
With the right tools on hand, making these measurements doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. As a result, in-circuit measurements of inductors and transformers under operating conditions are critical to ensuring reliable real-world performance. However, due to actual signal conditions, parasitics, temperature, and other environmental factors affecting magnetic components’ performance, a power supply may not perform exactly as predicted by specs and simulations. Much of the SMPS design process relies on component specifications and simulation models. In switched-mode power supplies (SMPS), magnetic components, namely inductors and transformers, play critical roles. Ensuring they perform as expected requires thorough in-circuit measurements performed under operating conditions.

Inductors and transformers serve key roles in switch-mode power supplies.
