Chapter 7 Tutorial
Connecting the Load
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Reverse Current Loading
An active load connected to the power supply may actually deliver a reverse current
to the supply during a portion of its operating cycle. An external source can not be
allowed to pump current into the supply without risking loss of regulation and possible
damage. These effects can be avoided by preloading the output with a dummy load
resistor. The dummy load resistor should draw at least the same amount of current
from the supply as the active load may deliver to the supply. The value of the current
for the dummy load plus the value of the current the load draws from the supply must
be less than the maximum current of the supply.