Understanding Linear Regulators and Their Key Performance Parameters

Low-dropout regulators, commonly known as LDOs, are used extensively in a wide variety of electronic applications across many different industries. An LDO is generally perceived as a simple and inexpensive way to regulate and control an output voltage that is delivered from a higher input voltage supply. However, cost and simplicity are not the only reason for their widespread use. In fact, today's systems are getting more complex, noise sensitive and power hungry with every new design. The widespread use of switching power supplies at all power levels means that designers must spend more time avoiding noise coupling and interference, while improving system efficiency, so cost and simplicity cannot be the only driver.