A linear power supply is a type of power supply that converts alternating current (AC) from the wall outlet into direct current (DC) for electronic devices. It uses a transformer to step down the voltage and then rectifies it, smoothing the output with capacitors. This design provides a stable and clean DC voltage, making it suitable for sensitive electronics. One of the main advantages of linear power supplies is their simplicity and reliability. However, they can be less efficient than other types, such as switching power supplies, because they dissipate excess voltage as heat. This can lead to larger size and weight due to the components used.