What is ripple and noise?

Ripple and noise indicate AC adapters' performance and are written in our specifications as follows. (Extract from UNIFIVE Product Specification)

Both ripple and noise are minute DC fluctuations in the output voltage, which is direct current and should theoretically be zero. However, in principle, it isn't easy to eliminate them. Slight ripple noise is a critical factor in the quality of an AC adapter.

It's important to note that minimizing ripple or noise doesn't automatically mean the AC adapter is the best. Reducing these fluctuations often requires increasing the quantity and size of components, which in turn leads to a larger, heavier, and more expensive product. Therefore, it's a trade-off that readers need to consider based on their specific needs.

So, you should choose the best performance for the equipment you require in your AC adapter.

The difference between ripple and noise is explained in the standards stipulated in the figure below courtesy of the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA).

(Source: JEITA)

Ripple fluctuation with a frequency of 50/60 Hz in an AC power supply and noise fluctuation with a frequency of several tens of kHz or more caused by switching an AC adapter. There is a relationship between their interaction and their combination.

 "ripple noise," "ripple," "noise" <"ripple noise" <"ripple" + "noise."

At our company, various AC adapters are prepared according to application, and individual specifications can also be downloaded. We can also deliver individualized correspondence, so please get in touch with us if you have any questions.

The JEITA standard introduced here can be purchased from the following page. Information is also free if you are only browsing, so please refer to their website for more details.

JEITA Standard, General Electronic Components Division, Conversion Parts Relationship