Definition

Noun: A voltage regulator is an electrical component or circuit designed to automatically maintain a constant voltage level. It takes an input voltage that may vary and provides a steady, predetermined output voltage.

Usage

A voltage regulator is used to ensure that electrical devices receive a stable voltage supply, protecting them from damage due to overvoltage or ensuring proper operation despite fluctuations in the input power. * The power supply unit includes a voltage regulator to provide a steady 5 volts to the microcontroller. * When the car's alternator output varies, the voltage regulator prevents the battery from overcharging.

Advanced Usage

• Integrated Circuit (IC) Voltage Regulator: A common type of voltage regulator manufactured as a single integrated circuit, such as the popular 78xx series (e.g., 7805 for 5V output).
  • For this simple circuit, a three-terminal IC voltage regulator is sufficient.
• Voltage Regulator Module (VRM): A specialized voltage regulator on a computer motherboard that provides the precise and rapidly changing voltages required by a central processing unit (CPU).
  • A high-quality motherboard features a robust VRM to support CPU overclocking.

Variants and Related Words

• Regulator (n): A more general term for any device that maintains a parameter (like pressure, flow, or voltage) at a set value. In context, it often refers to a voltage regulator.
• Voltage Stabilizer (n): A term often used synonymously with voltage regulator, particularly for larger AC power applications.
• To regulate (v): To control or maintain something, especially a machine or process, so that it operates correctly or consistently.

Synonyms

• Stabilizer (in the context of voltage)
• Constant-voltage source

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Line Regulation: The ability of a voltage regulator to maintain the specified output voltage despite changes in the input voltage.
  • This component has excellent line regulation, even with an unstable mains supply.
• Load Regulation: The ability of a voltage regulator to maintain the specified output voltage despite changes in the load current.
  • Good load regulation is crucial for circuits where power consumption varies.
• Dropout Voltage: The minimum required difference between the input and output voltage for the regulator to function correctly.
  • A low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator is needed when the input voltage is only slightly higher than the desired output.

Noun

1. a transformer whose voltage ratio of transformation can be adjusted