11th ISC 2024 (Universitas Advent Indonesia, Indonesia)
“Research and Education Sustainability: Unlocking Opportunities in Shaping Today's
Generation Decision Making and Building Connections” October 22-23, 2024

Design and Implementation of Zero Standby Power using
Fixed-Frequency Flyback Converter
Melvin T. Valdez
Adventist University of the Philippines
mtvaldez@aup.edu.ph

ABSTRACT
This study presents a zero-standby power solution for household appliances, addressing the
persistent issue of power consumption when devices remain plugged in. The research aims to
reduce standby power usage through the implementation of fixed-frequency flyback converter
technology. The system integrates a fixed-frequency flyback controller, a current sensor, and a
passive infrared (PIR) sensor. The flyback converter supplies the necessary power to the sensors.
In contrast, the PIR sensor detects motion to activate an AC relay when a user approaches, and the
current sensor maintains power until the user finishes their task. The study demonstrated that
standby power consumption was reduced to 70-90mW across a wide input range of 85Vrms to
265Vrms, with an overall efficiency between 80-95% at a 1.5kW load. Despite the promising
results, challenges were encountered, such as the PIR sensor's accuracy in detecting light
movements. Despite these limitations, the design still has a substantial positive effect on reducing
household energy consumption. The proposed system offers practical implications for consumer
electronics, paving the way for more energy-efficient household appliances.
Keywords: Standby Power, Zero, Appliances, PIR, current sensor
INTRODUCTION
A wide range of household appliances, including televisions, microwave ovens, and air
conditioners, continue to consume power even when switched off or not in use. This constant
power draw, known as "standby power" or "vampire electricity," contributes significantly to global
energy waste. Standby power can account for up to 10% of a household’s electricity consumption,
and globally, it represents a considerable portion of residential energy use. According to the
International Energy Agency (IEA), standby power usage is responsible for approximately 500
terawatt-hours of electricity consumption annually, which equates to 1% of global carbon dioxide
emissions. In countries like the United States, this waste costs consumers billions of dollars each
year and significantly contributes to environmental degradation. For example, in Australia alone,
residential standby power consumption has been estimated to cost $1.1 billion annually and
contribute to nearly 5.7 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions (Chang et al., 2013). These
statistics highlight the urgent need to develop solutions that address the economic and
environmental impacts of standby power consumption.
Several techniques have been developed to minimize standby power consumption in household
appliances. One approach involves RFID technology, which eliminates standby power but requires
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a large directional antenna and a battery-driven relay (Chen et al., 2010). Another method utilizes
power sockets with photovoltaic (PV) cells for energy harvesting, combined with passive infrared
(PIR) sensors to detect user presence (Tsai et al., 2010). However, these systems have limitations,
such as continued power consumption in dark environments and reliance on user interaction to
activate the socket. Solar-powered systems, while effective in certain conditions, are also limited
by light availability, reducing their overall efficiency (Wallada et al., 2012).
To address these challenges, this study proposes a novel solution using Fixed-Frequency
Flyback Converter technology to achieve zero standby power consumption. The design
integrates a flyback converter with a current sensor and PIR sensor, enabling it to be seamlessly
integrated into any household appliance via an AC socket. The main objectives of this research
are to 1) Design a fixed-frequency controller for the flyback converter; 2) Develop a zero
standby power system incorporating the flyback converter, current sensor, and PIR sensor, with
circuit simulation using Simetrix; and 3) Implement a printed circuit board (PCB) prototype and
evaluate its performance at low (85 Vrms) and high (265 Vrms) line voltages.
This design aims to significantly reduce standby power consumption, providing a
practical and scalable solution for households. By utilizing tool such as Simetrix and relying on
readily available components, the proposed system offers a cost-effective and efficient method to
reduce the environmental and economic impacts of standby power.

LITERATURE REVIEW
In today's focus on energy efficiency, reducing standby power—energy consumed by
devices while off but plugged in—is crucial due to its significant impact on energy waste and
environmental sustainability. This review explores recent research and advancements in
minimizing standby power, focusing on Switch-Mode Power Supplies (SMPS), Flyback
Converters, and the VIPER06 controller.
Standby power, or phantom power, is used for functionalities like remote controls and
clock displays, but often results in unnecessary energy waste (Siderius et al., 2006). While
individual appliance consumption may be low, cumulative household standby power can be
substantial, as shown in Table 1.
Table 1
Approximate Residential Standby Power Consumption per Household

