From the difference between a voltage regulator and a transformer, in terms of word meaning alone, a voltage regulator is an electrical appliance that stabilizes unstable voltage fluctuations to a set value, and the output voltage will not have significant fluctuations. Transformers are electronic components that convert voltage through electromagnetic means. Transformers mainly play a role in increasing and decreasing voltage in circuits. Next, let me explain the difference between a voltage regulator and a transformer?
1. Different definitions
A transformer is a device that uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to change the alternating voltage. A voltage regulator is a device that stabilizes the output voltage.
2. Different composition
The main components of a transformer are the primary coil, secondary coil, and iron core (magnetic core). A voltage regulator consists of a voltage regulating circuit, a control circuit, and a servo motor.
3. Different functions
The main functions of a transformer are voltage conversion, current conversion, impedance conversion, isolation, voltage stabilization (magnetic saturation transformer), etc. The function of a voltage regulator is to stabilize the power supply voltage that fluctuates greatly and does not meet the requirements of electrical equipment within its set value range, so that various circuits or electrical equipment can work normally at the rated operating voltage.
4. The principle is different
Transformers are stationary electrical appliances made using the principle of electromagnetic induction. The principle of a voltage regulator is that some electrical appliances contain coil components, which can generate eddy currents that obstruct the current during the initial stage of power on. The generation of eddy currents not only weakens the instantaneous voltage at the time of electrical start-up, resulting in slow start-up, but also strengthens the instantaneous voltage generated after a circuit break, which may cause sparks and damage the circuit. At this point, a voltage regulator is needed to protect the normal operation of the circuit.