Pico Electronics offers several ultra-miniature high-voltage DC-DC converter families with similar power ratings but different mounting styles, voltage ranges and environmental capabilities.

The simplest selection rule is:

Choose AV Series for through-hole mounting or output voltages above 1kV.

Choose SMV Series for a surface-mount version of the 100V to 1kV AV converter.

Choose MV Series when −55°C to +85°C operation and high-reliability construction are required.

All three series are proportional, unregulated converters. Their output voltage changes with input voltage and load.

AV vs SMV vs MV Comparison

When to Choose Pico AV Series

The AV Series is the broadest option for through-hole high-voltage designs.

For outputs from 100V to 1kV, AV models use a compact 0.50 × 0.50-inch footprint and provide isolated single outputs. Selected dual-output versions are also available. Input options include nominal 5V, 12V, 15V, 24V and 28V.

AV models also extend beyond the SMV and MV ranges:

1.5kV to 5kV models use a compact 0.50 × 0.50-inch footprint.

6kV to 10kV models use a longer 1.00 × 0.50-inch footprint.

Nominal input options extend up to 48V on selected high-voltage models.

Isolated and non-isolated positive or negative configurations are available, depending on output voltage and part number.

Choose AV when the design requires through-hole mounting, more than 500V output or any output above the SMV Series’ 1kV limit.

Typical models include 5AV500, 12AV600, 24AV1000 and 5AV5000-P.

When to Choose Pico SMV Series

The SMV Series is primarily the surface-mount counterpart to the 100V–1kV AV Series.

AV and SMV models with the same input voltage and output voltage generally share the same electrical rating. The main difference is the mounting format:

AV: through-hole

SMV: surface mount

For example, 12AV500 and 12SMV500 are both nominal 12V-input, 500V-output, 1.25W converters. The appropriate choice depends mainly on PCB layout and production assembly requirements.

SMV is suitable for automated surface-mount assembly, compact PCB designs and applications that do not need more than 1kV output. Tape-and-reel packaging may be available on request.

Typical models include 5SMV500, 12SMV1000 and 24SMV250D.

The “SMV” designation indicates the surface-mount version of the AV family. It should not be interpreted as the military-temperature version of MV.

When to Choose Pico MV Series

The MV Series is intended for high-reliability and extended-temperature applications requiring outputs from 100V to 500V.

Unlike standard AV and SMV products, MV converters operate from −55°C to +85°C without derating. The series uses selected high-reliability components, including JANTX diodes, MIL-screened transformers, capacitors and resistors, plus hermetically sealed transistors.

MV modules are housed in a six-sided epoxy-insulated metal enclosure and provide 1000V DC input-to-output isolation. Their typical package size is approximately 1.25 × 0.55 × 0.40 inches.

Choose MV for:

Military and COTS electronic systems

Aerospace and avionics subsystems

Harsh-environment instrumentation

Extended-temperature industrial equipment

Isolated high-voltage bias circuits

Applications requiring metal-case shielding

Typical models include 5MV500, 12MV300 and 15MV500.

The standard MV construction uses MIL-screened or qualified components, but this does not automatically mean every module is supplied with complete MIL-STD qualification. Required screening, testing and documentation should be confirmed during the RFQ process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Pico AV and SMV converters?

The primary difference is mounting. AV models are through-hole, while SMV models are surface mount. Electrically equivalent AV and SMV part numbers generally have the same input, output and power ratings.

Which series supports output voltages above 1kV?

The AV Series supports outputs from 1.5kV up to 10kV. SMV is limited to 1kV, while MV is limited to 500V.

Which series operates from −55°C to +85°C as standard?

The MV Series has a standard −55°C to +85°C operating temperature range. AV and SMV models require an optional expanded-temperature configuration for this range.

Are AV, SMV and MV converters regulated?

No. All three are proportional, unregulated converters. If accurate output regulation is required, consider an external feedback circuit or a regulated Pico high-voltage series.

Can an AV converter directly replace an SMV or MV converter?

An AV and equivalent SMV model may have similar electrical ratings, but their mounting footprints are different. MV products also use a larger metal enclosure and have different temperature and construction specifications. PCB layout, pin configuration, isolation and environmental requirements must be checked before substitution.

Stock and RFQ

Browse available Pico Electronics power modules or submit an RFQ with the required input voltage, output voltage, output polarity, mounting method, temperature range, screening level and order quantity.

Current stock, price, date code, documentation and lead time should be confirmed for the complete manufacturer part number.