the difference between a switching power supply and an ordinary power supply.

The main differences between a switching power supply and an ordinary power supply (mainly a linear power supply) are as follows:

I. Working principle 1. Switching power supply: 1. Using modern power electronics technology, the stable output voltage is maintained by controlling the time ratio of the switch tube to be turned on and off. The switch tube in the switching power supply works at a high frequency, usually switching states in a frequency range of tens of kilohertz to several megahertz or even higher. 2. When the switch tube is turned on, the input power charges the energy storage element (such as inductor, transformer, etc.); when the switch tube is turned off, the energy storage element releases energy to the load, thereby realizing the conversion and transmission of electrical energy. 2. Linear power supply: 1. It mainly works in a continuous conduction state through the adjustment tube (a linear amplification element), and adjusts its conduction degree according to the change of the output voltage, thereby stabilizing the output voltage. 2. The adjustment tube of the linear power supply always works in the linear amplification area, and its output voltage is linearly related to the input voltage.

II. Efficiency 1. Switching power supply: The efficiency is relatively high, generally reaching more than 80%, and some can even exceed 90%. This is because when the switching power supply is working, the switch tube is in a fully on or fully off state, and the power consumption is relatively low. 2. Linear power supply: low efficiency, usually around 50%, or even lower. The adjustment tube in the linear power supply always works in the linear amplification area, which will produce large power loss and lead to low efficiency.

III. Volume and weight 1. Switching power supply: Due to the high operating frequency, smaller transformers and filter capacitors and other components can be used, which greatly reduces the overall volume and weight. This is very important for the miniaturization and lightweight design of modern electronic equipment. 2. Linear power supply: usually requires larger transformers and filter capacitors and other components, and the volume and weight are relatively large.

IV. Voltage regulation range 1. Switching power supply: can maintain a stable output voltage within a wide input voltage range. For example, some switching power supplies can adapt to the input voltage range of 90V - 264V to meet the power grid standards in different regions of the world. 2. Linear power supply: sensitive to changes in input voltage, and the voltage regulation range is relatively narrow. When the input voltage changes greatly, the output voltage stability of the linear power supply will be greatly affected.

V. Cost 1. Switching power supply: The initial cost is relatively high, mainly because of its complex technology and the need to use high-performance electronic components. However, with the continuous development of technology and large-scale production, the cost of switching power supplies has gradually decreased. 2. Linear power supply: The initial cost is relatively low, but due to its shortcomings such as low efficiency and large size, the overall cost may increase due to energy consumption and heat dissipation during long-term use.

VI. Electromagnetic interference 1. Switching power supply: Due to the high operating frequency, it will generate greater electromagnetic interference (EMI). When designing and using switching power supplies, effective electromagnetic shielding and filtering measures need to be taken to reduce the impact of electromagnetic interference on other electronic equipment. 2. Linear power supply: The electromagnetic interference is relatively small. The operating frequency of the linear power supply is low, and the adjustment tube works in the linear amplification area, which generates relatively less electromagnetic interference.