Power supplies

The power supply plays a key role in ensuring that the voltage is properly adjusted to the requirements of a given device. A well-functioning power supply is crucial not only for the proper functioning of devices, but also for ensuring safety. Incorrectly adjusted voltage can lead to damage to the device or even danger to the user, e.g. through overheating, overvoltage or other undesirable phenomena.

What does it look like in practice?

The task of each power supply is to convert the alternating voltage (AC) to direct voltage (DC) or adapt the already existing voltage to meet the requirements of the device. This is especially important in the case of electronic devices such as computers, TV sets, smartphones or other similar devices that require a stable and properly configured power source. The power supplies can also convert the supply voltage (e.g. from the mains) suitable for a given type of bulbs, LED strips, light panels and other types of lighting. Thanks to this, we can regulate the current or control the brightness of the light, allowing you to adjust the light intensity to your preferences.

Universal power supplies

Power supplies may differ from each other, depending on their technical parameters and functions. The type of power supply, power and output voltage or regulation, as well as stabilization are just some of the discrepancies between individual products. What models do we have?

Linear power supplies (traditional)

The operation of this type of power supplies is based on the use of a transformer to change the voltage and stabilize the current using a transistor. However, due to – such as low energy efficiency, large size and high heat generation – they are used less and less in modern solutions.

Switch-mode power supplies

They operate based on voltage converters – they are distinguished by higher energy efficiency, smaller sizes and a lower degree of heat release. They use more advanced electronic circuits that allow for more efficient processing and voltage regulation. Today, the ideal solution for most electrical applications is to choose a 12V or 24V switched-mode power supply – they will work, for example, for tapes or LED drivers.

Special purpose power supplies

In addition to traditional solutions, we also offer special purpose power supplies. Those designed for specific applications can be divided into:

• power generators (power devices constituting an independent source of electricity),
• capacitors (elements of the power supply that are used to generate and store energy),
• interference suppressors,
• converters (devices that allow powering receivers of electricity from power supply systems whose current-voltage parameters do not allow for direct connection to the receiver),
• electronic ballasts for halogen bulbs,
• interference suppressors.

How to choose the right power supply?

Wattage is a key parameter of a power supply as it determines the amount of energy it can deliver to the powered device. It is expressed in watts (W), assuming that 1 W (watt) is the power consumed by a device powered by 1 V (volt) at 1 A (ampere). Calculating the power is simple and you can use the following formula:

Power (W) = Voltage (V) × current (A)

This formula allows you to calculate the power of the power supply, taking into account the value of the voltage and current provided by it. The higher the power of the power supply, the more energy it can provide, which is especially important for devices with higher energy requirements.

In practice, the selection of a power supply with the appropriate power is essential to ensure proper operation of the device and to avoid overloading or underpowering. That is why it is so important to check the power requirements provided by the device manufacturer and adjust the power supply to them.

In addition, it is worth paying attention to parameters such as:

• type (AC or DC – choose a power adapter that is compatible with the requirements of the device being powered),
• output voltage value and range (output voltage range should be sufficient to meet various operating conditions),
• standby efficiency and power (the efficiency of the power supply, i.e. the ratio of the power supplied to the power consumed from the network, the higher it is, the more energy efficient the power supply is. In addition, in the standby mode, the power consumed by the power supply in the idle state is determined),
• stability of output voltage or current with changing input and load levels (linear versus pulse mode),
• range of operating and storage temperatures and heat dissipation (must be adapted to work in a specific temperature range. In addition, it is important that the power supply is properly cooled and dissipates heat),
• protections (does it even contain elements protecting against short circuit, overload, overcurrent or overvoltage).

All of these factors affect the performance of power supplies, whether they are switched-mode, conventional, or aggregate. Neither active nor reactive power can be exceeded in any of these devices, as it may result in irreversible damage. To ensure a longer life for your device, it is important to take care of its proper working conditions – overheating will result in permanent damage and compromise safety.

If you need a traditional, switched-mode (also built-in) or specialized power supply, we will certainly find a solution – we will help you choose the best product. Our power supplies can easily handle such installations as: light dimmer, stair lighting controller or LED controller. By choosing power supplies in our store, you get a guarantee of high quality and products from reputable manufacturers. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the offer!