A power supply provides electricity-to-electricity loads in devices. They convert one form of electricity to another. Some control the output voltage to a steady level or a compatible value and are called regulated power supplies. They control the current and stabilise it, avoiding sudden fluctuations and power surges. Power supplies that convert AC current to DC current are common and widely used. Electronic devices use two main types of power supplies, linear frequency and switching. Linear mode power supplies are simple in design but can get bulky with additions for high-current devices. They produce a regulated output voltage through an active voltage divider.
Unregulated power supplies, which are AC powered, use a transformer to turn the voltage from the mains to lower levels. To produce a DC from AC, it uses a rectifier. Voltage of the linear unregulated power supply depends on the load and variations of AC supply. This is not safe for vital, expensive and certain devices. A regulated linear power supply is used in such instances to maintain the voltage at a stable value and to protect the electronic applications against fluctuations. A regulator can lower the ripple and noise of the output DC. A switched-mode power supply can transform the AC input at the mains to DC without a mains transformer. The DC voltage is then switched on and off at high speed by electronic switching circuitry. The voltage is passed through a high frequency inductor. These are a type of regulated power supplies.
Switched-mode power supplies are sometimes used in LED lighting. A LED power supply provides DC for LED lighting applications. LED lighting is energy efficient; lasts longer and is ideal to be used outdoors in various weather conditions. LEDs have thousands of naturally emitting colours, contain no mercury, turn on instantly, are not fragile, dimmable over a wide range and withstand impact. A LED power supply enhances efficiency and reliability and use switched-mode technology. These have in-built constant current operations and the output voltage can be set to the right amounts. Protection against overheating, overload, over voltage and short circuit is provided by the power supply. LED signs, backlighting, decorative lighting, stage lighting, display lighting, moving signs and many other use LED power supplies. They are moisture and dust resistant and ideal to be used in any location and for any LED lighting purpose.