PWMsäätimessä

A PWM controller, or Pulse Width Modulation controller, is an electronic device used to control the output of a power source by rapidly switching it on and off. The "width" of the pulse, or the duration for which the power is on relative to the total cycle time, determines the average output voltage. By varying this pulse width, the controller effectively regulates the amount of power delivered to a load.

These controllers are widely employed in various applications. In motor control, PWM allows for precise adjustment of motor speed without the need for complex analog circuitry or inefficient resistive methods. By altering the duty cycle of the PWM signal sent to the motor, its rotational speed can be finely tuned. Similarly, PWM controllers are used for dimming LEDs. A higher duty cycle results in a brighter light, while a lower duty cycle produces dimmer illumination.

Another common application is in power supplies, particularly for switching power supplies. PWM controllers help to maintain a stable output voltage under varying load conditions. They are also found in audio amplifiers, battery chargers, and heating element control. The advantages of using PWM include high efficiency, as the switching elements are either fully on or fully off, minimizing power dissipation. They also offer good linearity and can be implemented with relatively simple and inexpensive components.