Voltage Regulators Notes
Voltage Regulators Notes
Section 5
Voltage Regulators
BASIC REGULATOR THEORY for all variations in supply voltages and junction
temperatures. There are several common techniques which
The function of every voltage regulator is to convert a dc can be used to solve design problems using integrated circuit
input voltage into a specific , stable , dc output voltage and regulators. Many of these techniques are discussed in the
maintain that voltage over a wide range of load current and section of the text that outlines error contributions.
input voltage conditions. To accomplish this, the typical
voltage regulator ( Figure 5- 1 ) consists of: SAMPLING ELEMENT
1 . A reference element that provides a known stable The sampling element monitors the output voltage and
voltage level , ( VREF) - Converts it into a level equal to the reference voltage. A
2. A sampling element to sample the output voltage variation in the output voltage causes the feedback voltage
. level. to change to a value which is either greater or less than the
3. An error-amplifier element for comparing the reference voltage. This voltage difference is the error voltage
output voltage sample to the reference and which directs the regulator to make the appropriate response
creating an error signal . and thus correct the output voltage change .
4. A power control element to provide conversion
of the input voltage to the desired output level ERROR AMPLIFIER
over varying load conditions as indicated by the ' The error amplifier of an integrated circuit voltage
error signal . regulator monitors the feedback voltage for comparison with
the reference. It also provides gain for the detected error
level . The output of the error amplifier drives the control
REGULATED j circuit to return the output to the preset level.
INPUT OUTPUT
VOLTAGE CONTROL VOLTAGE
CONTROL ELEMENT
ELEMENT
All the previous elements discussed remain virtually
t unaltered regardless of the type regulator circuit. The control
element , on the other hand , varies widely , depending upon
^ Fr EEDBACK
S the type of regulator being designed . It is the element that
VOLTAGE A determines the classification of the voltage regulator; series,
ERROR AMP L
M shunt , or switching. Figure 5-2 illustrates the three basic
P
M
—_
R
VREF L
E
I Rs
F N
N
T
i n
T G
~
T
V|
i : 1
' LOAD
»
Vo
SERIES
Although actual circuits may vary , the three basic
regulator types are series, shunt , and switching . The four LOAD .
basic functions listed above exist in all three regulator types .
V| V| Vo
VOLTAGE REGULATOR COMPONENTS r
Rs
•REFERENCE ELEMENTS
The reference element forms the foundation of all voltage V L J
regulators since output voltage is directly controlled by the
reference voltage. Variations in the reference voltage will
be interpreted as output voltage errors by the error amplifier
V0 - >—
(b
V| R (IL +
SHUNT
I S1
(c )
V|
on + *o«
SWITCHING
and cause the output voltage to change accordingly . To
achieve the desired regulation , the reference must be staBle Figure 5 - 2. Control Element Configurations
or NAHSII 51
uvxKsmr
LIBRARY
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discussed SHUNT REGULATOR
control element configurations , each of which is The shunt regulator employs a shunt control element in
amount
in detail . These elements contribute an insignificant
is because the which the current is controlled to compensate for varying
of error to the regulator’ s performance . This
beyond the input voltage or changing load conditions . The basic shunt
sampling element monitors the output voltage
regulator is illustrated in Figure 5 -4 .
control element and compensates for its error contributions.
However , the control element directly affects parameters
such as minimum input -to-output voltage differential , circuit Rs 'S
' LOAD . - Vo
efficiency , and power dissipation .
V| - A W-
^ 'S H U N T
REGULATOR CLASSIFICATIONS
I
SERIES REGULATOR
The series regulator derives its name from its cdntrol
element . The output voltage, Vo, is regulated by modulating ,,
f:
|SHUNT
i R1
an active series element , usually a transistor , that functions
as a variable resistor . Changes in the input voltage , Vi , will
result in a change in the equivalent resistance of the series
-
element identified as Rs The product of the resistance , Rs ,
and the load current , II creates a changing input -to-output
R2
I
4
RS
W.* 1
4
V0 = VREF < 1 + —
R1
R2
held constant by varying the voltage drop across the series
-
resistor , Rs , by varying the current Is Is may vary because
of II changes or it may vary because of current , I(Shunt )
- I
through the shunt control element . For example , as II
R1
increases, I(Shunt ) decreases to adjust the voltage drop across
REF
-
Rs In this fashion VQ is held constant .
Vo = Vi - ISRS
Is = II + I( shunt )
VQ = VI — RS[IL + I(shunt )]
V0 Vj - ( Vr - V0)
= The change in shunt current for a changing input voltage is:
v =
( Vi - 0) i[ Rs
:
V0 = vr
- ILRS
Al( shunt )
AVi
~
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,
r -<•" <i>
*
— i
4 - nrvr>H » - vo
vo
f^
V
T * VREF
osc Vz
REF
T
-.
Figure 5 5 Basic Switching Regulator
i -.
