Best lab power supplies for 2020

A laboratory power supply is used to stabilize the power supply and ensure maximum accuracy. The peculiarity of this product is that it can be created with your own hands if a person has basic radio engineering knowledge. But not everyone has the time and desire for self-assembly and it is easier to buy a ready-made device with a guarantee. However, it is important to know the varieties of this device, and what to look for when buying in order to acquire a reliable and high-quality model.

The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best laboratory power supplies for 2020.

What types are there?

Today, stores sell linear and impulse power supplies. Each differs in functionality and purpose. Therefore, the first thing you need to decide on is the type of power supply.

Linear PSU

Such equipment works on the same principle as most static electromagnetic devices. The product stabilizes the input voltage up to 220 V, after which it is aligned with a diode bridge and some capacitors. Further, passing through the transistor stabilizer, the voltage drops to the required value so that the devices work correctly. Most of the devices have built-in short circuit protection.

The main advantage of a linear power supply is the absence of inductive elements. Therefore, the voltage that is obtained at the output is distinguished by its accuracy and high stability. There is also a downside, for example, a small part of the energy is lost in the area where the transistor regulator is located. This is where most of the voltage is converted into heat energy.

Pulse power supply

In this case, the principle of operation of the device is based on the charge of smoothing capacitors. The pulses are created by the inductor when it is turned on or off. It is also allowed to use a static electromagnetic device instead. The effectiveness of this solution will not get worse.

The switching takes place through special transistors. During this process, frequencies ranging from 10 kHz to 100 kHz can be generated. The output voltage is adjusted using the modulation depth, which simplifies the use of the device.

Advantages of switching power supplies:

• High level of efficiency, since the energy loss is minimal;
• Wide input voltage range;
• Small size;
• Low cost.

But even such a device has disadvantages:

• Difficult repair in case of breakdown of the main components;
• Low reliability.

Switching power supplies can be used not only in production areas, but also in domestic conditions. But mainly the scope of its application:

• TV;
• Radio;
• Security systems;
• Computer;
• Organization of video surveillance;
• Home appliances.

Output voltage and current range

Devices that have an output voltage of 18 to 60 V, with an allowable current level of 3-10 A. These are standard solutions that are suitable for most technical products.If the current value is over 10 A, then the gradation will be arbitrary.

It is necessary to select a device only on the basis of the assigned tasks. Because in some cases only 18 V is required and in others a higher value.

If a person is just starting to assemble or repair electronics, it is enough to buy a laboratory power supply for 30 V. This voltage is enough to power most of the equipment, so there will be no problems with power supply. If the budget is limited, then you can purchase a device up to 18 V, this solution is also not bad, but not suitable for every repair or testing.

The choice of current is simpler, because in most cases 5 A is sufficient. Thanks to this solution, you can test and debug most of the gadgets and radio equipment. But if a person is engaged in automotive electronics, then the optimal value is 10-20 A, you cannot take less. They also sell a power supply unit with an output current of up to 3 A, the scope of this device is small and is suitable only for programming microcontrollers, you should not count on more.

In addition, when purchasing a laboratory power supply, you should look at the accuracy and resolution. These are often the main parameters. If a cheap design is purchased, then it is impossible to count on the discreteness of the current measurement of more than 10 mA. And in cases where it is necessary to work with low-power devices or with equipment that runs on batteries, this value will not be enough. Therefore, it is important to determine the specifics of the work carried out before buying a power supply unit.

How many channels are required?

Most of the equipment is sold with one channel. For a simple technique, this is quite enough. But if a person plans to repair or create complex speaker systems, it is recommended to purchase two-channel models that have a serial connection. This solution makes it possible to obtain a bipolar voltage, which will allow for more accurate tuning.

In addition, two-channel power supplies can be used in cases where it is necessary to configure two or more devices or, for example, when repairing products with a large number of secondary power supplies. The only drawback of this solution is its high cost compared to single-channel PSUs. Often, it will be easier for a person to even assemble auxiliary equipment with his own hands and use it with a purchased power supply unit than to purchase a two-channel device.

Features of the interface

There are two types of PSUs in stores: programmable and standard. In the first case, the output voltage is set using a special keyboard or auxiliary keys. After that, a given parameter is formed in the current stabilization loop. The digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is also responsible for the conversion quality. The user just needs to enter the readings, after which the power supply will automatically adjust, but there will be a small error.

In standard power supplies, the voltage and current are set using a variable resistor. This element is connected to the feedback loop. All information is displayed on the display in real time. It is enough for a person to rotate the element in the right direction to achieve the corresponding result. Such a solution is distinguished by its economy, therefore it is present in many cheap devices.

Some non-programmable laboratory power supplies have one feature: when the device is turned on or off, a short-term voltage surge occurs. If a device was connected at this time, then this can turn out to be tragic for the radio elements, since they will break. Therefore, it is important to check with the consultant if there is such a problem in order to save yourself from unforeseen circumstances.

