Planar transformers are a type of SMPS Transformers that are designed based on the idea of stacking of multiple layer of PCB. In a usual transformer, copper windings are wound on a magnetic core. However, in a planar transformer, each winding is attributed to the copper trace that are etched on the PCB. This also helps in precisely calculating the trace inductance, resistance, etc,.
Advantages over conventional counterparts
Significantly reduced height (low profile)
Greater surface area, resulting in improved heat dissipation capability.
Greater magnetic cross-section area, enabling fewer turns
Smaller winding area
Winding structure facilitates interleaving
Lower leakage inductance resulting from fewer turns and interleaved windings
