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Switching Regulator

What is a switching regulator?

A switching regulator is a type of voltage regulator that uses high-frequency switching of transistors or MOSFETs to efficiently convert one DC voltage level to another. Unlike linear regulators that dissipate excess energy as heat, switching regulators store energy in inductors and capacitors during switching cycles, achieving much higher efficiency (typically 80-95%). They can step voltage up (boost), step it down (buck), or invert polarity, making them essential components in power supplies for computers, mobile devices, and other electronic systems where energy efficiency and heat management are critical.

Related Terms

Voltage Regulator

A voltage regulator is an electronic circuit or component that maintains a constant output voltage regardless of variations in input voltage or load current. It takes an unstable or varying input voltage and produces a stable, regulated output voltage that electronic circuits require to function properly. Voltage regulators are essential in power supplies and are commonly found in linear forms (like the 7805 IC) or switching forms (like buck converters) depending on efficiency and application requirements.