Definition
A power supply that holds its output voltage (or current) at a constant value despite changes in input voltage or in the load drawing power from it.
Plain English
A power source that keeps its output steady, even when the incoming power wobbles or the equipment connected to it draws more or less current.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical systems, avionics installations, and maintenance checks where radios, instruments, sensors, or test equipment need steady electrical power.
Derivation
‘Regulated’ comes from the Latin regula, meaning ‘rule’ or ‘straight stick’ — something used to keep things in line. A regulated supply keeps the voltage ‘in line’ at the set value.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents avionics failures and erratic instrument readings caused by voltage fluctuations during flight.
Analogy
It is like a device that keeps water pressure steady at a faucet even when pressure elsewhere in the building changes. The connected equipment sees a steady supply instead of every upstream change.
Intuition Check
Regulated does not mean legally controlled here. It means electrically controlled so the output stays close to a set value.
Example Sentence 1
The radio runs off a regulated power supply, so its output stays clean even when the alternator load shifts.
Example Sentence 2
During the preflight inspection the technician confirmed the regulated power supply output stayed within limits under varying loads.