Hybrid regulator

Abstract

A hybrid regulator in which a switching regulator and a series regulator are inter-connected in a desired manner. In the hybrid regulator, most of current required for a load is supplied from the switching regulator which has a poor regulation performance while having high efficiency. The hybrid regulator also includes a sensing unit for the rapid sensing of the current supplied to the load. Based on the operation of the sensing unit, the series regulator, which has a poor power efficiency while exhibiting a excellent regulation performance, supplies or absorbs only a small amount of ripple current. The series regulator serves as an independent voltage source whereas the switching regulator serves as a dependent current source. Accordingly, the hybrid regulator ensures a superior regulation performance while achieving high efficiency.