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Top 8 Best DC Power Supplies for Sale: Reviews & Buying Guide

Did you feel the frustration of a glitching project due to a wonky power supply? We feel you. The wrong DC power supply can stall your progress faster than a blown fuse. But choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Here’s the key: focus on the below key specs:

  • Type of Power Supplies: Consider opting for a linear power supply if you prioritize simplicity and minimal noise. However, if efficiency and a compact design are more important, a switching power supply might be your best choice. Both types cater to different needs and budgets, so select the one that aligns with your specific requirements.
  • Voltage & Current Accuracy: Ensure the power supply you choose offers precise voltage (0-30V) and current (0-5A) outputs. This precision is essential for the accurate testing and reliable operation of your electronic devices. Opt for models with tight tolerance levels to guarantee consistent performance.
  • Resolution: The resolution of a power supply is crucial for fine-tuning. It determines the smallest increment of voltage or current adjustment possible. A higher resolution enables more precise adjustments, leading to greater control over your power output. Choose a power supply with high resolution to achieve finer control in your projects and tasks.

Here I’ve provided a “Buying Guide’ for the DC power supply. Read on to know more!

Best DC Power Supply 

DC Power Supplies Check the price
Kungber SPS305 DC Power SupplyCheck On Amazon
Check On Walmart
Tekpower variable DC power supplyCheck On Amazon
Check On Walmart
Eventek digital switching  power supplyCheck On Amazon
Check On eBay
KAIWEETS DC Power SupplyCheck On Kaiweets
NICE-POWER SPS3010 Variable DC Power SupplyCheck On Amazon
Check On Walmart
Yescom DC power supplyCheck On Amazon
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KORAD DC linear digital power supplyCheck On Amazon
Check On eBay
HYELEC Variable DC Power Supply HY3005BCheck On Amazon

Best DC Power Supply Reviews

1. Kungber SPS305 DC Power Supply

Kungber SPS305 DC Power Supply

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The first power supply in our list and if you are looking for a reliable yet affordable DC Power Supply, then you should definitely consider the Kungber SPS305 DC Power Supply.

It is a switching DC power supply with output voltage adjustable from 0 – 30V and output current adjustable from 0 – 5A. There are other variations as well such as 30V / 10A, 60V / 5A and 120V / 3A.

There are four dials for adjusting voltage and current with separate knobs for fine and coarse values. The power supply supports both CV and CC mode with automatic conversion between modes.

The display module consists of three sets of 4-digit LED display to display Voltage (with a resolution of 0.01V), current (with a resolution of 0.001A) and power (with a resolution of 0.1W). The on/off switch is located at the back.

Output ports consists of positive, negative and earth terminals. Additionally, there is a 5V / 2A USB Port using which you can charge different device or provide power supply to Arduino or ESP32.

In terms of safety, the Kungber Power Supply consist of temperature controlled fan, over voltage, power overload, short-circuit protection and a 5A input fuse.

Some important specifications of this power supply are:

  • Input AC Voltage: 110V 60Hz
  • Output DC Voltage: 0 – 30V
  • Output DC Current: 0 – 5A
  • Line Regulation: Voltage ≤ 0.1% + 3mV, Current ≤ 0.2% + 3mA
  • Load Regulation: Voltage ≤ 0.5% + 3mV, Current ≤ 0.2% + 3mA
  • Output Ripple and Noise: Voltage ≤ 30mV RMS, Current ≤ 20mA RMS
  • Working conditions: Temperature 32°F to 104°F, Relative humidity < 80%

Contents of the kit are:

  • Kingber SPS305 Power Supply
  • Power Cord
  • Test Leads
  • User Manual

A lightweight (< 3 lbs.), affordable and a reliable power supply with unique display (power consumption of the load) and USB Charging Port.

Highlights:

  • 0 – 30V and 0 – 5A Adjustable Switching Power Supply
  • 5V / 2A USB Port
  • Displays Power Consumption of the Load as well
  • Very light weight < 3 lbs.
  • Suitable for hobbyist, beginner, students and even professionals

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2. Tekpower Variable DC Power Supply

Tekpower-TP3005T-Variable-Linear-DC-Power-Supply

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The second power supply in our list is from a company called Tekpower, which manufacturers budget multimeters, power supplies and other test equipment.

