Which voltage regulator is the best choice for a power supply?

In summary, the conversation discusses different options for a voltage regulator for a power supply. The LM140, LM340, and LM78xx series are all viable options, but the LM2940-CT5 is suggested as a better choice due to its low dropout feature and stability with temperature. The LM78xx is the most common but may not be the most optimal due to its age.
  • #1
elecz
17
0
Can anyone tell me which voltage regulator is better to use for power supply. LM140, LM340 or LM78xx series? I want to know which one is most economical and easily availabe. Thankyou
 
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  • #2
They are all OK to use, but if I could suggest a better one, the LM2940-CT5 is a low dropout regulator which means the input only has to be 5.5 volts or more for the regulator to work. Normal regulators, like the ones you mentioned, need to have about 8 volts input to work.

This difference in input minus output voltage times the current flowing is what makes the regulator get hot. So, the smaller it is, the better.

Also, the ripple from the filter capacitor (before the regulator in a power supply) gets larger as more current is drawn. So, if the regulator is a low dropout type, this ripple can be greater without causing ripple in the output of the regulator.

A good comparison feature for regulators is the temperature stability.
A 7805 has a voltage shift with temperature of -1.1 mV per degree celcius
A LM2940 - CT5 has a voltage shift with temperature of 0.2 mV per degree celcius.
So, the LM2940 is more stable too. This might matter if you try to supply power to an oscillator.
 
  • #3
LM78XX is the most common one and you should be able to get it anywhere even in Radio Shack. Not necessary the best because it is so old.
 

Related to Which voltage regulator is the best choice for a power supply?

1. What is a fixed voltage regulator?

A fixed voltage regulator is an electronic component used to regulate or maintain a specific output voltage level regardless of changes in input voltage or output load. It is commonly used in electronic circuits to provide a stable and constant voltage for other components to operate.

2. How does a fixed voltage regulator work?

A fixed voltage regulator works by using a voltage reference and a feedback loop to adjust the output voltage. The voltage reference provides a stable reference voltage, and the feedback loop compares the output voltage to this reference voltage and makes necessary adjustments to maintain the desired output voltage level.

3. What are the types of fixed voltage regulators?

The two most common types of fixed voltage regulators are linear regulators and switching regulators. Linear regulators use a pass transistor to regulate the output voltage, while switching regulators use high-frequency switching techniques to adjust the output voltage.

4. What are the advantages of using a fixed voltage regulator?

Fixed voltage regulators offer several advantages, including providing a stable and constant voltage output, protecting other components from voltage fluctuations, and reducing the need for complex power supply circuits. They are also relatively easy to use and cost-effective.

5. What are the typical applications of fixed voltage regulators?

Fixed voltage regulators are commonly used in a variety of electronic devices and circuits, such as power supplies, battery chargers, audio equipment, and voltage regulators for microcontrollers and other integrated circuits. They are also used in automotive and industrial applications to provide stable voltage levels for sensitive electronic components.

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