Ripple current is one of the most important parameters in switching power supply design.
The ripple current flowing through an inductor affects:
- Inductor size
- Current rating
- Core selection
- Copper losses
- Temperature rise
This calculator helps determine ripple current and understand its impact on magnetic component performance.
Calculator
Buck Converter Ripple Current Calculator
Estimate duty cycle, inductor ripple current, and peak current for a buck converter.
Duty Cycle: %
Ripple Current: A p-p
Ripple Percentage: %
Peak Current: A
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Start Design AnalysisUnderstanding the Results
Explain:
- Peak Current
- RMS Current
- Ripple Percentage
- Design tradeoffs
SolidMag Engineering Note
Higher ripple current often allows smaller inductors but increases current stress and losses. Lower ripple current generally improves performance but requires larger magnetic components.
Related Reading
- Chapter 06: Energy Storage in Magnetic Components
- Chapter 11: Understanding Copper Losses
- Chapter 13: Designing Inductors for Switching Power Supplies
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