What is the difference between switching and linear power supplies?
The main difference is how they convert the AC line supply voltage to DC output volage. Switched-mode (switching) power supplies first rectify the AC line supply, and then transform it. Linear power supplies first transform the AC line supply, and then rectify it. Switching power supplies have better efficiency, less heat loss, wider input voltage ranges, smaller size and weight, and are intended for general use in automation. Linear power supplies have less harmonics, and (if regulated) have more precise output regulation.
