Lavstøyspenning

Lavstøyspenning, meaning "low noise voltage" in Norwegian, refers to a stable and precise DC voltage output that exhibits minimal electrical noise. This type of voltage source is crucial in applications where even small fluctuations or interference can significantly impact performance.

The primary characteristic of a lavstøyspenning is its low ripple and low random fluctuations. Ripple is typically the residual AC component that remains after rectification and filtering in a DC power supply. Low noise implies that these unwanted AC components, as well as other forms of electrical noise like thermal noise and shot noise, are suppressed to very low levels.

Applications requiring lavstøyspenning are diverse. In sensitive analog circuits, such as those found in audio amplifiers, medical equipment, and scientific instrumentation, a clean power supply is essential for accurate signal reproduction and measurement. For example, in high-fidelity audio systems, noise from the power supply can manifest as hiss or hum, degrading the listening experience. Similarly, in medical imaging devices, noise can obscure subtle details in diagnostic data.

Achieving lavstøyspenning typically involves using specialized voltage regulator circuits, often employing linear regulators known for their inherent low noise characteristics compared to switching regulators. Additional filtering stages, such as low-pass filters and ferrite beads, are also commonly employed to further attenuate any remaining noise. Careful circuit design and component selection are paramount in minimizing noise generation and propagation. The term emphasizes the quality of the voltage, focusing on its freedom from unwanted electrical disturbances.