Voltage Regulators

Successfully stabilize a circuit with a high-quality voltage regulator. These are an essential part of most everyday products and systems that rely on an electric circuit. In fact, in most cases, several of these voltage regulators are needed.

If you are searching for a specific 5V or 12V voltage regulator or need an automatic voltage regulator for the job you are working on, browse the range here at RS. We stock products by leading names in the industry and each regulator is made to the highest standard.

Read on to find out more about voltage regulators and how they're used.

What is a voltage regulator?

A voltage regulator is an integrated circuit (IC) that is used to create and maintain a consistent output voltage. They do this by taking the input voltage and converting it into a fixed output. This output voltage remains fixed regardless of any changes that are made to the input or load conditions. This means the regulator will maintain the output it is fixed at.

Voltage regulators are used for two reasons. The first is to regulate - or in some cases, vary - the output voltage within the circuit. The second is to keep a constant output voltage at the required current.

How do voltage regulators work?

To maintain the output voltage, regulators compare this output with a precise reference voltage. This comparison is used to adjust the pass device that manages and maintains the output amount. This process controls and maintains the voltage passing through the circuit at the points where the voltage regulators are placed.

Knowing what input and output voltages you need will help you work out what type of regulator you need. They are either step-down regulators, which offer an output that is lower than the input voltage, or a step-up, where output voltages are higher than the input.

The most common type of voltage regulator is a step-down, so one that requires output to be less than the input voltage. For instance, if your voltage regulator inputs 12V and it outputs 5V, your voltage regulator is a typical setup.

What are the different types of voltage regulators?

There are two types of voltage regulators to be aware of:

• Linear voltage regulators

These are ideal for those seeking to step down the voltage. They are a cost-effective option that is also noise-free, making them a popular choice.

• Switching regulators

These are used to both step up and step down the voltage and they deliver high power efficiency, so they are common among those who are working on an advanced circuit.

Where are voltage regulators used?

Unless the power can be run off a battery voltage or external AC/DC adapter, voltage regulators are needed. They are a key component in electric circuits that need a particular voltage input and output. The input and output voltage, along with the output current, are key considerations when choosing a voltage regulator.

These are used in many everyday applications, as well as in industrial settings. They are found in computers, chargers, and automotive applications, typically in a car's alternator. On a more industrial scale, voltage regulators are used in power generator plants in situations where the circuit controls the plant's output.

Why choose RS for your voltage regulators?

At RS, we stock a selection of voltage regulators that are designed to help you stabilize a circuit. You will find that we are a leading authorized distributor in North America and stock products by well-known names including Microchip Technology Inc., ON Semiconductor, and NTE Electronics.

Should you have any questions, our team is here to help. Get in touch and we can guide you through the products. You can also find advice in our expert content hub.