Figure 5 6 Basic Zener Reference
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VREF Vz + VBE( QI ) By analyzing the effect of temperature on VREF it can
be shown that the difference between two similar transistors’
VBE(Q 1 ) emitter -base voltages, when operated at different currents is:
Iz
Res kT Ii•
In addition to superior supply voltage independence, the
VBE(Q1) - VBE(Q2) = — ln “
£
circuit illustrated in Figure 5-8 yields improved temperature
.
stability . The reference voltage, VREF is the sum of the where
zener voltage ( Vz) and the base-emitter voltage of
Q 1[ VBE( Q 1)1 A 1 W temperature coefficient can be achieved k = Boltzmann’s constant
°
by balancing the positive temperature coefficient of the zener T = absolute temperature — degrees K
with the negative temperature coefficient of the base-emitter q= charge of an electron
junction of Ql . I - current
„[ - ]+ VBE [ ]
^ ^
which developed from the highly predictable emitter-base
voltage of integrated transistors. Basically, the reference VBE(Q3) V l 0
voltage is derived from the energy-band-gap voltage of the
semiconductor material [ Vgo( sj|jcon) = 1.204 V ) . The basic t
where
band-gap configuration is illustrated in Figure 5-9. The
reference voltage, VREF. in this case is: Vg0 = band-gap potential
VBEO = emitter-base voltage at To
VREF = VBE(Q3 ) + 12 R 2
VREF can then be expressed as:
> -f
- „[ ] [ ]
Vr
VREF l -
^ ^
V + VBEo
R
- VREF
+
R2
£ _IJ_
R3 q " 12 )
"lr
R2
i' Q3
Differentiating with respect to temperature yields
)
= + +
dT T0 T0 R3 q I2
Q2
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Band - gap reference voltage is particularly advantageous
for low -voltage applications ( VREF = 1.2 V ) and it yields
a reference level that is stable even with variations in supply + VREF
and temperature .
SAMPLING ELEMENT
The sampling element used on most integrated circuit
V|0
V|
W -
Ay V| r
voltage regulators is an R 1 / R2 resistor divider network
( Figure 5-10). which can be determined by the output -
voltage-to- reference-voltage ratio .
+ VFB
I
*L
-VREF -, + 2RL2
R2
CONTROL
CIRCUIT
r -
Figure 5 11. Amplifier Model Showing
Input Offset Voltage Effect
R1
V0 = AyV[
R2
REF Vi = VREF - VIO - vFB
L
Z R2
VFB Vo R 1 + R2
Figure 5 10. R 1 / R 2 Ladder Network
-
Sampling Element
V0
VREF - VIO
Since the feedback voltage is determined by ratio and not 1 R2
absolute value , proportional variations in R 1 and R2 have Ay R 1 + R2
no effect on the accuracy of the integrated circuit voltage
regulator. When proper attention is given to the layout of If Ay is sufficiently large
these resistors in an integrated circuit , their contribution to
the error of the voltage regulator will be minimal . The initial
accuracy is the only parameter affected . V0 = ( VREF - Vio) h -1_
L R2
ERROR AMPLIFIER PERFORMANCE
If a stable reference and an accurate output sampling Vio represents an initial error in the output of the integrated
element exist , the error amplifier becomes the primary factor circuit voltage regulator . The simplest method of
determining the performance of the voltage regulator . Typical compensating for this error is to adjust the output voltage
amplifier performance parameters such as offset , common ¬ sampling element R 1 / R2.
mode and supply -rejection ratios, output impedance , and
temperature coefficient affect the accuracy and regulation Offset Change with Temperature
of the voltage regulator . These amplifier performance The technique discussed above compensates for the
parameters will affect the accuracy of the regulator due to amplifier ’ s offset voltage and yields an accurate regulator ,
variations in supply , load , and ambient temperature but only at a specific temperature. In most amplifiers , the
conditions. offset voltage change with temperature is proportional to the
initial offset level. Trimming the output voltage sampling
Offset Voltage element , does not reduce the offset voltage but merely
Offset voltage is viewed by the amplifier as an error counteracts it . At a different ambient temperature, the offset
signal , as illustrated in Figure 5- 11 , and will cause the output voltage changes and , thus, error is again introduced into the
to respond accordingly . voltage regulator. Monolithic integrated circuit regulators
use technology that essentially eliminates offset in integrated
circuit amplifiers. With minimal offset voltage, drift caused
by temperature variations will have little consequence.
5-5
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' Supply Voltage Variations The equivalent error introduced then is :
The amplifier 's power supply and common- mode
rejection ratios are the primary contributors to regulator error VcM
which has been introduced by an unregulated input voltage. COMMON- MODE ERROR
CMRR
In an ideal amplifier, the output voltage is a function of the
differential input voltage only . Realistically , the common ¬
vcc+
VQ = VREF +
VcM
CMRR / \
.
output voltage of the error amplifier then becomes:
{ ii
R2
VS + V0 rLRI_E_ iJ + R2
voltage , and a negative regulator is used to regulate a negative
voltage. However , what is positive and negative may vary ,
Vl(av ) depending upon the ground reference.
2 Figure 5- 13 illustrates conventional positive and negative
voltage regulator applications employing a continuous and
VCM = —2
VS + V0
/
\
K2
R 1 + R2
common ground . For systems operating on a single supply ,
the positive and negative regulators may be interchanged by
floating the ground reference to the load or input . This
-
(vCC + + VCC - | approach to design is recommended only where ground
isolation serves as an advantage to overall system
From this relation it can be seen that unequal variations in performance .
either power supply bus rail will result in a change in the Figures 5- 14 and 5- 15 illustrate a positive regulator in
-
common mode voltage. a negative configuration and a negative regulator in a positive
The common-mode voltage rejection ration (CMRR ) is configuration , respectively .
the ratio of the amplifier’ s differential voltage amplification
to the common - mode voltage amplification . + VREG -
Ayp
CMRR IN OUT
+ V| POSITIVE
aVCM REGULATOR
+ vo
aVD GND
COM •0
aVCM COM T GNO
CMRR
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voltage regulators are : adjustable short -circuit current
VREG limiting , access to the voltage reference element , and
shutdown circuitry .
