High-end adjustable linear power supply is commonly used in laboratory applications. They allow the output voltage over a wide range such as between 30 volts and 5 amperes output. Another common use of linear power supply is rechargeable flashlights that are based on simple circuitry.
Linear power supply accepts AC input and generates a respective output. It utilizes a transformer to convert the main supply into low voltage AC. To produce DC output, the main supply is passed through a rectifier. The main supply AC comes along with severe deviations called as noise. To contour this pulsating current, a capacitor is placed in the AC to DC circuit. However, small deviations continue to exist in the resultant DC, called as ripples. The noise frequency of the ripples is in resonance to the main power supply frequency.
Regulated vs. Unregulated Linear Power Supply
Linear power supply can be regulated or unregulated depending on the circuit configuration. In the unregulated mode, the output supply cannot be accurately predicted. The output voltage generated through unregulated power supply varies as per the characteristics of the main AC supply voltage. The overall load on the circuit also affects output supply. Thus, attaining the state of constant voltage or constant current is difficult at unregulated linear power supply mode.
For critical electronic applications, the linear mode power supply is attached to a regulator. It helps in stabilizing both the current and the voltage. Regulator also filters ripple and noise elements in the input. The purpose of such filtering is to generate a better quality DC output. To protect the equipment from over-current, the linear regulators limit current flow in the circuit.
Linear Power Supply vs. Switch Mode
Comparative analysis of the linear power supply with advanced switch-mode system helps to understand its industry application.
The advantages of linear power supply over switch-mode are:
Easy circuit operations
No high frequency switching associated with electro-magnetic interference
Offers high output regulation
Adherence to strict output specifications is possible
Some disadvantages to watch out for while using the linear power supply as compared to the switch-mode are:
Power loss due to voltage drop
Isolation of the voltage output poses severe challenges
Utilizes a low frequency bulky transformer
Produces low frequency ripples that are difficult to filter
Less efficient
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