As soon as we use a word like "inductor", we loose most if not all of the intended audience. We need an explanation that everyone that frequents the forums can understand. How 'bout relating what's happening to something where folks can use their innate physical intuition? Here's a little hint: Your average household light dimmer uses PWM to control the brightness of the attached light bulb.
Remember, this is for some grade A cruft from my desk drawer
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-Kevin