Tekpower TP3005T is a variable DC Power Supply with voltage range from 0 to 30V and current from 0 to 5A. The setup and read back resolution is 10mV (0.01V) for voltage and 1mA (0.001A) for current.

An important specification of this power supply is that this is a Transformer based Linear Power Supply, which means it has low output ripple (noise) when compared to a switching power supply. This is important if you are working on sensitive components and devices, especially in R & D centers, research institutes, labs and other industrial use.

Like any bench power supply, you can operate this either in Constant Voltage (CV) mode or Constant Current (CC) mode. Do refer to the provided user manual on how to set up output voltage or constant current.

There are a couple of protection mechanisms for added safety such as Over Current Protection and Over Heating Protection. A temperature sensor based cooling fan helps radiate the heat from the power supply.

Coming to the user interface, there are couple of seven segment displays for voltmeter and ammeter, indicators for CC, CV, OCP modes, couple of dials for voltage and current adjustment, output terminals (positive, negative and earth (ground)) and an on/off switch.

Some important specifications of this power supply are:

  • Output DC Voltage: 0 – 30V
  • Output DC Current: 0 – 5A
  • Input AC Voltage: 110V @ 60Hz
  • Adjustable voltage and current with a resolution of 10mV and 1mA
  • Line Regulation: CV < 0.01% + 3mV, CC < 0.2% + 6mA
  • Load Regulation: CV < 0.01% + 3mV, CC < 0.2% + 3mA
  • Output ripple and noise: CV < 1 mV RMS, CC < 3 mA RMS
  • Protection features: OCP and temperature sensor based cooling fan
  • Operating Conditions: Temperature 32°F – 102°F and Relative Humidity < 80%
  • Accuracy of LCD: ±2.5%

The contents of the package are:

  • Power Supply (TP3005T)
  • Power cord
  • 28” long test leads with alligator clips
  • User Manual

Overall, the performance of Tekpower TP3005T Power Supply is great. If you are looking for a low-cost linear power supply, then this is one of the affordable options (a little bit expensive, if you consider an equivalent switching power supply). But if you are looking for a switching power supply, then continue browsing the list.

Highlights:

  • Linear Variable DC Power Supply
  • Adjustable voltage and current
  • Low output ripple and noise
  • 1-year manufacturer warranty
  • Heavy at 12 lbs. (due to transformer)
  • Expensive if you look at other switching power supplies
  • Affordable in terms of linear power supplies

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3. Eventek Digital Switching  Power Supply

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Eventek is another smalltime player that manufacturers good quality digital test and measuring equipment such as Multimeters, Clamp Meters, Power Supplies and Thermometers.

The Eventek KPS305D is an affordable power supply with adjustable output voltage from 0 – 30V and output current from 0 – 5A. It is a switching power supply, so the efficiency figures are high at ≥ 89% and weighs very little at only 3.2 lbs. (as there is no mains transformer).

There are totally four dials, two for voltage (separate dials for fine and coarse adjustment) and two for current adjustment. It supports both CV and CC mode and automatically converts from one mode to other depending on the usage.

Apart from the knobs, there is a voltmeter and ammeter with a display resolution of 0.1V and 0.01A respectively. There are also indicators for CC and CV mode, a rocker style on/off switch and only positive and negative output ports (no earth (ground) port).

There are multiple protection features such as: temperature sensor based cooling fan, over current protection, over voltage protection and short-circuit protection.

Following are some of the important specifications of Eventek KPS305D Power Supply:

  • Output DC Voltage: 0 – 30V
  • Output DC Current: 0 – 5A
  • Line Regulation: CV < 0.01% + 3mV, CC < 0.2% + 6mA
  • Load Regulation: CV < 0.1% + 1mV, CC < 0.1% + 3mA
  • Output Ripple and noise: CV < 1 mV RMS, CC < 3 mA RMS

The contents of this power supply package are:

  • Eventek Power supply (KPS305D)
  • Two Test Leads
  • Input power cord
  • A user-guide

If you are looking for an affordable switching power supply, then you can definitely consider the Eventek KPS305D. It is suitable for beginners, schools and training institutes.

Highlights:

  • Affordable Switching type Variable Power Supply
  • Lightweight (only 3.2 lbs.)
  • Multiple protections
  • 30 days money back offer and 12 months of limited guarantee

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4. KAIWEETS DC Power Supply

KAIWEETS DC Power SupplyKAIWEETS is a new brand in the market but its products have become a popular choice among the customers.