Appliances like TVs and cable boxes use small standby power (0.1-12 W), but it accumulates,
leading to notable energy waste.
Source: (Chakraborty et al., 2011)
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The data indicates that although individual appliance standby power is low, the aggregate
effect within a household is significant.
Globally, standby power impacts significantly. For instance, in the U.S., it accounts for about 7%
of residential electricity use, with similar figures in other developed countries, leading to millions
of tons of CO2 emissions annually (Chakraborty et al., 2011). Table 2 provides a snapshot of
global standby power statistics.
Table 2
Global Residential Standby Power Consumption

Global standby power usage varies by region. U.S. households average 50 watts, producing
around 27 million tons of CO2 annually.
Source: (Chakraborty et al., 2011)
Innovative solutions to reduce standby power include RF energy systems, photovoltaic
power sockets, and light energy-based systems, each with specific limitations (Chen et al., 2010;
Tsai et al., 2010; Wallada et al., 2012). One notable solution involves using RF-modulated signals
to operate household appliances, eliminating standby power consumption. RFID systems use
passive tags to recover energy but face challenges like large antennas and short ranges.
Additionally, photovoltaic power sockets with PIR sensors reduce standby power but can be less
effective in low light.
Switch-Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) are efficient power units used across electronics,
initially developed for military applications but now prevalent in consumer electronics due to their
compact design and efficiency (Kim et al., 2011). SMPS units use switching regulators to convert
power with minimal heat dissipation. Figure 1 illustrates the block diagram of an existing
Switched-Mode Power Supply (SMPS).

Figure 1. Block Diagram of existing Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS)
Source: (Kim et al., 2011)
This block diagram shows the AC input supply is initially rectified and then filtered by an
input reservoir capacitor to produce a rough DC input supply. This DC level can fluctuate
significantly due to variations in the mains voltage. To address this, the input capacitor must have
a relatively large capacitance to sustain the supply in case of severe voltage drops in the mains
(Kim et al., 2011). The SMPS design includes components such as the AC input rectifier, power
transformer, and PWM controller, which work together to convert and regulate electrical power.
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The system's efficiency is enhanced through complex circuit designs that reduce heat and improve
performance.
The Flyback Converter, known for its cost-effectiveness and meeting 80 PLUS efficiency
standards, is particularly effective in low-power applications (Singh et al., 2010). The VIPER06
controller enhances Flyback Converter performance with high efficiency and reliability (VIPER06
datasheet, 2024). Table 3 compares various converter specifications, highlighting the Flyback
Converter's efficiency.
Table 3
Specifications of different converters

The Flyback converter handles 0-150 W, with a 5-500 V input range, provides isolation, and has
80% efficiency, making it ideal for low to mid-power applications.
Source: (Brown, 2001)

METHODOLOGY
I.

Materials, Equipment, Software
1. Prototype Materials: A detailed list in Table 4 for the components used in the
prototype is provided. Each component is specified with its reference, quantity,
symbol, and description to facilitate replication and understanding of the prototype
construction.
Table 4
Bill of Materials

A detailed component list for easy replication of the prototype.
Source: Author

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2. Equipment/s
Voltage Source:
DC source: Chroma Programmable DC Power Supply
AC Source: Chroma Programmable AC Source Model 61505 and
California Instruments Model
Measuring Equipment:
Oscilloscope: Tektronix DPO 4034 Digital Phosphor Oscilloscope
Multimeter: Fluke 73 III Multimeter and Agilent 34401A 6.5 Digit
Power Meter: Voltech PM100 Single Phase Power Analyzer
Power Meter: Yokogawa WT 210
Voltage Probes: Tektronix P6139A
Current Probe: Tektronix TCP 0030 and TCP312
Load and Soldering:
Electronic Load: Chroma 6314 and Chroma 63108 DC Electronic Load
Shunt resistor: rated 25mΩ, 1A
Soldering Iron
Soldering Lead
3. Software
Simetrix - is a circuit simulation tool used in this study to model and validate the
performance of the Fixed-Frequency Flyback Converter and related components. It
enabled testing under various conditions, optimizing the design before physical
implementation, and ensuring efficiency in reducing standby power consumption.
II.

Design Framework

Figure 2. Conceptual Framework of the design and Implementation
of zero standby power using Fixed-Frequency Flyback Converter
Source: Author

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III.

Research Flow of Zero Standby Power Design

The design and implementation process follows a structured flow, as illustrated in Figure
3. This flow chart outlines the integration of the Fixed-Frequency Flyback Converter, current
sensor, and PIR sensor, highlighting the step-by-step process from component selection
through final system testing.

Figure 3: Research Flow of Design and Implementation of Zero Standby
Source: Author
IV.

Rationale for Component Selection

A Fixed-Frequency Flyback Converter was chosen for its energy efficiency and ease of
use in low-power applications. Its fixed-frequency operation simplifies EMI filtering and
control across varying line voltages (85-265 Vrms). Although other converters offer lower
switching losses, the fixed-frequency design's simplicity and component availability made it
more suitable. The VIPER06 controller was selected for its integrated protection, low
component count, and compatibility with both low- and high-line voltages, reducing design
complexity.
V.

