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APPLICATION NOTE
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Fig. 12: Temperature control (Case 2)
Reliable electronic thermostats can now be implemented instead of dated bi-metallic solutions. This allows
large efficiency gains to be achieved, thanks to the removal of the PTC and to a smarter temperature man-
agement.
These improvements can also permit cold appliances designers to downsize the compressor and the
evaporator.
Furthermore, switching to MCU based controls will allow higher flexibility and adaptability for designers
and will help them to enhance the differentiation of their appliances. Thus, automatic routines (like defrost
cycle) can be implemented and the end-customer interface can be improved (e.g temperature information,
open door warning, temperature alarm, smooth light-up of the internal bulb by electronic dimming, etc.).
In terms of cost, electronics can now be competitive with electromechanics. A complete thermostat board,
plus the sensor, can reach a cost similar to electromechanical. Furthermore, some features, as extended
life time or spark-free operation, come for free with electronics.
5. CONCLUSION