Power Supply Ripple and Noise Testing Solution

Ripples are periodic voltage variations or fluctuations in the output of a power supply and are AC interference signals superimposed on the stable DC output. Measured in millivolts (mV), ripples are a component that is synchronous with the switching frequency. Ripple characteristics vary across different power supplies and can result from power supply design choices, power filter performance, load variations, or other external disturbances.
Unlike ripples, noise is a high-frequency component appearing between output terminals as non-periodic random interference. Essentially, power supply noise comprises discontinuous, irregular voltage or current spikes caused by various internal or external disturbances to the system, such as suboptimal circuit design, improper wiring, and poor contact.

Scenarios

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Low Noise Power Supply Testing

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Ripple Testing in Power Supply Design

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Power Filter Ripple Testing

Solution

This solution utilizes SIGLENT high-resolution oscilloscopes paired with the SAP4000P power rail probe featuring low noise, a wide offset range, and high input impedance for ripple and noise testing of power supplies. The implementation includes detailed considerations and debugging tips for optimal measurement accuracy. For the evaluation of interference impacts on high-speed signal transmission, users can leverage eye diagram and jitter analysis features available on SDS6000Pro, SDS6000L, and SDS7000A.
 

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