The last thing to pay attention to is the indication. If a person buys programmable equipment, the current and voltage will be displayed on a convenient liquid crystal display, which will simplify the operation.But if an ordinary laboratory power supply is purchased, then you should be ready for the arrow indication, which is inferior in accuracy to the previous copy.

Rating of the most inexpensive power supplies

Element 1502D +

An excellent device designed to work with electronic devices. The product is protected against short circuit and overvoltage. For greater convenience, there is a USB interface, which makes it possible to connect the device to a personal computer or laptop. There is also a voltage limitation of 5 V, which is useful when repairing cell phones, since the gadget will not be damaged due to high overvoltage.

The power supply unit is equipped with a convenient digital display that shows parameters in real time. To change the current and voltage, special regulators on the front panel are used. The set includes a set of wires.

Sold at a price: from 1,590 rubles.

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Ya Xun PS-1502DD

A Chinese device that is distinguished by high-quality assembly and a low price. There is a voltage regulation of 0-15 V, which is suitable for repairing smartphones and tablets. If the user sets the value to 10 V, then the current protection is 0-2 A, with a higher indicator - 0-1 A. For more convenience, there is a high-quality current indication.

The power supply has built-in short-circuit protection, the operating current is 2 A. It works at temperatures from -20 to 80 degrees. The package contains a manual, test leads and a power cord.

Average cost: from 1,650 rubles.

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YIHUA 1502DD +

Single-channel device suitable for setting up and repairing undemanding equipment. The maximum output voltage is 15 V, the output current is 2 A. It can be connected to a power supply from 100 to 240 V. The product has a small size and weighs only 1 kg, so there will be no problems with transportation. There is a short circuit protection, which allows you to work safer. The product is covered by a 6-month warranty.

Sold at a price: from 1,730 rubles.

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Masters 1502D

High-quality power supply unit with convenient voltage and current indication. The device is protected against high voltage and short circuit. Therefore, with sharp surges, the connected equipment will not fail, which guarantees a quality repair. Output voltage 0-15 V, current up to 2 A. The equipment is capable of operating at temperatures of -10 ... 40 degrees. The measurement accuracy is 0.01 A, which is a positive result for the budgetary funds.

Average cost: from 1,780 rubles.

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Rating of the best products in the middle price segment

UnionTEST HY3005D

A high-quality device that is suitable for repairing various equipment. Permissible adjustment U out. 0-30 V, while the value of the output current is up to 5 A. It is powered from a 220 V network, which is a convenient solution. The voltage ripple is over 0.5mV. Number of channels - 1 adjustable. For greater reliability, there is short circuit protection. Construction weight - 4 kg.

The average cost is 7 140 rubles.

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MAISHENG MS603D

An excellent product that can change the output voltage from 0 to 60 V. The maximum output power is 180 W. It is powered from a 220 V.For more comfort, there is quality air cooling and overvoltage and overheating protection. There are three LED displays. It is stored at temperatures of -20 ... 80 degrees, while it is recommended to work only in rooms where 0 or more degrees, otherwise the device will fail.

Sold at a price of 7 400 rubles.

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Atten (Gratten) APS3005D

A reliable device that features high-quality assembly and a long service life. U out. adjustable in the range from 0 to 30 V, while the maximum output current is 5 A, which is ideal for repairing and adjusting phones, tablets and similar equipment. All the necessary protections are present, including overheating, which simplifies operation.

Average cost: from 9,200 rubles.

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OWON P4305

Single channel linear power supply with easy regulation and high reliability. Maximum output voltage is 30 V, current is 5 A. The product is characterized by high stability and low ripple, which is a positive moment.

The control is completely digital, which contributes to convenience, while the response time is only 100 μs. There is an electronic load shedding. The cooling system is equipped with intelligent airflow, which eliminates the possibility of overheating. Remote control is supported.

The average cost is 14,000 rubles.

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Rating of the best laboratory power supplies of premium class

Good Will GPR-73060D

High quality device with U out. up to 30 V and current up to 6 A, which is suitable for professional use. The product is characterized by high stability and low ripple level, which allows for more accurate diagnostics. The peculiarity of the laboratory unit is that it is entered in the state register, so the readings obtained can be used for scientific work. The mass of the structure is 10.7 kg.

Sold at a price of 35,000 rubles.

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AKIP 1125

Chinese device with maximum U out. 150 V and a power of 180 W. The product is perfect for setting up electronic equipment and conducting research. Remote control is supported for added convenience. The cooling system is made with high quality, so the chance of overheating is minimal.

The average price is 32,000 rubles.

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Itech IT6302

A three-channel device that allows you to repair and diagnose several devices at once. The maximum output power is 195W, which is a good result. Ripple and noise are minimal, so accuracy is virtually unaffected. The internal memory is designed for 27 cells. There is protection against short circuit and overvoltage. The cooling system is forced.

Sold at a price of 35,000 rubles.

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Finally

No research radio engineering work can be imagined without a laboratory power supply. You can buy a suitable option for up to 30,000 rubles, while the device will meet all the requirements and will only allow you to enter verified results.If you have experience using the models described in the rating, or more interesting representatives, tell us about it in the comments.