Efficiency and Power Characteristics of Switching Regulator Circuits

Focus:

A discussion of the factors that determine switching regulator losses and efficiency. Appendices include information relating to the selection of filter capacitors for switching regulators. "Thermal Considerations for Aluminum Electrolytic Filter Capacitors" explains why it's necessary to select these parts based on size rather than capacitance value because of the relationship between size and ripple current rating. This section also discusses capacitor temperature ratings and how to predict the operating life of the capacitor in the application. "Measuring RMS Current in Switching Regulator Filter Capacitors" explains measurement and analysis techniques for determining the ripple current rating required of filter capacitors for switching regulators.

What you’ll learn:

• How to select aluminum electrolytic capacitors for use in switching regulator filters

Notes:

Linear Technology Application Note 46

View the Source

Author & Publication:

Brian Huffman, Linear Technology, Vendor website, Nov 01 1991

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