IN POSITIVE
REGULATOR
DUAL-TRACKING REGULATORS
The dual tracking regulator ( Figure 5- 16 ) provides
V|
COM
l
( V|MUST FLOAT )
-V 0
regulation for two power supply buses , usually one positive
and one negative . The dual -tracking feature assures a
balanced supply system by monitoring the voltage on both
-
Figure 5 14. Positive Regulator in Negative
power supply buses. If either of the voltages sags or goes
Configuration ( V| Must Float )
out of regulation , the tracking regulator will cause the other
voltage to vary accordingly ( A 10 % sag in the positive
voltage will result in a 10 % sag in the negative voltage .
( V| MUST FLOAT ) )
V|
COM T— +v 0
These regulators are , for the most part , restricted
applications such as linear systems where balanced supplies
to
NEGATIVE
offer a definite performance improvement .
IN REGULATOR OUT °
VREG
+ v , V 0+
5-7
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The common-terminal voltage is:
SERIES
REGULATOR VCOM = V0 - VR 1 = vO “ VREF
l|_ *
The input voltage seen by the floating regulator is:
'
^
REG
^l(reg) = Vi — ^COM
Figure 5- 17. Series Regulator
Vl( reg) = Vl - V0 + VREF
The equations that describe these conditions are listed vIt reg ) = VDIFF + VREF
below . PREG > S the power lost in the regulator,I[ is the input
current, IREG S the regulator current and II is the load Since VREF is fixed, the only limitation on the input
current . The differential voltage across the regulator is voltage is the allowable differential voltage. This makes the
,
( V - V0) .
floating regulator especially suited for high- voltage
applications ( V[ > 40 V).
VI I ~ VOIL
PREG =
* Practical values of output voltage are limited to practical
ratios of output-to-reference voltages.
II = IREG + II
R2 _ vO
Since II is much greater than IREG
R1 VREF
II = II The floating regulator exhibits power consumption
characteristics similar to that of the series regulator from
PREG = II < VI - vo) which it is derived, but unlike the series regulator, it can
Floating Regulator also serve as a current regulator as shown in Figure 5 - 19.
The floating regulator (Figure 5 - 18) is a variation of the RL
'
VRI = v0 VL = VREF
Rl + R2 . Rs.
R2 VLOAD
v0 VREF I + IL
Rl RL
VREF
- VDIFF - ILOAD ~
i 1 RT
FLOATING
* t
REGULATOR
tTT FLOATING l Rs i
1
Figure 5- 18. Floating Regulator Figure 5 - 19. Floating Regulator as a
Constant-Current Regulator
5 -8
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SHUNT REGULATOR
Figure 5 - 20 is t e
_. . .
Vi - l[ Rs
The shunt regulator, illustrated in The short -circuit current of the shunt regulator then
a fixed resistor as its
simplest of all regulators. It employs becomes:
series pass element .
Rs Vo 0
v , — V0
IL
- —Vl
S
H
R
E
G
U
1* isc -
i
Rs
L
U
A SWITCHING REGULATORS to the
The switching regulator lends itself primarily
N
T T
where power
O
higher power applications or those applications
R concern.
supply and system efficiency are of the utmost
regulator operates
“
X" Unlike the series regulator, the switching
regulator
its control element in an on or off mode.
Switching
element modes are illustrated in Figure
5 -22.
Figure 5 - 20. Shunt Regulator control
AVi
\ For changes in Vj: AIz =
Rs
= - A II ON-STATE
For changes in II: AIZ
The inherent short -circuit -proof feature of the shunt
PSW = VSW SW
VSW = 0 V '
= OW
regulator makes it particularly attractive for some PSW
applications. The output voltage will be maintained until the vL -
load current required is equal to the current through the series
element ( see Figure 5 -21).
IL = !s dz =
°
)
> sw
r
V| - Vo
Rs T
IU
CJ
<
O
•z
r Vo
3
h
LU
- OFF STATE
PSW ” Vsw
l $W = 0 A ' SW
K PSW = 0 W
O
B. -
I
- .
Figure 5 22 Switching Voltage Regulator Modes
i Lx
In this manner, the control element is subjected to a high
current at a very low voltage or a high differential voltage
~ v XL- at a very low current. In either case, power dissipation in
vlI -
V VQ
Rs the control element is minimal. Changes in the load current
or input voltage are compensated for by varying the on-off
- .
Figure 5 21 Output Voltage vs Shunt ratio (duty cycle) of the switch without increasing the internal
Current of a Shunt Regulator power dissipated in the switching regulator . See
Figure 5- 23(a) .
Since the shunt regulator cannot supply any current, For the output voltage to remain constant, the net charge
additional current required by the load will result in reducing in the capacitor must remain constant . This means the charge
the output voltage to zero.
delivered to the capacitor must be dissipated in the load.
