Linear regulators are a special case in which the power element is driven in linear mode rather than being used like a switch ON-OFF. The power element has to absorb the difference between the input and output. The advantages are simplicity, low noise, and no inductor is used because there is no switching in the device. Although there are high current linear regulators, up to 7 A, the typical use is below 500 mA, mainly due to power losses.