At work I have access to a nice bench power supply. I can set the voltage anywhere i want up to 30V in increments of 0.1V. However, when I get home, I rely on a collection of "wallwart" power supplies. But, I have a few ATX power supplies as well, and would like to convert one into a useful bench power supply. If possible, I would like a smooth, variable output.
The 2 things I cant figure out are; How can I make this a variable power supply? And how can I get more than 12V out of it?
One (small) power supply I have in front of me has the following outputs:
5V/18A
12V/17A
-12V/0.5A
3.3V/5A
I'll start with the over 12V problem. If I use 12V and -12V as ground, that should be 24V. But then what kind of amperage could I expect? If thats not the solution for greater than 12V, then what is?
OK and now for the variable part. Im not too familiar with methods used for varying voltages. Im familiar with PWM, but I am assuming their square wave would be suitable for little more than lights and motors? I am aware of voltage regulators, but I do not know how exactly they work or how expensive one would be to provide some decent amperage.
I'll keep it short for now. If a true variable (and smooth) option proves too costly, I will settle for a few select voltages.
Thanks
-Chris P
The 2 things I cant figure out are; How can I make this a variable power supply? And how can I get more than 12V out of it?
One (small) power supply I have in front of me has the following outputs:
5V/18A
12V/17A
-12V/0.5A
3.3V/5A
I'll start with the over 12V problem. If I use 12V and -12V as ground, that should be 24V. But then what kind of amperage could I expect? If thats not the solution for greater than 12V, then what is?
OK and now for the variable part. Im not too familiar with methods used for varying voltages. Im familiar with PWM, but I am assuming their square wave would be suitable for little more than lights and motors? I am aware of voltage regulators, but I do not know how exactly they work or how expensive one would be to provide some decent amperage.
I'll keep it short for now. If a true variable (and smooth) option proves too costly, I will settle for a few select voltages.
Thanks
-Chris P