What Is a Linear Power Supply?
Linear Power Supply exist to provide four separate and distinct functions:
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Change the output to a different voltage level than the input (step up or step down)
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Rectify ac into dc
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Isolate the output from the input
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Stabilize the output against the influence of:
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Source changes (source effect)
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Load changes (load effect)
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Temperature changes (temperature effect)
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Passage of time (time effect or drift)
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Linear power supplies are about 50% efficient. Only the smallest linear power supplies are capable of being securely mounted to a DIN Rail. Linear power supplies are still popular today because they provide very tight regulation (.01% typically), almost perfectly clean DC, fast transient response and their low component count helps provide a lower material cost for its user. Linear power supplies are typically open frame because of the excessive heat dissipation from their low efficiency.
DC Power Supply Selection Process
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Gather the required information
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Input voltage and frequency
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Number of outputs
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Voltage of each output
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Amperage of each output
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Peak loading of each output
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Battery Backup
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Determine which models meet all of the required specifications
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Check power supply mounting style, connections and physical size to ensure application suitability
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Check for applicable safety approvals for the country and application the power supply will be used in
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Discrete manufacturing machine diagnostics and controls
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Oil platform monitoring and control in the petroleum industry
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Central and remote water and wastewater control panels
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Monitoring and control panels for local facilities/air handling equipment
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Tire manufacturing mixing and building processes
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Industrial and commercial power house controls; building HVAC controls
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Material handling and palletizing monitoring and control
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Automotive press and machine parts controls
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Linear power supplies are available in a wide variety of outputs and inputs. Select from 1-4 outputs, 5-265 VDC outputs and 100-240 VAC inputs to fit your application.
