As a Ham Radio operator and a electronics / programming fanatic, I’m always on the lookout to improve my bench equipment. This weeks upgrade is a multi voltage bench power supply. For those that have been looking, bench power supplies can be very pricey, but many people overlook the ubiquitous computer power supply. It has +12v, -12v, 5v, and 3.3v taps, but not in a easy to use form. That changes with a ATX power adapter. Now you can easily add a variety of voltages to your projects, in some hefty current ratings, up to 36 amps or more.
The next stage is to add a Arduino voltage and current display for each output, and maybe some MOSFET’s for adjustable output for testing motor speed.
ATX Power Supply $49
ATX Power Distribution Board $12 includes solderless breadboard and breadboard power supply adapter.
See http://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/blog/convert-atx-psu-to-bench-supply.html for notes on cooling, regulation, and other voltage combinations.
Become the Maker you were born to be. Try Arduino Academy for FREE!
