Find HS Code and trade information for voltage reducing power module

Voltage Reducing Power Module

A voltage reducing power module, often referred to as a step-down module, buck converter module, or DC-DC step-down converter, is an electronic circuit that efficiently converts a higher DC voltage to a lower DC voltage. These modules are widely used in various applications requiring a stable, lower voltage supply from a higher voltage source.

Material Composition

These modules typically consist of the following key components:

• Switching Regulator IC: The core of the module, responsible for controlling the switching process to regulate the output voltage. Common ICs include those from manufacturers like Texas Instruments, Linear Technology (now Analog Devices), and MP Labs.
• MOSFET: Used as a switch to rapidly turn the current on and off, controlled by the switching regulator IC.
• Inductor: Stores energy during the 'on' time and releases it during the 'off' time, smoothing the current flow.
• Capacitors: Used for filtering both input and output voltage, reducing ripple and noise. Typically ceramic, electrolytic, or tantalum capacitors are used.
• Diode (Schottky Diode): Provides a path for the inductor current when the MOSFET is off. Schottky diodes are preferred due to their fast switching speed and low forward voltage drop.
• Resistors and Capacitors (Feedback Network): Used to create a feedback loop that monitors the output voltage and adjusts the switching regulator to maintain a stable output.
• PCB (Printed Circuit Board): Provides the physical structure and connections for all components.
• Enclosure (Optional): Provides protection for the module and facilitates mounting.

Purpose and Function

The primary purpose of a voltage reducing power module is to efficiently convert a higher DC voltage to a lower, stable DC voltage. This is achieved through a process called buck conversion, utilizing switching techniques to minimize power loss.

• Efficiency: These modules are designed for high efficiency (often 80-95%), reducing heat generation and maximizing power transfer.
• Regulation: They maintain a stable output voltage despite variations in input voltage or load current.
• Isolation (Optional): Some modules include isolation circuitry, providing electrical isolation between the input and output.
• Current Limiting: Many modules incorporate current limiting protection to prevent damage from overloads.
• Over-Voltage Protection: Some modules have over-voltage protection to protect connected devices.

Usage Scenarios

Voltage reducing power modules are used in a wide range of applications:

• Portable Electronics: Powering devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
• Battery Charging: Providing a regulated voltage for charging batteries.
• LED Lighting: Driving LEDs with a consistent current and voltage.
• Solar Power Systems: Converting the higher voltage from solar panels to a usable voltage for charging batteries or powering loads.
• Automotive Applications: Powering automotive electronics from the vehicle's 12V or 24V power supply.
• Industrial Control Systems: Providing regulated power for sensors, actuators, and other components.
• Adjustable Power Supplies: As a core component in DIY or commercial adjustable power supplies.
• Embedded Systems: Providing a stable power supply for microcontrollers and other electronic components.

Common Types

• Linear Regulators (LDOs - Low Dropout Regulators): Simple and inexpensive, but less efficient than switching regulators. Suitable for applications with low voltage differences and low power requirements.
• Buck Converters (Switching Regulators): Highly efficient, ideal for applications with larger voltage differences and higher power requirements. The most common type of voltage reducing module.
• Synchronous Buck Converters: Utilize MOSFETs for both switching, further improving efficiency compared to traditional buck converters with diode rectification.
• Isolated Buck Converters: Provide electrical isolation between the input and output, improving safety and reducing noise. These typically employ a transformer.
• Adjustable vs. Fixed Output: Modules are available with fixed output voltages (e.g., 5V, 3.3V) or adjustable outputs, allowing the user to set the desired voltage level.
• Current Limiting Modules: Designed with built-in current limiting to protect the load.
• Digital Control Modules: Utilize a microcontroller to control the switching process, offering features like precise voltage control, data logging, and communication capabilities.

The declared goods, a voltage reducing power module, fall under several potential classifications based on its specific characteristics and application. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes:

• 8504406007: This code covers Electrical transformers, static converters (for example, rectifiers) and inductors; parts thereof: Static converters: Power supplies for automatic data processing machines or units thereof of heading 8471; power supplies for goods of subheading 8443.31 or 8443.32; power supplies for monitors of subheading 8528.42 or 8528.52 or projectors of subheading 8528.62: Suitable for physical incorporation into automatic data processing machines or units thereof of heading 8471 With a power output exceeding 50 W but not exceeding 150 W. This applies if the module is specifically designed to be integrated into data processing equipment and falls within the specified power range.

  • Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • Heading 8504: Electrical transformers, static converters and inductors.
  • Subheading 8504.40: Static converters.
  • Further specification 8504.40.60: Power supplies for specific equipment.

• 8504409520: This code covers Electrical transformers, static converters (for example, rectifiers) and inductors; parts thereof: Static converters: Other Rectifiers and rectifying apparatus: Power supplies: With a power output exceeding 50 W but not exceeding 150 W. This applies if the module is a general-purpose power supply (rectifier) not specifically for the equipment listed in 8504406007, and its power output is within the 50-150W range.

  • Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • Heading 8504: Electrical transformers, static converters and inductors.
  • Subheading 8504.40: Static converters.
  • Further specification 8504.40.95: Other rectifiers and rectifying apparatus.

• 8543708000: This code covers Electrical machines and apparatus, having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; parts thereof: Other machines and apparatus: Other: Microwave amplifiers. While seemingly unrelated, if the power module incorporates microwave amplification functionality, this code may be applicable.

  • Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • Heading 8543: Electrical machines and apparatus, having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere.
  • Subheading 8543.70: Other machines and apparatus.
  • Further specification 8543.70.80: Microwave amplifiers.

• 8543709860: This code covers Electrical machines and apparatus, having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; parts thereof: Other machines and apparatus: Other: Other: Other. This is a broad category for electrical apparatus with unspecified functions. It may apply if the module's function isn't clearly defined within other headings.

  • Chapter 85: Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • Heading 8543: Electrical machines and apparatus, having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere.
  • Subheading 8543.70: Other machines and apparatus.
  • Further specification 8543.70.98: Other.

Important Note: All listed codes have a base tariff of 0.0%, but are subject to an additional 25.0% tariff. This additional tariff increases to 30.0% after April 2, 2025. The total tariff rate is therefore 55.0% (or 57.6% for 8543709860).