Selection of the Right Controller

Choosing a Flyback controller usually depends on specific application and other design
consideration such as cost, design form factor and ease of design. Figure 4 shows a selection
guide using ST Microelectronics solution for fixed-frequency Flyback with regards to its
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maximum output power. The Viper06 has an integrated solution that offers low parts count
and easier implementation.

Figure 4: STMicroelectronics Fixed-Frequency Flyback Controller
Source: (STMicroelectronics, 2009)
VI.

Prototype Development

The prototype was constructed according to the detailed schematic diagram provided in
Figure 5. The PCB design includes key components such as resistors, transistors, diodes,
capacitors, and transformers. The assembly process was straightforward, though special
attention was needed for heat dissipation, especially around the transformer, to prevent
overheating during extended operation.

Figure 5. Complete schematic diagram of zero standby power using Fixed- Frequency
Flyback Converter
Source: Author
VII.

Limitations and Challenges

During the development of the prototype, several challenges were encountered. One significant
limitation was the sensitivity of the PIR sensor in detecting light movements, which led to
occasional false triggers in environments with minimal activity. This was mitigated by
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adjusting the sensor’s sensitivity range, although it introduced a trade-off between detection
accuracy and power consumption. Additionally, the current transformer posed challenges in
terms of calibration, requiring precise tuning to ensure accurate readings across different load
conditions. Despite these challenges, the overall design met its objectives for reducing standby
power consumption.
VIII. Simulations
Simetrix simulations are used to validate the theoretical calculations and design
parameters. Simulations include current transformer processing circuit outputs under different
conditions.
IX.

Pictorial Diagram of Design and Implementation

The main board in Figure 6 is depicted from multiple angles to provide a comprehensive
view of the design. The top view and front-side view of the main board are included to highlight
the layout and component placement.

Figure 6. Pictorial Diagram of the Design
Source: Author
X.

Actual Measurements on the Prototype Circuit

Measurements taken during the testing phase are documented to assess the performance
of the Fixed-Frequency Flyback Converter. These measurements include output voltage
regulation at various load conditions, burst mode during standby, and the performance of the
line connect/disconnect circuit. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the design in
maintaining voltage stability and minimizing power consumption during standby mode.
XI.

Testing the PIR Sensor Circuit

The PIR sensor circuit is tested for stability and motion detection capabilities. The process
flow for testing the PIR sensor circuit design is outlined, showing stability time and motion
detection measurements. The stability time of the PIR sensor is approximately 18.1 seconds,
after which it reaches a constant state.

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XII.

Efficiency Measurements

Efficiency measurements are conducted on the design using a 1.5 kW load. The data
collected includes input power, output voltages, and currents, which are used to calculate the
efficiency of the design. The efficiency is compared against the target standard, showing that
the prototype meets or exceeds the expected performance levels.
XIII. Standby Power Measurements
Standby power measurements with the setup in Figure 7A are performed with and without
the design, using a 1.5 kW load. The measurements indicate significant improvements in
standby power consumption with the design, averaging a 98% reduction in standby power
across various input voltages.

(A)
(B)
Figure 7. Power Set-up and Measurement (A) 1.5KW Load (B) 200W Projector
Source: Author
IX.

Time-Based Measurement of Standby Power

A time-based test shown in Figure 7B is conducted using a projector with a 200W rated
power to evaluate the standby power consumption over 6 hours. The results show a
consistent reduction in standby power with the design, with an average improvement of
99.35% compared to the unit without the design.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The implementation of the zero standby power circuit using a Fixed-Frequency Flyback
Converter, current sensor, and PIR sensor was aimed at minimizing standby power consumption
and improving efficiency. This section summarizes the key findings, presents the descriptive
statistics, and discusses the implications of these results.
a. Prototype Circuit Performance
The output regulation tests for +12V and +5V at a 30mA load showed regulation
percentages of 1.67% shown in Figure 8A and 5% shown in Figure 8B, respectively. These
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values indicate efficient voltage regulation under the given load, meeting the expected
performance criteria. Additionally, the burst mode operation at standby showed a compensation
frequency of 100 kHz, significantly reducing frequency losses.

(A)
(B)
Figure 8. Voltage output regulation at 30mA load of the Flyback Converter (A) +12V (B) +5V
Source: Author
The PIR sensor circuit achieved a Vgs voltage of 8.14 Vrms as shown in Figure 9A, with
an accuracy rate of 98.25%, suggesting minimal variance from the theoretical values. The stability
time for the sensor was 18.1 seconds as shown in Figure 9B, with an output of 3.45V,
demonstrating the reliable response time of the sensor.