Their DC power supply is specially designed for electronic maintenance, schools, scientific research, product development, and laboratories.

It has output voltage of 0-30V and output current of 0-10A. It also comes with an adjustable power supply to charge the equipment you want to repair. With a large LED display, you can easily check the readings even in dim lighting conditions.

This product is compact and light in weight. So, you can carry it anywhere you want without any strain. When it comes to safety, this power supply conforms to RoHs and CE-Marking.

Key specifications of this power supply

  • Input AC Voltage: Switchable between 110V±10%/60Hz
  • Output DC Voltage: 0 – 30V
  • Output DC Current: 0-10A
  • Line Regulation: Voltage ≤0.1%+10mV, Current ≤0.1%+10mA
  • Load Regulation: Voltage ≤0.1%+5mV, Current ≤0.1%+10mA
  • Output Ripple: ≤20mV r.m.s

Following are the contents of the package:

  • DC power supply
  • Power cord
  • User manual

This DC power supply comes with 36-month after sales service and lifetime technical support.

Highlights:

  • Compact and portable
  • Multiple protections
  • Elastic handle
  • 5V/2A USB Interface
  • Large display
  • Easy to operate

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5. NICE-POWER SPS3010 Variable DC Power Supply

NICE-POWER SPS3010 Variable DC Power Supply

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Another new player in the field of variable DC Power Supplies is a brand called NICE-POWER.

The NICE-POWER SPS3010 Variable DC Power Supply is a switching power supply, which can be adjusted from 0 – 30V and 0 – 10A. It is a very affordable power supply considering these values.

Front Panel is very simple with a couple of 3-digit LED display for voltmeter and ammeter. But the resolution (both setup and read back) is 0.1V and 0.01A, which is not that great if you want a very precise adjustment.

There are couple of knobs for voltage and current adjustment along with a on/off switch. Output ports consists of positive, negative and earth. Additionally, there is a 5V / 2A USB port, which is an added feature if you want to charge you phone or power circuit boards.

Protection wise, there is a temperature controlled cooling fan, over current, over voltage and short-circuit protection.

The following are some key specifications of this NICE-POWER power supply:

  • Input AC Voltage: 110V 60Hz
  • Output DC Voltage: 0 – 30V
  • Output DC Current: 0 – 10A
  • Line Regulation: Voltage ≤ 1% + 10mV
  • Load Regulation: Voltage ≤ 1% + 10mV
  • Output Ripple and Noise: Voltage ≤ 1% Peak-to-Peak
  • Operating Conditions: Temperature 14°F – 113°F and Relative Humidity < 90%

Following are the contents of the package:

  • DC Power Supply
  • Power Cord
  • 2 x Test Leads
  • User Manual

It is a low-cost DC Power supply with not that accurate values. Suitable for beginners, who doesn’t want to spend a lot of money but still get a reliable power supply.

Highlights:

  • 0 – 30V and 0 – 10A Adjustable Power Supply
  • Switching type variable power supply
  • Only three-digit readings
  • USB with 5V and 2A
  • Doesn’t have a fine resolution

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6. Yescom DC power supply

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Yescom USA, started as a retailer for cell phone accessories, now contains a wide portfolio of products ranging from home and garden supplies to electronics.

The Yescom Adjustable Switching Power Supply has 0 – 30V of output voltage and 0 – 10A of output current adjustment. Yes, with a maximum of 30V and 10A, this power supply can provide 300W of continuous power with both CC and CV modes.

Aided by several protection features such as over voltage, over current and over temperature protection (with temperature sensor based cooling fan), you can use this power supply at full load for a long time without any interruptions.

Coming to the user interface, the front panel consists of three-digit voltmeter and ammeter with a display resolution of 0.1V and 0.1A respectively. There are also four knobs, two each for fine and coarse adjustments for voltage and current. Apart from these, there are indicators for CV and CC mode, on/off switch and three output ports (positive, negative and earth).

Let us see some important specifications of this power supply:

  • Output DC Voltage: 0 – 30V
  • Output DC Current: 0 – 10A
  • Input AC Voltage: 110V at 60Hz
  • Line Regulation: Voltage ≤ 0.05% + 1mV, Current ≤ 0.1% + 10mA
  • Load Regulation: CV ≤ 0.1% + 1mV, CC ≤ 0.1% + 10mA
  • Output Ripple and Noise: CV ≤ 10mV RMS), CC ≤ 20mA RMS
  • Working conditions: Temperature 14°F to 104°F, Relative humidity < 80%

The package contains the following components:

  • DC Power Supply
  • Power cord
  • Test leads
  • User manual

This is yet another affordable switching power supply with a current range up to 10A. If you don’t want this high range, then you can choose the even low cost 5A variant.

