Improved impedance profile prediction using non-linear switching regulator model

Switching voltage regulators determine the power rails impedance profile at the low frequency range. The regulator electrical model along with the rail passive network enables the prediction of the design impedance profile. The accuracy gained by using a non-linear regulator model is emphasized in the paper. The impedance profile resonances are under-estimated while using a linear average regulator model. The miss prediction is more severe as the amount of regulator filter capacitance is reduced. Accurate prediction of a marginal regulator design thus necessitates the usage of a switching regulator model.