power supply source

Hi,

Have always used a traditional linear psu and 5v regulator on my Pic micro projects, but for a new one considering using one of the many smps units commonly available on ebay that power laptops etc.

Have seen a dual output one at 2A 5v and 2A 12v to drive a HDD etc.

Would seem ideal for my Pic project but just a bit sceptical, should I be using any extra filtering or protection on the 5v rail before connecting to the Pic.

The only thing I would check is the no load voltage. Some don't like to run with no or low load.

If you are using any low-level analog (sensors, Instrumentation amps, A/D) I would not be inclined to use a switcher...

Hi,

Thanks for the replies.

My pic does have ADC inputs from both direct and op amp sources as well as digital sensors, so seems its preferable not to use a smps 5v rail.

Wondered if using a 12V dc smps line taken to a 5v regulator via a small choke and large cap would condition the line enough or would that still be prone to problems ?