Examining a Budget-Friendly Bench Power Supply Available on Amazon
Affordable Bench Power Supply Units: Are they Reliable?
A closer examination of budget bench power supply units (PSUs), often rebranded and available at a fraction of name-brand counterparts, reveals several notable compromises.
- Simplicity and Convenience: Many inexpensive PSUs lack basic features such as an output power switch and straightforward methods for setting voltage and current limits [1]. This can lead to inconvenience and potential safety hazards.
- Electrical Performance: These units may display inconsistent electrical performance. Issues such as high output noise, optimistic maximum power output ratings, and slow voltage adjustments due to the absence of discharge circuits are not uncommon [1].
- Safety Concerns: When tested, these power supplies often exhibit suboptimal electrical performance, potentially leading to inaccurate measurements and unreliable performance for sensitive electronics. Safety features, such as overvoltage and overcurrent protection, may also be lacking [1].
The general recommendation is to choose a bench PSU that offers not only suitable voltage and current output ranges but also advanced features for greater accuracy and safety. Opt for units with an output power button, easy-to-use voltage and current limit adjustment mechanisms, and comprehensive protection from issues like over- and undervoltage, overcurrent, and thermal overloads [2][4].
It's crucial to avoid connecting a budget PSU to any devices that require clean, filtered output voltages due to the potential for noise and ripple [3].
For cost-conscious users, an old PC power supply (ATX PSU) can be a budget-friendly alternative, albeit with limitations in terms of voltage and current capacity for certain rails [4][5]. However, the conversion process may lead to reduced overall reliability compared to dedicated bench PSUs.
When considering a bench PSU, prioritize precision, regulation, and protection features, along with suitable voltage and current ranges, form factor, and support options, to ensure your equipment remains safeguarded and delivers reliable performance.
References:[1] Denki Otaku. (n.d.). Deep dive into a cheap $14.5 bench power supply from Amazon Japan. Retrieved April 15, 2023, from https://denkiotaku.org/2023/03/11/cheap-amazon-japan-bench-power-supply/
[2] Elliott, D. (2013, February 28). Choosing a capacitor discharge power supply. EDN. Retrieved April 15, 2023, from https://www.edn.com/choosing-a-capacitor-discharge-power-supply/
[3] Metcalfe, M. (2019, July 1). Understanding the quality and limitations of low-cost bench power supplies. Retrieved April 15, 2023, from https://www.tindie.com/blog/jamesjetz/understanding-the-quality-and-limitations-of-low-cost-bench-power-supplies/
[4] Power Supplies: DC Power Systems & Accessories. (n.d.). Retrieved April 15, 2023, from https://www.digikey.com/products/en/power-supply-parts/power-adapters/832
[5] Is it safe to repurpose an old PC power supply (ATX PSU)? (n.d.). Retrieved April 15, 2023, from https://www.eeweb.com/forum/power-supply-design/is-it-safe-to-repurpose-an-old-pc-power-supply-atx-psu/1924877-post2/
Despite the affordability of certain bench power supply units (PSUs), they may lack essential features such as output power switches and straightforward methods for setting voltage and current limits [1]. This can lead to inconvenience and potential safety hazards.
Moreover, these inexpensive PSUs can exhibit inconsistent electrical performance, with issues like high output noise, optimistic maximum power output ratings, and slow voltage adjustments due to the absence of discharge circuits being common [1]. Such inconsistencies can potentially affect the performance of sensitive electronics and technology.
