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Spinoff story

Power Controller

A real-world story of NASA technology finding a life beyond the mission.

About this technology

Overview

The power factor controller (PFC) senses shifts in the relationship between voltage and current, and matches them with a motor's need. This prevents waste as motors do not need a high voltage when they are not operating at full load conditions. PFC is manufactured by Nordic Controls Company, among others, and has proved extremely cost effective.