5 -9
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V ,
o
— t -
'L '
-
O -
*off -
4X
• T
" ifJc
li
1
1
k
9 3X
O
2X
T (a )
' L ( pk ) —
AQ+
)
r?
AJ
cr
0
'L \ ^Q —
5
4
T
AQ + J_dL( pk ) ~ II) 2 / Vi f
_ 1
2 iL(pk ) \ VC T
AQ - IL T
1
2
t /
/
—
VC
Vi Fixed On Time , Variable Frequency
One technique of voltage regulation is to maintain a fixed
or predetermined "on ” time ( t ) , the time the input voltage
is being applied to the LC filter) and vary the duty cycle by
_ j. Aupk )
^
- IL / VA varying the frequency ( f ) . This method makes voltage
2 \ iL( pk ) AVC /.
conversion applications design easier ( step-up , step-down ,
invert ) since the energy stored in the inductor of the LC filter I
By setting AQ + equal to AQ - , the relationship of during the on -time ( which is fixed ) determines the amount
II of power deliverable to the load . Thus calculation of the
and iL(pk ) f r AQ = 0 can be determined ;
° inductor is fairly straightforward .
=
1
- iL( pk )
Vl __ t
L =-
V
t
2 VC T I
5- 10
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where capability to design a switching voltage regulator that will
L = value of inductance in microhenrys operate at a well defined minimum frequency under full load
V = differential voltage in volts conditions .
I = required inductor current defined by the
t =
load in amps
on -time in microseconds -
I
LD
E
The fixed -on-time approach is also advantageous from O
the standpoint that a consistent amount of energy is stored
in the inductor during the fixed on-time period , this o
simplifies the design of the inductor by defining the operating f - FREQUENCY
parameters to which the inductor is subjected . The operating
Figure 5 -25 . Frequency vs Load Current for
characteristic of a fixed -on-time switching voltage regulator
Fixed Off-Time SVR
is a varying frequency , which changes directly with changes
in the load. This can be seen in Figure 5-24 . The fixed -off-time approach also allows a dc current to
be established in the inductor under increased load conditions ,
-
H
i
thus reducing the ripple current while maintaining the same
average current . The maximum current experienced in the
LU
CC inductor under transient load conditions is not as well defined
io as that found in the fixed -on-time regulator . Thus additional
precautions should be taken to ensure that the inductor does
o not saturate .
f - FREQUENCY Fixed-Frequency , Variable Duty Cycle
F igure 5-24. Frequency vs Load Current for The fixed -frequency switching regulator varies the duty
Fixed On-Time SVR cycle of the pulse train in order to change the average power
he fixed-frequency concept is particularly advantageous for
Fixed Off Time , Variable Frequency r systems employing transformer-coupled output stages. The
In the fixed-off time
- switching voltage regulator , the' -
" fixed frequency permits efficient design of the associated
average dc voltage is varied by changing the on time ( t ) of magnetics. Transformer coupling also has advantages in
the switch while maintaining a fixed off-time ( toFF ) - The single and multiple voltage-conversion applications . The
fixed -off -time switching voltage regulator behaves in a fixed-frequency regulator will establish a dc current through
manner opposite that of the fixed-on-time regulator. the inductor ( for increased load conditions) to maintain the
As the load current increases, the on time is made to required load current , with minimal ripple current. The
increase, thus decreasing the operating frequency ; this is single-ended and transformer-coupled configurations are
illustrated in Figure 5-25. This approach provides the illustrated in Figure 5-26.
V|
V0 V , Vo v,
° — I N
V|
V|
I
o
FLYBACK PUSH -PULL
( b) TRANSFORMER-COUPLED CIRCUITS
Figure 5 - 26 . Switching Voltage Regulator Configurations
5- 11
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These types of switching regulators can thus be operated Load Current
with high efficiency to provide low- voltage , regulated outputs iLmax
from a high -voltage , unregulated supply or vice versa . The The maximum load current deliverable from the
switching frequency should be established at the optimum integrated circuit regulator . If internal current
value for the switching components of the supply limiting is not provided , external protection should
( transformer , switching transistor , inductor , and filter be provided . This is a functional limit that may be
capacitor ) . High frequency operation is distinctly further limited by PD max -
advantageous because the cost , weight , and volume of both
L and C filter elements are reduced . Power Dissipation
However , the frequency at which the effective series
resistance of the filter capacitor equals its capacitive reactance
^Dmax
The maximum power that can be dissipated within
is the maximum allowable frequency . the regulator. Power dissipation is the product of
Operation above 20 kHz is desirable to eliminate the the input-to-output differential voltage and the load
possibility of audible noise . Choosing an operating frequency current , and is normally specified at or below a
that is too high will result in power switching transistor losses given case temperature. This rating is usually based
as well as “ catch ” diode losses. The higher cost of these on a 150 °C junction temperature limit . The power
high performance components must be balanced against the rating is an SOA limit unless the integrated circuit
reduced cost , size , and weight of the L and C components regulator provides an internal thermal protection .
when determining the optimum frequency for a specific
application. Output Voltage of an Adjustable- Voltage Regulator
VOmin
REGULATOR SAFE OPERATING AREA The minimum output voltage a regulator is capable
of regulating. This is usually a factor of the
The safe operating area ( SOA ) is a term used to define regulator’ s internal reference and is a functional
the input and output voltage range , and load current range limit .
within which any device is designed to operate reliably . VOmax
Exceeding these limits will result in a catastrophic failure The maximum output voltage a regulator is capable
or will render the device temporarily inoperative, depending of regulating. This is largely dependent on the input
upon the device and its performance characteristics. voltage and is a functional limit .
