OR Controllers, Ideal Diodes

An ideal diode is an electronic component with unidirectional conductivity. In its conducting state, it acts like a short circuit, allowing current to flow in one direction; in its non-conducting state, it acts like an open circuit, preventing reverse current flow. It is commonly used in power management circuits to reduce energy loss and heat generation.

OR controllers, also known as diode-OR controllers, use MOSFETs to mimic the behavior of ideal diodes, creating a low-loss power connection mechanism. They operate by sensing the input power voltage: when the input exceeds the load charge potential, the MOSFET turns on; when an overvoltage or undervoltage condition is detected, the controller disables the MOSFET to prevent reverse leakage or damage. These controllers support hysteresis loop control and logic input signals for power supply failover.

In practice, OR controllers are used in conjunction with ideal diodes for OR connection scenarios in multi-power systems, such as parallel power supplies, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and N+1 redundant systems, to improve efficiency, reliability, and thermal management. For example, in automotive electronics or servers, the controller can dynamically select the optimal power input to avoid oscillations and power interruptions while minimizing voltage drop and energy loss.