Convert High Voltages Using a Transformer-Less Buck Controller (Download)
Switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) based on the buck (step-down) converter principle are widely used in all electronic applications. They don’t require a transformer, just a simple coil to efficiently convert a high voltage to a low voltage.
These converters are widely employed, and the setup is quite simple. Typical applications are for supply voltages up to 60 V and generating output voltages of up to 12 V. With higher supply voltages or higher desired output voltages, though, the availability of suitable converter integrated circuits is often limited.