Question
Which of the following describes a three-terminal voltage regulator?
Answer Options
- A) A series current source
- B) A series regulator
- C) A shunt regulator
- D) A shunt current source
Correct Answer: B
Explanation
A three-terminal voltage regulator (like the common 78xx series) is a highly integrated, self-contained component that offers simplicity and stability in power supply design. It requires only input, output, and ground connections.
This device fundamentally operates by placing its internal transistor (the control element) in series with the load and the unregulated input source. It then controls the transistor’s conduction to drop the excess voltage, dissipating the surplus energy as heat. Therefore, it is described as a series regulator (or series linear regulator).
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