Linear Power Supplies
Introduction to Linear Power Supplies
Linear power supplies regulate the output voltage by dissipating excess power in the form of heat. Linear power supplies are ideal for those applications that require a very low noise power supply.
The linear power supply uses a low frequency transformer composing of a core made of a silicon steel sheet to convert AC mains to a desired voltage; the power supply rectifies and filters the voltage to a DC level. Since general equipment requires a stable DC voltage, the rectified and filtered DC level should be regulated through a power regulator. The power regulator clamps excessive voltage at the predetermined level and dissipates unwanted voltage in the form of heat.
