SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hamg-g7a08

Compared with a linear supply, which is a characteristic of a switchmode power supply?

Smaller components, thanks to high-frequency operation.

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  1. High-frequency operation allows smaller components ✔
  2. Faster switching makes higher output voltage possible
  3. Fewer circuit components are required

Why: A switchmode supply operates at a high frequency, and that allows the use of smaller components. It does not use fewer parts, and it is not inherently more stable.

Huh, didn't know that: A half-wave rectifier converts 180 degrees of the AC cycle to DC, while a full-wave rectifier converts 360 degrees.

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What do you call a flower that runs on electricity? A power plant.
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References

Answer: High-frequency operation allows smaller components. A switchmode supply operates at a high frequency, and that allows the use of smaller components. It does not use fewer parts, and it is not inherently more stable.

  1. NCVEC 2023-2027 General Class Pool and Syllabus (6th Errata, Feb 4 2026) ncvec.org/downloads/General%20Class%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%202023-2027%20Public%20Release%20with%206th%20Errata%20Feb%204%202026.pdf
    High-frequency operation allows the use of smaller components
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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