs up to 250W with higher power levels under development.Q. How can Pulsiv OSMIUM technology reduce component sizes?
A. The PFC stage only processes 1/3 of the power. As such, this impact the size of all PFC power components (Inductor, Switch, Diode).Q. Do you offer a license agreement for your technology?
A. Yes. For high volume applications (over a minimum of 500,000pcs per year), we can provide a license agreement to help reduce the total cost of ownership in using Pulsiv OSMIUM technology within your design. For a more detailed discussion, please contact us.Q. Why does Pulsiv OSMIUM technology only require 160V or 200V rated capacitors?
A. The bulk capacitors are charged by an intelligent active step-down converter which charges to a maximum of 150V or 190V which is pin selectable.Q. Can I use 200V rated Dry Polymer capacitors in a Pulsiv OSMIUM design?
A. Yes. Due to the lower HVDC that is generated by Pulsiv OSMIUM technology, the bulk capacitor only needs to be rated at 160V or 200V which reduces size, weight, and cost compared to 400V required in a Boost PFC design.Q. What level of Power Factor does Pulsiv OSMIUM technology achieve?
A. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology delivers a Power Factor of between 0.93 - 0.98.Q. Can I still pass regulations if I use Pulsiv OSMIUM technology?
A. YesQ. How is it possible that Pulsiv OSMIUM only needs to process 1/3 of the power?
A. P OSMIUM is an optimised power factor correction technology which doesn't produce a perfect sinusoidal current. It only processes enough power to meet line current regulations. -
Q. Can a Pulsiv OSMIUM front-end design support a limited input voltage range?
A. Yes. When designed accordingly, Pulsiv OSMIUM technology can be used with a limited input voltage range. If required, please contact us for technical support.Q. Can a Pulsiv OSMIUM front-end design support a higher input voltage of 400V?
A. Yes. When designed accordingly, Pulsiv OSMIUM technology can be used with an input voltage range of 400V. If required, please contact us for technical support.Q. Does a Pulsiv OSMIUM front-end design require any special/custom components?
A. No. All external components (in addition to the Pulsiv OSMIUM microcontroller) used in the design of a power supply are completely standard enabling complete design flexibility if certain component manufacturers are preferred.Q. Do you offer a front-end only reference design?
A. Yes.Q. Do you offer a front-end only evaluation board?
A. Yes.Q. Can I use GaN or SiC devices in a Pulsiv OSMIUM front-end design?
A. Yes. GaN and SiC devices compliment any Pulsiv OSMIUM front-end design.Q. What is the lowest power level I can use in a Pulsiv OSMIUM front-end design?
A. While Pulsiv OSMIUM technology can be used in designs from just 1W, our recommendation is from 20W and above.Q. How is it possible that Pulsiv OSMIUM only needs to process 1/3 of the power?
A. P OSMIUM is an optimised power factor correction technology which doesn't produce a perfect sinusoidal current. It only processes enough power to meet line current regulations. -
Q. What input voltage does Pulsiv OSMIUM provide to the DC-DC stage?
A. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology provides an input voltage range to the DC-DC stage of between 100V - 320VDC.Q. Which DC-DC converters can be used with Pulsiv OSMIUM technology?
A. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology can be paired with industry standard DC-DC converters including Flybacks, Forward Converters, & Asymmetric Half Bridge solutions.Q. Do you offer DC-DC converter reference designs?
A. Yes. Our full AC to DC reference designs provide the entire design of the DC-DC stage.Q. Can I use Pulsiv OSMIUM technology with my existing DC-DC converter design?
A. Yes. If the input voltage to your DC-DC converter is between 100V and 320VDC, you can use any existing design with Pulsiv OSMIUM technology.Q. If I use Pulsiv OSMIUM + a Flyback at 250W, will it still pass line current harmonics?
