What are the two types of voltage regulators?

The two types of voltage regulators are best categorized as series-type and shunt-type.

Series-type voltage regulators control the output voltage by adjusting the resistance of a series component in the circuit, effectively regulating the current flowing through the load. This type is commonly used because it can provide a stable output voltage over a wide range of loads and input voltages.

On the other hand, shunt-type regulators maintain a constant output voltage by diverting excess current away from the load through a parallel configuration. They efficiently regulate voltage but typically have limitations on current handling and are often used for lower-power applications.

While other types like linear and switching regulators also exist, the distinction between series and shunt types specifically highlights how the regulation mechanism functions within a circuit, making it a fundamental classification in the study of voltage regulators.