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Renesas Electronics America - Knowledgebase

How do power ICs differ depending on the type?

Latest Updated:12/01/2004


How do power ICs differ depending on the type?


Power supplies are classified according to their voltage regulation method as follows, and ICs for various applications are available.

  • Linear regulator

Function:To continuously control the voltage between the input and output so that an unstable input voltage is lowered and converted into a stable voltage output.

Type:Series regulators (such as 3-terminal regulators) and shunt regulators are available.
A series regulator that operates even if the difference between the input voltage and output voltage is approximately 1 V is called low-dropout type (LDO type).
Features:Simple because it's almost integrated into one chip as a power supply.

  • Switching regulator

Function:Controls ON/OFF of input and outputs a constant voltage by using a smoothing circuit.

Type:Insulated type (AC-DC converter) and non-insulated type (DC-DC converter) are available.
Application:Used as an AC-DC converter for stepping up, stepping down, or inverting the voltage, or as a DC-DC converter.
Features:Little heat emission and high efficiency. Suitable for a large power supply.

Suitable Products
Power Management Linear
bipolar comparators