In electronics, the term "floating" describes a circuit or component electrically isolated from a common reference potential, typically earth ground. Consequently, the voltage potential of a floating circuit is independent of the ground potential. A "floating ground" serves as the local 0 V reference within this isolated circuit, without having a physical connection to earth ground.
Power supplies with floating outputs offer versatile integration options. Unlike grounded supplies where a specific terminal is fixed to earth, floating outputs allow users to ground either the positive or negative terminal to change polarity, or leave both terminals floating. This feature effectively eliminates ground loops, making it ideal for low-noise measurements and sensitive instrumentation.
Galvanic isolation separates the input from the output, typically using isolation transformers and optocouplers. This allows multiple power supplies to be connected in series to generate higher voltages or to create split-rail supplies. Note: When using a power supply in a floating configuration, ensure that the potential difference between the floating output and earth ground does not exceed the unit's specified isolation voltage rating.
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