Integrated circuit voltage regulators with internal current
limiting, thermal and short-circuit protection will merely shut External Pass Transistor
down . External components , such as pass transistors on the For applications requiring additional load current ,
other hand , may respond with catastrophic failure. integrated circuit voltage regulator capabilities may be
boosted with tfie addition of an external pass transistor . When
REGULATOR SOA CONSIDERATIONS employed , the external pass transistor , in addition to the
Although particular design equations depend upon the voltage regulator , must be protected against operation outside
type of integrated circuit voltage regulator used and its its safe operating area . Operation outside the safe operating
application , there are several boundaries that apply to all area is catastrophic to most discrete transistors.
regulator circuits for safe , reliable performance. ICmax
The maximum current the transistor is capable of
Input Voltage sustaining . Icmax now becomes the maximum
The limits on the input voltage are derived from three current the regulator circuit is capable of delivering
considerations: to the load . Associated with Icmax is a collector-
Vlmax emitter voltage ( VCE = V ,- VQ). If the product
The absolute maximum rated input voltage as ( Vi - Vomax )ICmax exceeds the SOA then
referenced to the regulator ’ s ground . This is a safe will have to be derated . This will then become a
Icmax
operating area (SOA ) destruct limit . functional limit instead of a catastrophic limit .
( Vi — Vo)min Icmax related to power dissipation and junction
The input -to-output differential voltage also referred or case temperature . Icmax must again be derated
to as the dropout voltage , at which the regulator if the thermal or power ratings at which it is
ceases to function properly . This is a functional specified are exceeded . The resulting derated ICmax
limit. should continue to be considered as a catastrophic
"
^Olmax
The maximum input -to-output differential voltage .
limit . Actual Icmax limits and derating information
will appear on the individual transistor specification .
Usually , the regulator’s power dissipation is VCEmax
exceeded prior to the ( Vi - V0)max limit . This is The maximum collector-emitter voltage that can be
an SOA level that can be limited by the allowable applied to the transistor in the off -state . Exceeding
Power Dissipation ( PDrnax ). this limit can be catastrophic .
5- 12
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vOlr«fl )
The maximum power that can be dissipated
specified at a
by the
specific
V|
R
E -O RCL
Vo
transistor . This is usually G
junction or case temperature . If the transistor is U
L RL
operated at higher temperatures , the maximum A
power must be derated in accordance with the T
operating rules specified in the transistor s 0
applicable specification . Prolonged operation above R
the transistor ' s maximum power rating will result T
in degradation or destruction of the transistor .
-
Figure 5 27. Reverse Bias Protection
RCL = —10
RL % ERROR = 9.1 %
CURRENT LIMITING TECHNIQUES This also yields a short-circuit current that is an order of
The type of current limiting used depends primarily on magnitude greater than the normal operating load current .
the safe operating area of the pass element used . The three
basic current limiting techniques are series resistor , constant _
~
vo< reg)
current , and fold-back current limiting. iUnorm )
RCL + RL( norm )
Series Resistor
This is the simplest method for short -circuit protection . ,isc = vO( reg )
The short -circuit current is determined by the current - limiting RCL
-
resistor RCL illustrated in Figure 5-28.
ISC = II iL( norm )
vO = vo( reg )- lLRCL
This technique is obviously inefficient since it requires
A short -circuit condition occurs when VQ = 0, thus: using a regulator or pass element with current capabilities
in excess ( 11 X) of its normal operating capabilities.
The performance characteristics of a series resistance
ISC = IL @ ( V0 = 0) =
current limited regulator are illustrated in Figure 5-29.
RCL
-
5 13
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I
- Voir > supplying the base of Q2 is diverted, thus decreasing the drive
* *
.100% current to Q3, the regulator ' s pass transistor . The
p— NORMAL OPERATING performance characteristics of a constant -current limited
RANGE regulator are illustrated in Figure 5-32.
<
O NOMINAL
UJ
OPERATING
£ ERROR <
V/.
O
o
QL
' L ( nom )
LOAD CURRENT l
Figure 5 - 2V . Performance C haracteristics of a
Series Resistance Current- Limited Regulator OUTPUT CURRENT
I
I
— II I!
I
“
SC
VTH
' RCL
NOMINAL PD = (20 V
IoUT):
I
<
Q2 0
-
V j CONTROL I O Q1
-.
I
Q
§
CURRENT -LIMIT
REGULATOR
^.
SENSE ELEMENT
ISC
LOAD CURRENT
Figure 5-31. Constant Current Limiting for
External Pass Transistor Applications Figure 5- 33, Fold- Back Current Limiting
5- 14
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The fold - back current - limiting circuit of Figure 5-34 The approach illustrated in Figure 5-34 allows a more
behaves in a manner similar to the constant -current limit efficient design because the collector current of the pass
circuit illustrated in Figure 5-31 . In Figure 5-33, the potential transistor is less during short -circuit conditions than it is
developed across the current limit sense resistor ( RCL) must during normal operation . This means that during short -circuit
not only develop the base -emitter voltage required to turn conditions , when the voltage across the pass transistor is
on Q 1 , but it must develop sufficient potential to overcome maximum , the collector-emitter current is reduced . As
the voltage across resistor R 1 . illustrated in Figure 5-35, fold - back current limiting fits
closer to the typical performance characteristics of the
Vo + RCLIL transistor , thus allowing a better design match of the pass
VBE( QI ) = RCLA x Ri transistor to the regulator.
