Electronics hobbyists often need a reliable, adjustable output voltage power supply to power various electronic devices and experimental circuits. How to convert a common charger into a small, portable, adjustable power supply. This tutorial will thoroughly introduce the required materials, steps and precautions so that you can complete this project with ease.
Part I: Materials Required
A common charger with an output voltage range of 12V to 24V
An adjustable voltage regulator such as the LM317
A good quality lab board
One double-ended pin
A wire cable
Resistors 1kΩ and 240Ω
A carrier board to hold the regulator and connectors
Part II: Steps
First, open the case of the charger and remove the circuit board to locate the output voltage selector switch as well as the output connector. Look carefully at the way the pins and wires are connected on the circuit board in order to understand how the circuit works.
Using duckbill pliers or a solder sucker, solder and unsolder the connecting wires on the circuit board, making sure that you don't damage the connecting wires or other components.
Solder a double-ended pin to the output port of the power connector so that the regulator can be connected directly to this.
Mount the carrier board on the lab board and secure the regulator and connector with screws.
Insert the regulator pins into their corresponding locations on the lab board and connect them using the wire cable. Take care to connect the pins correctly to avoid causing shorts or other faults.
Use a wire cable to connect resistor 1kΩ to the ADJ pin of the regulator and connect the other end to the output port of the regulator.
Connect resistor 240Ω between the regulator's ADJ pin and ground (GND), which will determine the output voltage range and regulation range.
Carefully check all connections and solder joints to make sure there are no poor contacts or shorts. If there are problems, repair and adjust accordingly.
The regulator's output voltage can now be measured by turning on the power and using a multimeter. The output voltage can be adjusted by turning the regulator's adjustment potentiometer using a screwdriver.
If you need to fix a specific output voltage, you can find out the best position of the adjusting potentiometer and use glue or other means to fix it.
Part III: Precautions
When DIY electronics, please be careful and make sure all steps are carried out in a safe environment. Avoid touching conductive components, especially when they are energized.
Always disconnect the power supply before connecting wires and performing soldering to avoid electric shock and equipment damage.
Always perform voltage tests and safety checks before the regulator operates properly.
Use the correct wires and connectors to ensure a reliable and stable connection to the circuit.
If you are unfamiliar with electronic circuits or are unsure if it can be done, consult a professional or abandon the project.
By converting a common charger into an adjustable power supply, we can obtain a portable, reliable power source that provides a stable voltage for our electronic devices and experiments. Simply follow the exhaustive steps above and you will be able to complete this DIY project. Not only will you be able to cut costs, but you will also be able to improve your skills as an electronics hobbyist.
