Ripple Voltage Calculator:
Enter the values of load current, I(A), frequency of AC component, f(Hz) and capacitance, C(F) to determine the value of ripple voltage, Vpp(V).
Ripple Voltage Formula:
Ripple voltage is a critical parameter in power supply circuits, particularly in the output of rectifiers where it represents the residual periodic variation (AC component) of the voltage within a power supply which has been derived from an alternating current (AC) source.
This AC component is superimposed on the direct current (DC) level of the output voltage.
Lowering ripple voltage is essential for improving the performance and longevity of electronic circuits that require stable DC voltages.
Ripple voltage, Vpp(V) in volts is calculated by dividing the value of load current, I(A) in amperes by two times of frequency of AC component, f(Hz) in Hertz and capacitance, C(F) in farads.
Ripple voltage, Vpp(V) = I(A) / 2 * f(Hz) * C(F)
Vpp(V) = ripple voltage in volts, V.
I(A) = load current in amperes, A.
f(Hz) = frequency in Hertz, Hz.
C(F) = capacitance in farads, F.
Ripple Voltage Calculation:
- Calculate the ripple voltage in a full-wave rectifier circuit:
Given:
- Load Current, I(A) = 0.5 A
- Frequency, f(Hz) = 60 Hz
- Capacitance, C(F) = 1000 µF (or 0.001 F)
Ripple voltage, Vpp(V) = I(A) / 2 * f(Hz) * C(F)
Vpp(V) = 0.5 / 2 * 60 * 0.001
Vpp(V) = 0.5 / 0.12
Vpp(V) =4.17V.
- Determine the required capacitance to achieve a ripple voltage of 1V peak-to-peak:
Given:
- Load Current, I(A) = 1 A
- Frequency, f(Hz) = 50 Hz
- Desired Ripple Voltage, Vpp(V) = 1 V
Ripple voltage, Vpp(V) = I(A) / 2 * f(Hz) * C(F)
C(F) = I(A) / 2 * f(Hz) * Vpp(V)
C(F) = 1 / 2 * 50 * 1
C(F) = 1 / 100
C(F) = 0.01F.
Applications and Considerations:
- Power Supplies: Reducing ripple voltage is essential for the stability and efficiency of power supplies used in various electronic equipment.
- Audio Equipment: Low ripple voltages are critical in audio equipment to prevent noise and ensure clear sound output.