R 1 + R2
THREE TERMINAL REGULATORS
VBE( QI ) ( Ri + R 2 ) + VpRi
MK =
RCLR 2 Three-terminal IC regulators have been especially useful
to the designer of small , regulated power supplies or on -card
As the load current requirement increases above IK , the regulators . Three-terminal regulators are popular because
output voltage ( VQ ) decays . The decreasing output voltage they are small and require a minimum number of external
results in a proportional decrease in voltage across RI . Thus, components.
less current is required through RCL to develop sufficient
potential to maintain the forward- biased condition of Q 1 . This STABILIZATION
can be seen in the above expression for IK AS VQ decreases ,
- Mounting and using three-terminal regulators usually
IK decreases. Under short -circuit conditions ( VQ = 0) IK presents no problem , however , there are several precautions
becomes: that should be observed . Positive regulators, in general , use
npn emitter follower output stages whereas negative
isc IK <® ( VQ = 0)
VBE(Q 1 ) r R1 regulators use npn common-emitter stages with the load
connected to the collector. The emitter follower output stage
RCL L R2. configuration is not used in negative regulators because
monolithic pnp series- pass transistors are more difficult to
EXTERNAL PASS make . Due to their output stage configuration , positive
TRANSISTOR
Q3
' LOAD regulators are more stable than negative regulators .
Therefore , the practice of bypassing positive regulators may
rCL be omitted in some applications. It is good practice, however,
R1 to use bypass capacitors at all times.
Q2
For a positive regulator , a 0.33 /xF bypass capacitor
-
V
| CONTROL|
should be used on the input terminals. While not necessary
for stability , an output capacitor of 0.1 /xF may be used to
improve the transient response of the regulator . These
REGULATOR capacitors should be on or as near as possible to the regulator
R2
terminals. See Figure 5-36.
.
’
CURRENT - LIMIT When using a negative regulator , bypass capacitors are
SENSE ELEMENT
a must on both the input and output . Recommended values
Figure 5 - 34. Fold - Back Current Limit Configuration are 2 jxF on the input and 1 #xF on the output . It is considered
HI
u
< FOLD -BACK CURRENT
LIMITING
o
>
£ T CONSTANT -CURRENT
n LIMITING
5 a
^x mu
O > -0V| V
U
UJ
V ,-VQ-' KRCL - TYPICAL TRANSISTOR
SOA CURVE
O
u
K
'
LOAD CURRENT /COLLECTOR CURRENT 03
Figure 5- 35 . Fold - Back Current Limit Safe Operating Area
5- 15
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good practice to include a 0. 1 -JIF capacitor on the output to 1 N 4001
improve the transient response ( Figure 5-37) . These
capacitors may be mylar , ceramic , or tantalum , provided that
— H—
- -I ]-
X
I
+20 V MA 7815C +15 VQ
they have good high frequency characteristics. INPUT
0.1 iF 1 N 4001
*
0.33 jiF :
I_
1—
I
POSITIVE
+ \/|
REG
w0 o.i MFT 4-
r
Jr-
0.33 MF 0.1 MF
T 2.0 nF i .o F ;
^ 1 N 4001
-20 V -
INPUT
-| MA 7915C [- -15 V0
- f-
-
Figure 5 36. Positive Regulator 1 N 4001
I -
Figure 5 38. Regulated Dual Supply
-V, NEGATIVE
REG
Sr-.t -V0 In Figure 5-38, 1 N4001 diodes are placed directly across
2|iF 1 MF
u 0.1 #iF the regulators, input to output. When a capacitor is connected
to the regulator output , if the input is shorted to ground , the
only path for discharging the capacitor normally is back
through the regulator. This could be ( and usually is)
destructive to the regulator . The diodes across the regulator
-
Figure 5 37. Negative Regulator divert any discharge current , thus protecting the regulator .
+
••
— i
I INI
|
2
LM 317
01
OUT
INPUT
i n < R1
+ T 10 uF OUTPUT
ci 2000 M F 270 1 N 4002 iD2 +1.2 V TO 17 V
I
JjC
35 V 3
— 10 MF -^-
-* v
/>
~
R 2 5 kU
AT 1.5 A
-
Figure 5 39. Positive Adjustable Series Regulator
5- 16
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i
the position occupied by D 1 on all positive regulators to components especially , should be located as close
prevent reverse biasing . This becomes more important at as possible
to the regulator control circuit . In addition to
higher output voltages since the energy stored in the affecting a
regulator's susceptibility to spurious oscillation , the
capacitors is larger . Bypassing the adjustment terminal ( C2 )
layout
of the regulator also affects its accuracy and performance .
improves ripple rejection . Output capacitor C3 is added to
improve the transient response of the regulator . Input Ground Loop
In both the negative ( LM 337 ) and the positive ( LM 317 ) Improper placement of the input capacitor can induce
series adjustable regulators there is an internal diode from unwanted ripple on the output voltage . Care should be taken
the input to the output . If the total output capacitance is less to ensure that currents in the input circuit do not flow in the
than 25 jtF, Dl may be omitted . ground line that is in common with the load return . This
would cause an error voltage resulting from the peak currents
THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS of the filter capacitor flowing through the line resistance of
] Like any semiconductor circuit , lower operating the load return . See Figure 5 -40 for an illustration of this
temperature greatly improves reliability of a voltage effect .
