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Transformer Alternative

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sharikbaig

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Hi,
Everyone knows what role a transformer plays in making our circuits bulky. So what is an alternative to that. What if i want to make 12V AC from 230V AC without compromising space & weight of my overall circuit. If we come up with a solution, how much current can it handle?
 

You did not mentioned the current required, but grossly speaking, scaling the power of a transformer in a factor of n:1 it increases its linear dimensions by a scale of n2, as well as its weight is increased in a scale of n4. Depending on your physical constraints you have to consider replacing the transformer by a high frequency switched inverter or something similar.
 

Yes , as Andre says, To get 12vac from 230vac without a mains transformer you need to first do a 230vac to 12vdc smps….then convert the 12vdc to 12vac using a h bridge inverter.
What frequency do you need the 12vac to be?
Does the 12vac need to be sinusoidal?

- - - Updated - - -

of course, you can use a capacitive dropper to get 12vac from 230vac , but they are only for say 2w maximum load.
 
The possible solution range can be better selected if you tell what the load is. We have e.g. "electronic" halogen lamp transformers that output a high frequent (several 10 kHz) AC voltage instead of 50 or 60 Hz.
 

Transformers may be bulky but not really in relation to the
power you can put through them. Try figuring what a
capacitor based charge pump's volume and weight
would be, at the same delivered power and input voltage.

The only way to shrink the xfmr is to up the frequency until
copper dominates the weight / volume. Meaning you'd
add power switch devices (fast ones), control circuitry,
capacitors and miscellany to replace that chunk of iron.
Save volume and weight, add cost and complexity. You
have trades. You may not like any of them. And you will
not be getting a pet unicorn for your birthday.
 
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