A. Yes. When using Pulsiv OSMIUM technology and a carefully designed Flyback at 250W, the line current harmonics will pass.Q. Can I change any of the suggested components in a Pulsiv OSMIUM reference design?
A. Yes. All external components in any Pulsiv OSMIUM reference design can be switched out with alternative/preferred component manufacturers. We recommend testing any alternative component to ensure it meets the required specification of the design.Q. Which applications can Pulsiv OSMIUM be used in?
A. Pulsiv OSMIUM technology can be used in an unlimited range of applications at power levels of up to 250W. (Higher power levels under development).Q. Can I use GaN or SiC devices in the DC-DC stage of a Pulsiv OSMIUM design?
A. Yes. GaN and SiC devices compliment any DC-DC stage used with a Pulsiv OSMIUM front-end design. -
Q. Where can I buy Pulsiv OSMIUM products?
A. Pulsiv OSMIUM products can be purchased through a global network of franchised and stocking distribution partners.Q. Do you offer evaluation boards?
A. YesQ. Do you offer custom designed solutions based on your technology?
A. Yes. If you require a custom design for your application, please contact us to discuss your project in more detail.Q. Can I use Pulsiv OSMIUM technology in my own microcontroller?
A. Yes. We can provide a license to use Pulsiv OSMIUM technology in your own microcontroller subject to an MOQ of 500,000pcs.Q. Do your products pass EMC?
A. Yes. Where required, our products have been designed and tested to pass EMC regulations. Please refer to the relevant datasheet for more details.Q. Can I buy your products in small volumes and/or through a local distributor?
A. Yes. Pulsiv OSMIUM products can be purchased in small volumes through a global network of franchised and stocking distribution partners.Q. Is there any MOQ on your products?
A. No. There is no MOQ for purchasing Pulsiv OSMIUM products.Q. Do you offer fully assembled power supplies?
A. Yes. For certain products, we offer fully assembled modules.Q. Are your products in stock?
A. Yes. We try to ensure stock of all Pulsiv OSMIUM products are held with global stocking distributors. To find a stocking distributor, please visit the relevant Pulsiv OSMIUM product page, all of which show which distributors hold stock and their current inventory levels.Q. Are your products available in Digikey, Mouser, RS, or Farnell?
A. Yes. Currently, our products are listed with Digikey & Farnell. We plan to add other stocking distributors in the future.Q. What is the highest power product you can offer?
A. Currently, the Pulsiv OSMIUM micrcontroller can support designs up to 250W.
Can’t find the answer to a question?
No problem - just contact us. We’re happy to help via email, phone, Teams/Zoom meeting, or we can visit your location.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The global electronics industry has been longing for a breakthrough technology that can address many of the critical design challenges associated with developing a power supply. Any new technology that promises to revolutionise how we think about power electronics will undoubtedly raise questions, suspicion, or even criticism.
As such, we’ve answered many of the questions raised by engineers from around the world to provide as much information as possible about our innovative, world leading, and patented technology.
ABOUT PULSIV OSMIUM TECHNOLOGY
Discover many of the frequently asked questions, in general, about Pulsiv OSMIUM technology by those who have encountered it for the first time.
ABOUT DEVELOPING A PULSIV OSMIUM FRONT-END DESIGN
Discover many of the frequently asked questions about how to develop a front-end stage of a power supply design based on Pulsiv OSMIUM technology.
Discover many of the frequently asked questions about Pulsiv OSMIUM products including stock availability and where to buy them.
ABOUT DEVELOPING THE DC-DC STAGE OF A PULSIV OSMIUM FRONT-END DESIGN
Discover many of the frequently asked questions about how to develop the DC-DC stage of a power supply design based on a Pulsiv OSMIUM front-end design.
ABOUT PULSIV OSMIUM PRODUCTS
MORE QUESTIONS? - NO PROBLEM!
We actively encourage and openly welcome anyone looking to learn more about our technology. We can help via email, phone, website chat, online conference call, or a member of our team can visit your location - just contact us.