The primary reason for using a DSP instead of a traditional microprocessor is speed, the ability to move samples into the device, carry out the needed mathematical operations, and output the processed data.

The innovation of DSP control into power electronic designs is an excellent example of the advantages provided by major technological advances. By replacing classic control with DSP control, the primary advantages are achieved by replacing hardware with flexible software. The advantages are even more dramatic because they don't just extend to reducing cost and increasing performance over classic designs. They can extend to many corners of the organization and include overall staff reductions and the advantages that standardization of designs across product lines brings, depending on the company. Following are the potential benefits for you, the customer.

Lower Cost - The controller will reduce the material cost of the customer's equipment, labor content, and overhead related to both materials and labor (purchasing transactions cost, accounting transactions costs, factory overhead). This reduction may be from 20% to 50% of the cost of the unit depending on the equipment power rating.

Increased design flexibility - The software within the DSP can be easily modified to optimize the application once in use in the field or if the application changes once the unit is installed.

Ease of design modification or troubleshooting in the field - Customers wanting to diagnose or modify the functionality of their equipment once they receive it can have it done via software and modem rather than returning it to the factory or having an expensive service call.

A reduction in energy consumption - Active harmonic cancellation and better energy management achieved by the real-time control of the DSP and the software that controls it reduces energy consumption.

Standardization across product lines - The same controller board can be used for a battery charger, an inverter or a switched mode power supplies; thus economics are achieved by reducing the number of components in inventory across numerous product lines as well as the overhead associated with specifying and purchasing components

Reduced Time to market - Software is certainly easier to revise than manufactured hardware.