Fuente de Alimentación Estabilizada
Temas abordados
Fuente de Alimentación Estabilizada
Temas abordados
A regulated power supply consists of three basic blocks: a transformer, a diode rectifier, a ripple filter, and optionally a linear regulator. The transformer adjusts the input voltage level; a separating transformer is used to ensure safety by having two galvanically isolated windings . The diode rectifier converts AC to DC; full-wave rectification is preferred to minimize ripple . The ripple filter, often a large electrolytic capacitor, smooths the output by using a rule of 2000 uF per amper of output . Lastly, the linear regulator maintains a stable output voltage despite load variations, with specific types like the LM3XX series capable of supplying high currents .
Capacitors in power supply filters smooth out DC output by reducing ripple voltage. Choosing the correct value is crucial; a rule of 2000 µF per ampere of output is often used . It's important to overrate the voltage specification to provide a safety margin against voltage spikes, which can exceed nominal values and lead to dielectric breakdown. The capacitor's voltage rating should exceed the maximum expected voltage from the transformer secondary to account for parasitic effects and to ensure longevity and reliability, particularly in balanced power supplies .
Extreme load variations can cause significant changes in output voltage, impacting the stability and performance of connected devices. Regulated power supplies include components such as linear regulators, which maintain constant output despite changes in load resistance. The regulator compensates for supply voltage fluctuations by adjusting the voltage drop across itself, thereby stabilizing the output .
Applying a safety margin in rectifier and filter design, such as specifying higher voltage and current ratings than the nominal ones, prevents components from operating at their limits. This enhances reliability by accommodating real-world variations and spikes in current/voltage that exceed ideal conditions. For instance, using diodes rated double the nominal secondary voltage prevents breakdown during voltage surges . Similarly, overrating capacitors helps manage parasitic effects and irregular peaks, ensuring sustained performance and durability .
The rectifier's role is to convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). Full-wave rectification is preferred because it results in a smoother DC output by utilizing both halves of the AC waveform, minimizing the ripple effect compared to half-wave rectification which only uses one half . This reduces the amount of filtering needed and enhances efficiency, making it more suitable for applications requiring stable power .
Toroidal transformers are preferred for their higher efficiency compared to E-I core transformers, offering lower electromagnetic emissions and compact size . However, they may be more expensive and are not always necessary as the E-I core can provide adequate performance. The choice depends on specific design criteria like space, cost constraints, and the required efficiency level .
Copper is preferred over aluminum for transformer windings due to its superior electrical conductivity, which reduces resistive losses and enhances overall efficiency. Aluminum's higher resistance leads to greater heat generation and efficiency loss. Although copper is more expensive, its advantages in performance and reliability often justify the cost, especially in applications demanding high efficiency such as regulated power supplies .
A half-wave rectifier might be used in low-power applications where cost and simplicity outweigh the benefits of efficiency and output smoothness, such as in simple battery chargers or devices where minimal power conversion is acceptable. Its suitability diminishes as requirements for a smooth DC output increase, as it results in greater ripple and lower efficiency compared to a full-wave rectifier .
The series 78HXX and LM3XX regulators are capable of supplying currents up to 5A, which makes them suitable for high-current applications . They help maintain a stable output voltage, critical for sensitive electronics. However, their limitation lies in the fixed voltage options available (commonly 5V, 12V, and 15V), which may not meet all design requirements, necessitating additional components or configurations to achieve other output voltages .
Separating the windings in a transformer ensures galvanic isolation, which is critical for safety and preventing electrical shock. It also reduces the possibility of coupling noise between the primary and secondary windings. If the windings are not isolated, any fault on the primary side may directly pass to the secondary circuit, posing significant safety risks and potentially damaging connected components .