Thermoelectric coolers operate according to the Peltier effect. The effect creates a temperature difference by transferring heat between two electrical junctions. A voltage is applied across joined conductors to create an electric current. When the current flows through the junctions of the two conductors, heat is removed at one junction and cooling occurs. Heat is deposited at the other junction.

The main application of the Peltier effect is cooling. However the Peltier effect can also be used for heating or control of temperature. In every case, a DC voltage is required.

Some benefits of using thermoelectric cooling in electronic devices include:

• No chlorofluorocarbons or refrigerant emissions
• Low maintenance
• Long lifetime
• Controllable
• Compatible with extreme environments or remote locations
• Capable of cooling far below ambient temperatures
• Performance independent of orientation

Additionally, coolers can dramatically improve customer electronic systems in the following problem areas:

• Thermal performance
• Cost
• Noise
• Weight
• Size
• Efficiency