Highlights:

  • 0 – 30V and 0 – 10A adjustable power supply
  • Multiple protections for long duration usage
  • Very low-quality test leads

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7. KORAD DC linear digital power supply

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Korad Technology is a company dedicated for developing all kinds of Power Supplies and Electronic Loads (Programmable, High-power, Switching, Linear, etc.).

The KORAD KD3005D is yet another linear variable power supply in the list, where the output voltage is adjustable from 0 – 30V and output current is adjustable from 0 – 5A. it supports both CV and CC modes.

Front panel consists of two 4-digit LED display one each for voltmeter and ammeter with a setup and readback resolution of 10mV and 1mA respectively. There are couple of rotary encoders for voltage and current adjustment with fine and coarse integrated into a single knob. Apart from these, there are indicators for OCP, CV, CC, on/ off switch and three output terminals (positive, negative and earth).

As far as protection is concerned, there is a temperature controlled cooling fan, over voltage and over current protection and short circuit protection.

Key specifications of this power supply are:

  • Input AC Voltage: Switchable between 220V 50 Hz and 110V 60Hz
  • Output DC Voltage: 0 – 30V
  • Output DC Current: 0 – 5A
  • Line Regulation: Voltage ≤ 0.01% + 2mV, Current ≤ 0.1% + 5mA
  • Load Regulation: Voltage ≤ 0.01% + 3mV, Current ≤ 0.1% + 3mA
  • Output Ripple: Voltage ≤ 2mV RMS, Current ≤ 3mA RMS
  • Operating Conditions: Temperature 32°F – 102°F and Relative Humidity < 80%

Contents of the package are:

  • KD3005D Power Supply
  • Power Cord
  • Test lead
  • User Manual

This is an alternative to the Tekpower Linear power supply mentioned before. Compare the specifications and choose the suitable one, if you are interested in a linear variable power supply.

Highlights:

  • 0 – 30V and 0 – 5A adjustable Linear Power Supply
  • 2-Year warranty
  • A little bit heavy at 9.5 lbs.
  • Slightly expensive

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8. HYELEC Variable DC Power Supply HY3005B

 

HYELEC Variable DC Power Supply HY3005BRanked at the bottom of our list of top DC power supplies, the HY 3005B from HYELEC stands out for several reasons. This desktop power source combines accuracy, dependability, and easy-to-use features, making it a valuable addition to any workspace.

The HY3005B comes with a precise adjustment knob that allows users to make fine adjustments, with readings as precise as 0.01V and 0.01A displayed on an LED screen, ensuring stability and consistent measurements.

Switching between constant voltage (CV) and constant current (CC) modes is simple thanks to the adjustment knobs. Additionally, when the load current hits the set limit, the power supply smoothly transitions to constant current mode, with LED indicators providing clear feedback.

Safety features are a priority with the HY3005B, including surge protection to prevent equipment damage, a fan to prevent overheating, and protection against power overload and short circuits. It’s been tested to operate continuously for 72 hours at full load, ensuring reliability even in tough conditions.

This power supply is versatile, finding use in various fields such as lab research, phone repair, electrical maintenance, battery charging, and DIY projects. It suits both hobbyists and professionals, offering performance and flexibility for different needs.

Key Specifications of this power supply are:

  • Output Voltage: 0-30V
  • Output Current: 0-5A
  • Display: 4-Digit LED Display
  • Ripple and Noise: CV≤5mVr.m.s, CC≤20mAr.m.s
  • Input Voltage: 104~127VAC(60Hz)
  • Line Regulation: CV≤0.1%+3mV, CC≤0.2%+3mA
  • Load Regulation: CV≤0.05%+3mV ( I≤3A ), CC≤0.5%+10mA ( I≤3A ), CV≤0.01%+5mV ( I>3A ), CC≤0.2%+5mA ( I>3A )
  • Protection: Current Limiting and Short Circuit Protection
  • Environment: Operating Temperature: 0~+40°C, Relative Humidity: <90%
  • Surge Voltage Control: Yes
  • Lock Function: Yes

The contents of the package are:

  • 1 x HYELEC HY3005B DC Power Supply
  • 1 x Output Power Cable
  • 1 x Input Power Cable
  • 1 x English User Manual
  • 24 Months Warranty and Lifetime Technical Support

The HYELEC Variable DC Power Supply HY3005B combines precision, reliability, and safety features, making it an excellent choice for electronic enthusiasts, professionals, and hobbyists alike.

