What is the difference between switching power supply and traditional linear power supply?

Switching power supplies and traditional linear power supplies are two common types of power converters, differing significantly in their operating principles, performance characteristics, and application areas.

1.Operating Principles:

• Switching Power Supplies: Switching power supplies control the output voltage by periodically switching the switching devices, then converting the high-frequency pulse signals into stable DC voltage through filtering circuits. They typically operate at frequencies ranging from tens of kHz to several MHz.
• Traditional Linear Power Supplies: Traditional linear power supplies adjust the conduction state of power transistors to linearly convert input voltage into output voltage. They operate at lower frequencies, usually matching the frequency of the input power source, generally ranging from tens of Hz to several hundred Hz.

2.Efficiency:

• Switching Power Supplies: With high-frequency switching technology, switching power supplies usually achieve higher efficiency, typically ranging from 70% to 90%, or even higher.
• Traditional Linear Power Supplies: Traditional linear power supplies have relatively lower efficiency, typically ranging from 50% to 70%, especially when the output voltage is significantly higher than the input voltage.

3.Size and Weight:

• Switching Power Supplies: They have smaller size and weight, enabling high power density and lightweight designs, suitable for applications with limited space and weight constraints.
• Traditional Linear Power Supplies: They have relatively larger size and weight, especially in high-power situations where more heat sinks and transformers are required, leading to increased overall volume and weight.

4.Stability:

• Switching Power Supplies: With feedback control and digital technology, switching power supplies exhibit higher output voltage stability, enabling precise voltage regulation and stable output.
• Traditional Linear Power Supplies: They generally have good output voltage stability, but may be affected under large load changes or significant input voltage fluctuations.

XINHE switching power supplies and traditional linear power supplies differ significantly in operating principles, efficiency, size, weight, and stability. Choosing the appropriate type of power supply based on specific application requirements can effectively enhance system performance and efficiency.