AC \ DC regulated power supply

[centenary]

I need to purchase a 240v AC power supply that outputs regulated 12v DC preferrably at 6 amp (8 amp tops) to power some DC accessories. Fleabay is awash with PSUs but, when I bought one that was described as 'regulated 12v DC output,' it actually shows as 15.5v when tested on my meter!

The component manufacturer of the items that need the power supply to work, states the supply needs to be 12v as a greater voltage may cause damage to the components which will not be covered by the warranty.

Anyone know of suitable PSU that actually delivers 12v DC and not 15+?

[aleopardstail]

I have used various Meanwell branded AC-DC converters, often sold as "LED power supplies" on ebay, can be had in 5v, 12v & 24v - there are 15v ones but are a bit rockinghorse poo to find.

what you may find is a 12v one when tested with a meter may show higher as its not on load, understand the caution though.

this sort of thing: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/375445283257

can be had on Amazon as well, I've been using these for a while, they come in a stack of power ratings, more power than the usual wall wart ones - be aware you will have to wire the mains power to these yourself - if thats something you are not comfortable with look elsewhere or find someone who can help (there are suitable switched power sockets with fuse holders that will take a fused "kettle cord" power lead), the thing just needs to be installed somewhere fingers cannot get to the mains terminals and where its away from potential lose wires

[Suzie]

I would recommend going to a reputable supplier if you need something of good quality. It need not be expensive as this 7.5A supply from CPC is very reasonably priced:-



Always have a load on the power supply when measuring the voltage, a 1K resistor should apply sufficient load.

[centenary]

Thanks both. I dont have any 1k resistors handy but have an old car headlight bulb so will try that as the load and test again with the meter.

[aleopardstail]

Thanks both. I dont have any 1k resistors handy but have an old car headlight bulb so will try that as the load and test again with the meter.

some of them need the load as part of their regulation circuit, better ones stabilise the outputs internally, headlight bulb should be ideal

[centenary]

Sticking the car headlight bulb on the PSU and using the meter showed the dc voltage to be 12.5v which is good enough for the components. Thanks again, both.

[aleopardstail]

Sticking the car headlight bulb on the PSU and using the meter showed the dc voltage to be 12.5v which is good enough for the components. Thanks again, both.

glad it worked out