Highlights:

  • 0 – 30V and 0 – 5A Adjustable Linear Power Supply
  • Easy-to-carry Handle
  • Automatic conversion between mA and A
  • High-precision encoder adjustment knob for precise control
  • Multi-protection features ensure safety and reliability
  • Versatile applications across various fields

24-month warranty and lifetime technical support for added peace of mind.

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What is a DC Power Supply? Why do we Need It?

As the name suggests, a DC Power Supply is an electrical device capable of providing DC Voltage to a device under test (DUT), which is often a circuit board or an electronic product.

Almost all small-scale electronics and appliances work on DC Power Supply, either from a battery or from an AC to DC adapter. So, while testing a component or a circuit, an engineer must be able to provide the right kind of power to the device under test to verify its working and performance.

Engineer can easily set a specific voltage (as per the requirements of the DUT) using a Variable / Adjustable DC Power Supply and apply it to the circuit or device. As each circuit, component or device has unique power supply requirements, it is a feasible option to use a DC Power supply that allows us to set a specific voltage very easily.

What are the Different Types of DC Power Supplies?

Adjustable / Variable Power supply comes quite handy in testing situations and therefore power supply has emerged as an important piece of electronic equipment. So, let us have a look at the different types of DC power supplies that are commonly used for maintenance, development, testing and measurement.

Basically, there are two types of DC Power Supplies. They are:

  • Linear Power Supplies
  • Switching Power Supplies (also known as Switch Mode Power Supply or SMPS)

A Linear Power Supply consists of a transformer, which steps down the AC Mains voltage to a small value. This small AC voltage is then rectified and regulated to a clean DC Power Supply.

A Switching Power Supply on the hand is a lot more complex than a simple linear power supply. The AC mains voltage is converted to high-frequency pulses using a “switching” transistor. The high-frequency AC is then stepped down and rectified to produce a DC Voltage.

What are the Features of Variable DC Power Supplies?

  • Constant Current/ Voltage

Constant current / voltage power supply as per the name says provides constant current as well as constant voltage. Besides, it is considered to be an important feature of a DC power supply.

The main reason for using an adjustable DC Power Supply is that you can set the desired voltage and the maximum current for the load. If the load requires more current than the set current, the power supply enters a CC or Constant Current Mode, where the output current remains at the set current but there will be a drop in the voltage.

If the load requires a current which is less than the set current, then the power supply will be in a CV or Constant Voltage Mode. Here, the set voltage remains a constant value and the current depends on the load.

  • Multiple Output Ports

Some power supplies consist of 2-3 power outputs. If you are someone who uses multiple voltages while you are testing different circuits, then a multiple output power supply can be a perfect choice for you.

A number of users choose a double / triple output power supply where one output is connected to a digital logic output while other outputs for analog circuitry.

Some of the features that you will find in multiple output power supply are settable Voltage limitations, timed operations, storage registers and connectivity of two channels in series for higher voltage or current.

  • Programmable

Programmable power supplies are commonly known as system power supplies and they are generally used hand-in-hand alongside computer-operated system for testing and production.

A number of computer interfaces are used by system power supplies such as GPIB, IEEE-488, RS-232 serial communications, USB interfaces, and Ethernet.

Also, the following type of power supplies use certain command languages through which instructions are sent to the instrument via the digital interface.

Some of the language that are used are SCPI-like, proprietary and SCPI. This type of power supply is quite useful while you are working on complex setups as it has the ability to control the programmable power supply through the computer. Hence, you won’t have to push keys in the front panel of the instrument.

Unregulated vs Regulated DC Power Supply – What is the difference?

  • Unregulated DC Power Supply

Unregulated power supplies are those Power Supplies whose output voltage is not regulated i.e., it changes with the input. A simple unregulated power supply consists of a step-down transformer (to bring down AC main to, say, 12V), a diode and a capacitor (an example of a half-wave unregulated power supply).

