Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E7D
E7D10E7D

Why is a switching type power supply less expensive and lighter than an equivalent linear power supply?

Deep Dive: E7D10

The correct answer is C: The high frequency inverter design uses much smaller transformers and filter components for an equivalent power output. Why is a switching type power supply less expensive and lighter than an equivalent linear power supply is that the high frequency inverter design uses much smaller transformers and filter components for an equivalent power output. High-frequency operation allows smaller components. For amateur radio operators, this is important for power supply design. Understanding this helps when selecting power supplies.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. Inverter design not requiring output filter isn't the reason - high frequency allows smaller components. No output filter isn't the reason. Option B: Incorrect. Control circuitry using less current isn't the reason - high frequency allows smaller components. Less current isn't the reason. Option D: Incorrect. Recovering power from unused AC cycle portion isn't the reason - high frequency allows smaller components. Power recovery isn't the reason.

Exam Tip

Switching supply less expensive/lighter = high frequency uses smaller transformers and filter components. Think 'S'witching 'S'upply = 'S'maller 'S'ize (high frequency). High-frequency operation allows smaller components. Not no output filter, not less current, not power recovery - just smaller components due to high frequency.

Memory Aid

Switching supply less expensive/lighter = high frequency uses smaller transformers and filter components. Think 'S'witching = 'S'maller components. High-frequency operation allows smaller components. Important for power supply design.

Real-World Example

A switching type power supply is less expensive and lighter: It's because the high frequency inverter design uses much smaller transformers and filter components for an equivalent power output. High-frequency operation allows smaller magnetic components. This is the reason - smaller components due to high frequency.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E7D

Reference: 2024-2028 Question Pool · E7 - Practical Circuits

Key Concepts

Switching type power supply Less expensive and lighter Equivalent linear power supply High frequency inverter design Much smaller transformers and filter components

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E7D topic.