(A)
(B)
Figure 9. PIR sensor (A) Vgs voltage on Q3 MOSFET using actual prototype (B) Digital
Output during stability duration
Source: Author
The current transformer was evaluated in both standby and operational modes. In
standby mode in Figure 10A, the output was measured at 13.1 mVrms, showing 93.8% accuracy,
while in operational mode in Figure 10B, the output increased to 18.1 mVrms, with a 97.12%
accuracy. These results confirm that the current transformer performs effectively in detecting
changes between the two states.
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(A)
(B)
Figure 10. Current Transformer Processing circuit output actual measurements w/ 1.5KW
load during (A) standby state (B) work-mode
Source: Author
b. Standby Power Reduction and Efficiency
Implementing the zero-standby circuit reduced standby power consumption from 5.08W
to 0.07W, a 98% reduction, demonstrating its effectiveness in minimizing power wastage.
Efficiency measurements under standby mode averaged 88.41%, surpassing the typical 80%
benchmark, further validating the circuit's ability to maintain high efficiency even at low power
levels.
Discussion
The results demonstrate that the zero-standby power circuit effectively meets the research
objectives by significantly reducing standby power consumption and maintaining high
efficiency, confirming its potential to minimize energy wastage. With 98.25% accuracy in the
PIR sensor and strong current transformer performance, the circuit is well-suited for devices
requiring low standby power and efficient energy management. However, a higher-than-expected
variance (5%) in +5V output regulation suggests room for improvement in power supply design.
Future work should focus on optimizing voltage regulation and applying the design to higherpower devices.
CONCLUSION
In the design and implementation of a zero-standby power system using a fixed-frequency
flyback converter, the researcher has the following conclusions:



The fixed-frequency controller for the flyback converter was successfully designed and
integrated, achieving the goal of zero standby power consumption.
The system, comprising the flyback converter, current sensor, and passive infrared (PIR)
sensor, demonstrated effective performance in eliminating standby power.

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

A printed circuit board (PCB) prototype was developed and tested, showing reliable
operation at both low (85 Vrms) and high (265 Vrms) line voltages.

Simetrix simulations and experimental tests confirmed standby power consumption of 7090 mW, meeting the 80 Plus standard with 80-95% efficiency at a 1.5 kW load. This shows
potential for improving energy efficiency and scalability across consumer electronics. However,
PIR sensor accuracy and efficiency variations need improvement. Future work should focus on
enhancing sensor performance and optimizing control algorithms to further reduce energy
consumption.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Implement a Standard Layout: Adopt a standardized layout for the fixed-frequency
flyback converter to minimize signal distortion and reduce interference in the control
circuits.
2. Optimize Low-Power Components: Utilize optimized, low-power components to
further decrease overall power consumption, enhancing the efficiency of the system.
3. Prioritize Cost, Safety, and QA Standards: Ensure that the design adheres to costeffectiveness, safety regulations, and Quality Assurance (QA) standards to improve the
reliability and scalability of the zero standby power system.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my advisors, Engr. Febus Reidj C. Cruz and
Engr. Deneng P. Cabigting, for their invaluable guidance and support throughout my project. I am
also deeply thankful to the Product Design and Product Design Support Group, particularly JL
Soronio and Jhowel Cuevas, for their crucial contributions and assistance during the experiments.
Special thanks go to Engr. Martin Samson, Engr. Carlo Alonzo, Engr. Norman Valles, Engr. Joey
Bagwan, Krisha Ambat, and Engr. Norberto Trinidad for their assistance with testing, materials,
and layout suggestions. Lastly, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my wife, Helen
Lim-Valdez, and my family, whose unwavering support has been a source of strength throughout
this journey.
REFERENCES
Chang, C.J., et al., (2013). An isolated Output-Feedback Scheme with Minimized Standby Power
for SMPS. IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics, Vol 28 (11), 1.
Chen, L., et al., (2010). A RF remote-control transceiver with zero standby power based on RF
technology. Proc. PrimeAsia, 234-236.
Tsai, C. H., et al., (2010). Design and Implementation of a Socket with Zero Standby Power
using a Photovoltaic Array. IEEE Transactions on Customer Electronics, Vol 56 (4), 1-8.
Siwamogsatham et al., (2011). Smartly Saving Energy with Zero-Standby Power
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Consumption System. Technology Management in the Energy Smart World (PICMET),
Proceedings of PICMET, 1-4.
Wallada et al., (2012). An Evaluation of the Zero-watt Standby System Employing Light and
RF Energy. Proceedings of PICMET '12: Technology Management for Emerging Technologies.
4.

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