An Unregulated Power Supply can provide a constant output power but the output voltage and current may change (if voltage increases, the current decreases and vice-versa). Most modern DC Power Supplies are Regulated and unregulated power supplies are a used only in some special applications.

  • Regulated DC Power Supply

A lot of modern DC power supply doesn’t work out the way like we have mentioned above. So, any consumer electronics that you would buy these days would have a regulated DC power supply.

A regulated DC power supply has the ability to produce a clean, stable and constant output voltage, irrespective of the input. Besides this, it has additional circuitry through which the output voltage can be tweaked down and up.

This is perhaps done to compensate the variations of the input voltage as well as the variations in current due to load.

Factors to Consider before Purchasing a DC Power Supply?

You will find a number of DC power supply device available in the market but not each of them might be suitable for you. So, we would be covering some of the major considerations that you would need to keep in mind. Let us discuss:-

  • Accuracy

It is perhaps the most important factor that you should consider before purchasing the best DC power supply in 2024.

Technically, it is defined as the extent at which the result of a calculation, measurement and specification matches to the correct standard or value.

Besides this, it also determines the power supply performance by closely matching to the theoretical value.

In general, the accuracy value are obtained by the quality of the regulation process and the conversion. Both current settings and voltage have accuracy specifications linked with them.

The accuracy denotes the point at which the output values matches with the international standards.

Most of the DC supplies comes along with in-built measurement circuits for measuring both the current and voltage.

Just in case, the output which is obtained is not clear due to minor errors in DAC, then the best way through which the accuracy can be tested is by measuring the variable power system through which the offset setting value is obtained.

  • Resolution

Resolution is perhaps another factor that you should look out just in case you think of buying a DC electronic power supply.

It is perhaps the small change in current or voltage that occurs due to the power supply device.

In other words, we can say that resolution is absolute full-scale percentage or value.

Besides this, it is limited to the number of DAC and discrete levels. You should also keep in mind that the more number of bits, perhaps better resolution you will obtain.

  • Ripple & Noise

The DC power supply output is commonly referred as random deviation and period.

Ripple is commonly defined as the output voltage inherent ac component that is obtained due to internal switching that takes place in the power supply.

So, when the signal is viewed in the frequency domain, then the ripples showcase false responses.

On the other hand, noise is a parasitic manifestation that happens inside the power supply. It appears as a result of high-frequency voltage spikes that takes place in the output voltage.

Noise in general is quite random and if you view that in frequency domain, then you will notice that there is a slight increase that occurs in the baseline.

So, if you are testing noise and ripple, there are a few things that you would have to keep in mind.

The first thing is that loading can have a significant impact on the ripple and thus it is important that you take the measurement in perhaps the same loading conditions.

Moreover, ripple can also get affected due to the input voltage, and thus you should perform the tests at various input voltages.

Additionally, there are a number of manufacturers who apply external capacitors at the power supply output for measurement purposes.

  • Stability

The DC power supply performance can get changed if used for the long term. So, in order to maintain the power supply stability, proper calibration and verification need to be done.

  • Transient Response

Transient response is denoted as the amount of output voltage deviation due to change that occurs in loading.

So, when the change in the loading takes place, then either the power supply has a lot of stored energy or perhaps not enough of it. Hence, it is not able to react immediately in the new condition.

Thus, output capacitors would be responsible for lack of energy or excess energy.

So, they would preferably expend the charge to cope with the load. In such a case, there would be voltage decrease. On the contrary, excess energy would be stored which would result in voltage increase.

There are a few conditions in context of transient response in which its measurement might get affected.

Some of the important conditions are starting current, slew rate and the ending current. The slew rate has significant impact in the context of transient response.

The reason is that the faster the load changes would be, the more deviation it would be in the output before finally the power supply copes up with the changing conditions.

Besides this, the starting and ending of the current level can also cause significant impact.

Lastly, for accurate transient response measurement, user would preferably need two scope channels.

What are the Applications of DC Power Supply?

DC power supply is used as a testing tools is used in a number of industries, labs, R & D centers and research institutes. Let us have a brief look at the area of application:-

  • Mobile and Laptop Repair Centers

It is widely used in Anodizing, Battery charging, Electroplating, LED applications, Hydrogen generation, Electrolysis, electrochemical applications to name a few.

Additionally, it is also used for Transceiver car woofers, 3D printers, LED strips and Audio amplifiers.

