AdvancedA-004-002-006
The main function of the bleeder resistor in a power supply is to provide a discharge path for the capacitor in the power supply. But it may also be used for a secondary function, which is to:
A
Answer
Measurements and troubleshooting
Type
A
improve voltage regulation
B
provide a ground return for the transformer
C
act as a secondary smoothing device in conjunction with the filter
D
inhibit the flow of current through the supply
Answer Notes
A bleeder resistor is placed in parallel with the output of a power supply. Its primary safety function is to bleed off dangerous electrical charges from the filter capacitors after the power is turned off, protecting users from shocks.
However, its secondary function is to act as a minimum constant load on the power supply. By drawing a steady, continuous "bleeder" current, it prevents the output voltage from soaring to the peak rectified voltage during no-load conditions. This constant baseline load significantly improves the overall voltage regulation of the power supply.
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There are two types of filters in general use in a power supply. They are called:
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In a power supply, series chokes will: