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How to Generate a PWM and Regulate IC

Pulse width modulation -- or PWM -- is a method used to change the amount of voltage created by a power source. This method is useful when you need to power a component which requires a different amount of power than you have readily available. The PWM is measured on a counter and filtered through a function generator. The generator is used to change the PWM until the desired levels are achieved.

Things You'll Need

Power source
High-resolution counter
Function generator
Power-operated item

Instructions

- 1
  Connect a power source to a the input mechanism of a high-resolution counter. The power source can be a battery, battery pack or any other analog power device.
- 2
  Turn on the counter and power source, if the power source is not in constant power-producing mode. The counter will have a graph display with an x and y axis. The x axis will be displayed horizontally across the bottom of the screen. The y axis will be displayed vertically along the right side of the screen. The x axis will measure the cycle width and the y axis will measure the amount of power or volts created by the power source.
- 3
  Locate the zero volt measurement on the high-resolution counter's display. Allow the power to run at the normal operating level and determine the power cycle. Locate the highest point on the high-resolution counter. This is the maximum amount of power that is outputted by the device.
- 4
  Determine the amount of time the power cycle is at the highest output and the time the power cycle is at a zero power output level. Divide the first number by the second number. This is your duty cycle measurement.
- 5
  Connect a function generator to your high-resolution counter. The voltage from the power source will run through the high-resolution counter and into the function generator. This will serve as your IC voltage regulator.
- 6
  Determine the amount of power or duty cycle needed to power the desired item.
- 7
  Twist the dial on the function generator until the duty cycle displayed on the high-resolution counter matches the required amount of power.
- 8
  Connect the item you wish to be powered with the IC voltage regulator to the function generator, and allow the power source to run.
- 9
  Disconnect the IC voltage regulator from the item. Disconnect the function generator, turn off the high-resolution controller and disconnect the power source when you are done regulating the IC and generating the PWM.

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