  • Commercial and Domestic Premises

DC power supply is commonly used in a number of extra-low and low voltage applications especially when they are powered by solar power systems or batteries. In addition, a number of electronic circuits also need a DC power supply.

Some domestic applications of DC power supply are connectors, sockets, fixtures and switches that are suitable for alternating current.

On the contrary, some of the applications in commercial properties are medical centres, office buildings, retail stores, malls, hotels, farm land, multifamily housing buildings, garages, warehouses etc.

  • Automotive Industry

DC power supply is widely used in automotive battery that perhaps provides the power needed for lighting, engine starting and the ignition system.

  • Telecommunication Industry

The equipment that is used in telephone exchange communication uses the standard – 48 V DC power supply. In order to achieve the negative polarity, the battery bank and the positive terminal of the power supply system is grounded.

  • HVDC Systems

The HVDC power transmission systems makes use of DC for the purpose of bulk electrical power transmission.

In addition, for the purpose of long-distance transmission, HVDC system proves to be less expensive and the electrical losses that are suffered is also low.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is a DC bench power supply?

A DC Power Supply, sometimes also known as a Bench Power Supply, is an important test and measurement device that provides / supplies regulated DC Power to a device, unit or circuit under test. Every electrical and electronics engineer must have some sort of a variable DC Power Supply on his / her work bench (hence the name benchtop power supply) to provide DC power to different electronics circuits and devices.

2. How do I choose a power supply?

When choosing a right bench power supply, there are several important things you have to consider. Some important parameters are: maximum voltage and current the power supply can provide, line and load regulation, over voltage and over current protection, resolution, accuracy, stability, ripple, noise, readback accuracy and resolution and temperature stability.

3. Do volts or amps matter for a power supply?

Almost all bench power supplies have an adjustable voltage and current (volts and amps). Usually, you will find ratings such as 15V 2A, 30V 10A, 60V 5A, etc. For example, a 30V 10A power supply can supply a maximum of 30V and 10A i.e., you can adjust the voltage from 0V to 30V and also set the current limit between 0A and 10A. Hence, volts and amps ratings are an important criterion is selecting a power supply and choose the that can provide a suitable range for your job / work.

4. Why is DC not used in homes?

Even though most of the modern consumer electronics such as TVs, mobile phones, laptops, tablets, desktop PCs, use DC Power supply, our homes are not directly equipped with DC. One of the reasons is AC is a lot easier and cheaper to produce and transport over thousands of kilometers as it can be easily stepped up or down without much loss.

5. Can I use a 12V DC power supply on a 9V DC?

Simple answer is no. If a device is rated for 9V DC, then the circuitry in that device is designed and built around that voltage and this includes the protection circuit as well. So, if you use 12V DC power supply on a 9V DC device, then it might fry the input protection circuit.

Conclusion

Now that you’re equipped with knowledge about the key factors that enhance the performance of a DC power supply, what’s your next step? Are you prioritizing price, quality, or performance? Don’t worry if you’re feeling overwhelmed – we’re here to guide you after a thorough evaluation!

  • We’ve selected the Kungber SPS305 DC Power Supply as the top choice. With its simple design, reliability, and accuracy, it stands out as a Switching Power Supply featuring 4-digit voltage and current readings, along with a power meter and USB port. 
  • If you’re specifically seeking a variable linear DC power supply, we recommend the Tekpower TP3005T Power Supplies. An affordable option with high precision and dual operational modes. 
  • If looking for an adjustable switching regulated power supply with a small & diverse application, then go with Nice-Power DC Power Supply. It has an LED display with multiple protection and an auto cooling fan that makes it used for diversified applications.
  • For a budget-friendly option, you can choose Eventek KPS305D DC Power Supply. It has an HD display, with an automatic conversion of constant voltage and current mode and multiple protection & intelligent cooling.

We hope this article has helped you. If you still have questions about DC power supplies, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below.

One Response

  1. i have been tinkering with dc electric bikes,scooters etc, and are of different voltages. i am just learning some of these things and i’d like to get some kind of variable power supply to test out the components i run into. some of the things are 12v,24v36v and 48 volt powered. i just want to be able to power these things up to be able to see if they need replaced as i see a lot on you tube,but i’m not savvy enough to make the right decision on which supply would be best for me,instead of hooking 12v batteries together. thank you in advance for any info you can give. ray.

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