regulator . It is good practice to make the input - to-output drop
across a three -terminal regulator as low as possible while Output Ground Loop
maintaining good regulation . Larger voltage drops mean Similar in nature to the problem discussed on the input ,
more power dissipated in the regulator . Although most
excessive lead length in the ground return line of the output
regulators are rated to withstand junction temperatures as results in additional error . Because the load current flows
high as 150 °C , heat sinking should be provided to maintain in the ground line , an error equivalent to the load current
the lowest possible temperature . multiplied by the line resistance ( R 30 will be introduced in
the output voltage .
LAYOUT GUIDELINES
As implied in the previous sections , component layout
Remote Voltage Sense
and orientation plays an important , but often overlooked , role
The voltage regulator should be located as close as
in the overall performance of the regulator . The importance possible to the load . This is true especially if the output
of this role depends upon such things as power level , the
voltage sense circuitry is internal to the regulator s control
type of regulator , the overall regulator circuit complexity ,
device . Excessive lead length will result in an error voltage
and the environment in which the regulator operates . The developed across the line resistance ( R4' )
general layout rules , as well as remote voltage sensing , and
component layout guidelines are discussed in the following
text .
V0 = V0( reg ) ~ 0*2' + R3' + R4 O II
+ R 2' IrCg
LAYOUT DESIGN FACTORS
Most integrated circuit regulators use wide - band
ERROR = IL( R 3 / + R4 O - IIregR 2'
transistors to optimize their response . These regulators must If the voltage sense is available externally , the effect of
be compensated to ensure stable closed -loop operation . This the line resistance can be minimized . By referencing the low
I compensation can be counteracted by a layout which has current external voltage sense input to the load , losses in the
excess external stray capacitance and line inductance . For output line are compensated . Since the current in the sense
this reason , circuit lead lengths should be held to a minimum . line is very small , error introduced by its line resistance is
Lead lengths associated with external compensation or pass negligible ( Figure 5-41 ) .
transistor elements are of primary concern . These
REGULATO R
RECTIFIER RECTIFIER
IN OUT
RCL R4
IN OUT
C|
SENSE
——
C| I SENSE
G
V
«L vO ( r«gl
I V|
^ 7
'1 R2
R3
*v\
HI
(a ) TYPICAL LAYOUT ( b) LAYOUT ERROR CONTRIBUTIONS
Figure 5 -40 . Circuit Layout Showing Error Contributions
I
5- 17
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REGULATOR
RECTIFIER
-
H I G H C U R R E N T P A T H ,.
*
RCL
IN OUT
SENSE
G ?
L O W -C U R R E N T
LOOP V0 ( r „
|
RL
<L
-
Figure 5 41. Proper Regulator Layout
Thermal Profile Concerns The particular configuration used depends upon the
All semiconductor de \ ices are affected by temperature ; application . The half - wave circuit [ Figure 5-3( a )| is used in
therefore , care should be taken to the placement of these low -current applications. This is because the single rectifier
devices so that their thermal properties are not additive . This diode experiences the total load current and its conversion
is especially important where external pass transistors or efficiency is less than 50 % . The full - wave configurations
reference elements are concerned . [ Figures 5-43( b ) and 5-43(c ) J are used for higher current
applications. The characteristic output voltage waveforms ot
INPUT SUPPLY DESIGN these configurations are illustrated in Figure 5-44 .
When the power source is an ac voltage , the transformer ,
rectifier, and input filter design are as important as the
regulator design itself for optimum system performances . TRANSFORMER
This section presents input supply and filter design SECONDARY LOAD
information for designing a basic capacitor input supply .
AC -w- JL DC
INPUT X OUTPUT TRANSFORMER
SECONDARY
T
LOAD
TRANS¬
I FORMER RECTIFIER FILTER
I
-
Figure 5 44 . Rectifier Output Noltage Waveforms -
5- 18
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Before the input supply and its associated filter
can be CAPACITOR INPUT FILTER DESIGN
of The most practical approach to a capacitor - input filter
designed , the voltage , current , and ripple requirements
The load , as far as the input design remains the graphical approach presented by
its load must be fully defined .
supply is concerned , is the regulator circuit . Therefore
, the O. H . Schade 1 in 1943. The curves illustrated in Figures 5 45 -
become the through 5-48 contain all of the design information required
input requirements of the regulator itself
for full-wave and half - wave rectifier circuits.
governing conditions.
Because the input requirements of the regulator control
circuit govern the input supply and filter design
, it is easiest * O. H . Schade. " Analysis of Rectifier Operation .
Proc. IRE . VOL 31.
primary . 343. 1943.
to work backwards from the load to the transformer
0 05
100 I I I I
Rs
O 0.5
V ( PK )
VC RL
c
o
30
A
/
70 f 3
/
10
/ 12.5
50
% 15
!0
Rs_
Vc RL
50
V.
%
V ( PK )
;5
30
7/ 35
V, V/A
40
%fi
. 50
30
WJYA
gA
.
