Be wary of power supplies that have digital readouts but are not digitally controlled. They are hard to adjust with any precision, and they will drift. I bought a cheap Chinese-made PS awhile back and learned the hard way. What's worse, I have to disconnect all the leads before I turn it off, because the voltage output spikes during shutdown.
Stick to known brands like B&K Precision or Extech, and you should not have a problem.
At work, we have bunches of MPJA bench supplies that work fine as long as you're aware of the issues. For cases where we need more precision and consistency, we use gw-instek, but that's probably not within your $150 range.
In another thread, you were discussing power distibution boards. Does this have anything to do with that? If so, I am just wondering why you just don't create one. Of course, there are obvious reasons, but if you just need known voltages, with the ability to handle a specific amount of current, then there are a couple routes to go besides buying a manufactured unit. You can also make small variable power supplies pretty easily.
What are you going to do with it? Depending on the project, there are times when a linear power supply is a better choice, as compared to a switch mode power supply. For instance, if you providing power for motors, then linear is most likely your best bet.
I personally find power supplies very interesting, especially the linear type, because they are simple to make Switch modes are way over my head, so I will leave them to the pros. Transformers are everywhere... Most electrical devices contain some type of transformer, and I always salvage them when junking something.
I know I have this in another thread, but this is one of my all time favorites. I did not create it and I forget the source, but I am including it here, just in case someone else likes the idea. Just add transformer
All linear power supplies have the same basic make up and theory, at least to my knowledge.
Bruce
EDIT: Additionally, PC power supply units provide a wide array of voltages, if wired correctly, you can even get 24V out of them. There is a lot of information on the internet about converting PC PSUs to benchtop power supplies, for example, here is a link (I am not endorsing this articles accuracy) http://web2.murraystate.edu/andy.batts/ps/POWERSUPPLY.HTM
At work, we have bunches of MPJA bench supplies that work fine as long as you're aware of the issues. For cases where we need more precision and consistency, we use gw-instek, but that's probably not within your $150 range.
I've got one of those, There OK-ish. They only have one pot for the voltage so it feels a bit over-sensitive when trying to set the voltage and the current sense stop working in mine after 12-months :-(
I have been using a product called "ATX Breakout Board" - a Dangerous Prototypes piece available at Seeed. Just plug it into a PC Power supply and go! It's pretty nice for a non-adjustable power source. If you need more precision or something adjustable, then it may not be for you.
I think a lot of things can be done with that breakout board as a principle idea. Extremely cool and ingenious. Just make a PCB with the desired circuitry and plug in a PC PSU. Very, very cool.
You can sometimes find good deals ($100-$200) on HP/Agilent E36XX series units on eBay. Not a bad choice if the the voltage /current range fits your needs. BK Precision is also good. For simple needs, just build one with an LM317. You can add a 7660 and an LM385 or similar and get close to zero volts if you really need it. Current limiting can be done but it's a bit more complex.
In another thread, you were discussing power distibution boards. Does this have anything to do with that?
EDIT: Additionally, PC power supply units provide a wide array of voltages, if wired correctly, you can even get 24V out of them. There is a lot of information on the internet about converting PC PSUs to benchtop power supplies, for example, here is a link (I am not endorsing this articles accuracy) http://web2.murraystate.edu/andy.batts/ps/POWERSUPPLY.HTM
No, The PDB is for a robot. I have considered building one from a computer PSU. However, I am busy and just want a good one for running my experiments with and I was also going to put it on my Christmas "want" list. I am also getting a solder station but was advised to stay away from the All In Ones.
I've an old instek ps-3030 (32V, 3A) with analog meters and its done great service, seems bomb-proof. The newer models (gps-3030) have digital meters of course
but look the same arrangement, fine + coarse for both current limit and voltage, 2 current ranges (1.5A, 3A). Nice big on/off button that's easy to find in a hurry!
NWCCTV
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http://www.kitsusa.net/phpstore/html/Power-Supplies-ASSEMBLED-71-1.html
Stick to known brands like B&K Precision or Extech, and you should not have a problem.
-Phil
Duane J
I am currently using this one:
http://www.kitsusa.net/phpstore/html/HY3005D-3-MASTECH-Triple-Output-Variable-DC-Power-Supply-Digital---2X-0-30V0-5A-1X-5V3A-DC-6179.html
You might pick a couple of these model numbers then search the internet for reviews.
http://www.kitsusa.net/phpstore/index.php?l=product_images&p=6179
I'd stay away from it for the reasons noted. Plus, the inside of it is just scary.
-Phil
SparkFun sells one for $260 (https://www.sparkfun.com/products/9291) that they rave about. I have no personal experience with it, though.
In another thread, you were discussing power distibution boards. Does this have anything to do with that? If so, I am just wondering why you just don't create one. Of course, there are obvious reasons, but if you just need known voltages, with the ability to handle a specific amount of current, then there are a couple routes to go besides buying a manufactured unit. You can also make small variable power supplies pretty easily.
What are you going to do with it? Depending on the project, there are times when a linear power supply is a better choice, as compared to a switch mode power supply. For instance, if you providing power for motors, then linear is most likely your best bet.
I personally find power supplies very interesting, especially the linear type, because they are simple to make
I know I have this in another thread, but this is one of my all time favorites. I did not create it and I forget the source, but I am including it here, just in case someone else likes the idea. Just add transformer
All linear power supplies have the same basic make up and theory, at least to my knowledge.
Bruce
EDIT: Additionally, PC power supply units provide a wide array of voltages, if wired correctly, you can even get 24V out of them. There is a lot of information on the internet about converting PC PSUs to benchtop power supplies, for example, here is a link (I am not endorsing this articles accuracy) http://web2.murraystate.edu/andy.batts/ps/POWERSUPPLY.HTM
http://www.jameco.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10001_10001_301971_-1
Nothing fancy but they seem to work well for what they are.
The only thing I don't like is that the minimum voltage is about 1.2V not zero. And there is no current limit setting.
Bean
http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/atx-breakout-board-bench-power-supply-p-1222.html?cPath=155
I like it!!!!!!!!!!
I think a lot of things can be done with that breakout board as a principle idea. Extremely cool and ingenious. Just make a PCB with the desired circuitry and plug in a PC PSU. Very, very cool.
Thanks for sharing.
Bruce
http://www.web-tronics.com/programmable-bench-power-supply-csi3645a.html
No, The PDB is for a robot. I have considered building one from a computer PSU. However, I am busy and just want a good one for running my experiments with and I was also going to put it on my Christmas "want" list. I am also getting a solder station but was advised to stay away from the All In Ones.
0- 36V or 50V and to about 3 AMP.
FF
but look the same arrangement, fine + coarse for both current limit and voltage, 2 current ranges (1.5A, 3A). Nice big on/off button that's easy to find in a hurry!