Embedded Computing Design

Switching regulators are common in modern electronic devices due to their ability to provide stable and efficient power compared to linear regulators. Their efficiency comes from the switching element operating in two distinct states, fully on, or completely off. This minimizes power dissipation within the regulator itself, achieving upwards of 95% efficiency.

Efficiency is a critical metric used to quantify how effectively a system transforms electrical energy from one form to another. It's expressed as a percentage obtained by dividing the output power (usable electrical power delivered) by the input power (electrical power supplied). In essence, efficiency reflects a device or system's capability to minimize energy losses during conversion.