-n
70
'7 7
80
90
100
-
Figure 5 45. Relation of Applied Alternating Peak Voltage to
-
Direct Output Voltage in Half Wave Capacitor Input Circuits -
( From O. H. Schade , Proc . IRE , Vol 31 p 343 1943 ) . . . .
5- 19
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-
Figures 5 45 and 5-46 illustrate the ratio of the dc output
.
voltage developed ( VC) to the applied peak input voltage
and probably of more concern, this increases the surge
current experienced by the fectifier diodes during turn-on
( V( PK ) ). as a function of UJCRL. for half- wave and full- wave of the supply . It is important to realize that the surge current
rectified signals respectively For a full- wave rectified is limited only by the series resistance R$.
application, the voltage reduction is less then 10 %
for .CRL > lOand RS/RL <0- 5 % - AS illustrated, the voltage
O
^U L L M A V E
as
V ( PK !
)
•
X + - VC < RL
0.05
0.1
0.5
.
-
rULLIIMV C Drtl
ifep
90
V, 4
<RL
I 4 cl * / 6
/ 10
12.5
15
20
RS %
vC
25 RL
V (PK ) 60
30
35
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
- .
Figure 5 46 Relation of Applied Alternating Peak Voltage to
-
Direct Output Voltage in Full Wave Capacitor-Input Circuits
. . .
( From O H. Schade, Proc. IRE Vol 31 p 344 1943
, )..
5-20
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The maximuii istantaneous surge current is V /Rs. VOLTAGE REGULATOR
The time constant IT ) of capacitor C is : ^ TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
SERIES REGULATORS
r = RsC
As a rule of thumb, the surge current will not damage Input Regulation
the diode if: The change in output voltage, often expressed as a
percentage of output voltage, for a change in input voltage
• SURGE < lF( SURGE )max and r < 8.3 ms from one level to another .
NOTE: Sometimes this characteristic is normalized with
Figure 5-48 illustrates the relationships between the respect to the input voltage change.
.
ripple factor rf WCRL, and RS / RL The ripple factor is the
ratio of the rms value of the ripple component of the output Ripple Rejection
voltage, expressed as a percent of the nominal dc output The ratio of the peak -to-peak input ripple voltage, to the
voltage. peak -to-peak output ripple voltage.
NOTE : This is the reciprocal of ripple sensitivity .
£ 10
0 7
0.02
5 r' 0.05
''O.l
£ Co
% a
4 „0.5* CE-i
<
-1
—2 i
cc
3 2 10 *
V)
1
ec
- 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.7 1 2 4 7 10 20 40 70 100 200 400 700 1000
100
70
_ 40 0.02
G
0.05
2
0.1
20
5 0.2
& 0.5 tr
5
< 10 (A
u.
2 10
2 30
£ 4 100
5 -21
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Sensitivity
Output Voltage Change with Temperature
The percentage of change in the output voltage for a
The ratio of the peak -to- peak output ripple voltage
,
voltage to change in temperature . This is the net change over the total
sometimes expressed as a percentage of output
,
ripple voltage . temperature range .
the peak -to- peak input
NOTE: This is the reciprocal of ripple rejection .
Output Voltage Long-Term Drift
Output Regulation The change in output voltage over a long period of time .
The change in output voltage , often expressed as a
percentage of output voltage, for a change in load current Output Noise Voltage
from one level to another . The rms output voltage , sometimes expressed as a
percentage of the dc output voltage , with constant load and
Temperature Coefficient of Output Voltage (aVo) no input ripple .
The ratio of the change in output voltage , usually
expressed as a percentage of output voltage , to a change in Current - Limit Sense- Voltage
temperature . This is the average value for the total A voltage that is a function of the load current and is
temperature change . normally used for control of the current-limiting circuitry .
v^ i nuui 1 PAPiMFTFR
r MriAA 1V1 L 1 Cn
\ 1—
A
RS/ RL
Nk \j HiALF -WAVE 1
'
10
30
> Vs
0.1
FIULL -WAVE 'V 1
10
\ 'N
' 30
V
A
V ^\
\
KM
0.4 0.7 1 2
wCRL —
4
C IN
7 10
FARADS , RL IN
20
OHMS ,
40
w
- 70 100 200 400
2 irf , f = LINE FREQUENCY
1
700 1000 2000
Figure 5 -48 . Root - Mean-Square Ripple Voltage for Capacitor- Input Circuits
( From O. H . Schade , Proc . IRE , Vol. 31 , p. 346 , 1943 )
5-22
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Reference Input Voltage ( Vref ) ( of an adjustable shunt
Feedback Sense V oltage regulator)
voltage , used
The voltage that is a function of the output The voltage at the reference input terminal with respect
for control of the regulator . to the anode terminal .
5 -23
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NEGATIVE OUTPUT REGULA TORS
DEVICE OUTPUT VOLTAGE MINIMUM DIFFERENTIAL OUTPUT CURRENT AVAILABLE VOLTAGE
SERIES TOLERANCE VOLTAGE RATING SELECTIONS
UA 7900C ± 5% 2 V to 3 V 1.5 A 8.5 V to 24 V
MC 79 LOOAC ± 5% 2V 100 mA 3.5 V to 15 V
uA 79 MOOC * ± 5% 2 V to 3 V 500 mA 7.5 V to 24 V
5- 24
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