The technology also can sit in DC-to-DC devices, which are designed to adjust the voltage and minimize power losses.

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High-voltage DC can carry power over long distances at lower cost than alternating current, but the transformers still cost too much to make the idea widespread.

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Running appliances off DC power can cut energy consumption dramatically by reducing the number of AC-DC conversions.

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To achieve this power savings, rivals need to add external dc-to-dc converters, increasing both the size and cost of their products.

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Obama is the only president in recent memory never to have successfully placed a nominee on the DC Circuit, which handles many high-profile appeals, including executive authority to fight terrorism and broader congressional power.

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Once completed it is expected to generate 6.4 MWh DC (equivalent to 5MW AC) and be capable of generating enough electricity to power about 700 average-sized homes.

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