⚠️ The Problem: Ripple in SMPS Outputs

Switch Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) are efficient, but they often produce ripple—tiny voltage fluctuations that can disrupt sensitive components like sensors, microcontrollers, and ADCs. Too much ripple can cause erratic readings or noise in audio and data systems.

🔧 The Solution: Filter the Output

To reduce ripple, you can add low ESR capacitors and inductors at the output. A basic LC (inductor-capacitor) filter smooths the voltage, giving you a more stable DC output—ideal for noise-sensitive circuits.

💡 Practical Example: Noisy Audio from a Microcontroller

Suppose you’re powering an audio amplifier module from a 12V SMPS. You notice a high-pitched hum in your speaker. Adding a 220μF low ESR capacitor in parallel with a 100µH inductor at the output can filter the ripple, eliminating the noise and cleaning up your audio!

🧮 Sample Calculation: Choosing the Right Capacitor

Let’s assume your ripple frequency is 100kHz.

To attenuate it, pick an LC combo with a cutoff below that:

Cutoff freq = 1 / (2π√(L×C))
= 1 / (2π√(100µH × 220µF)) ≈ 1.07kHz – good for filtering higher frequency noise.

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