Switching Regulator Efficiency. Therefore the efficiency of a switching regulator is dependent on the chosen components and operating conditions. Before considering measurement of efficiency we review the definition and meaning.
On the other hand the efficiency of a linear regulator is independent of chosen components and is dependent only on the input and output voltage conditions. Practical implications of poor efficiency. Switching regulators are efficient because the series element is either fully conducting or switched off so it dissipates almost no power.
Measurement of efficiency efficiency of a switching regulator.
Practical implications of poor efficiency. Since their efficiency is less dependent on input voltage they can power useful loads from higher voltage sources. Switching regulators are able to generate output voltages that are higher than the input voltage or of opposite polarity unlike linear regulators. On the other hand the efficiency of a linear regulator is independent of chosen components and is dependent only on the input and output voltage conditions.
