nates. Inductor current is then limited only by the DC resis-
tance of the wire and the available source current.
Definition of Terms (Continued)
CONTINUOUS/DISCONTINUOUS MODE OPERATION
OPERATING VOLT MICROSECOND CONSTANT (E•Top
)
Relates to the inductor current. In the continuous mode, the
inductor current is always flowing and never drops to zero,
vs. the discontinuous mode, where the inductor current
drops to zero for a period of time in the normal switching
cycle.
The product (in VoIt•µs) of the voltage applied to the inductor
and the time the voltage is applied. This E•Top constant is a
measure of the energy handling capability of an inductor and
is dependent upon the type of core, the core area, the
number of turns, and the duty cycle.
INDUCTOR SATURATION
The condition which exists when an inductor cannot hold any
more magnetic flux. When an inductor saturates, the induc-
tor appears less inductive and the resistive component domi-
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