jännitteensäätimen

A jännitteensäätimen, or voltage regulator in English, is an electronic circuit or device designed to automatically maintain a constant output voltage. It achieves this by comparing the actual output voltage to a desired reference voltage and adjusting its internal resistance to compensate for any deviations. This ensures that regardless of changes in the input voltage or the load connected to the output, the output voltage remains stable.

Voltage regulators are crucial components in a wide array of electronic systems, from simple battery-powered devices to complex computer power supplies. They protect sensitive electronic components from damage caused by voltage fluctuations, which can be detrimental to their operation and lifespan. Without voltage regulation, devices could experience unpredictable behavior, malfunction, or even permanent damage.

There are several types of voltage regulators, broadly categorized into linear regulators and switching regulators. Linear regulators are simpler and produce very low noise but are less efficient, dissipating excess voltage as heat. Switching regulators, on the other hand, are much more efficient, especially at higher voltage differences, but can introduce electrical noise. The choice of regulator depends on the specific application's requirements regarding efficiency, noise sensitivity, cost, and voltage range. Common applications include power supplies for microcontrollers, audio equipment, automotive electronics, and battery charging circuits.