RS offers a wide selection of power supply units (PSUs) for various domestic and industrial applications. Our range of power supplies includes AC-DC power supply adapters and desktop computer power supplies, which are suitable for domestic applications. We also carry industrial power supplies such as bench power supplies, DIN Rail power supplies, panel mount power supplies, and switch mode power supplies.
What are Power Supplies?
Power supplies are a crucial aspect of any electrical equipment, providing reliable power to machinery, computers or other technology devices. A power supply changes a source electric current, such as a mains plug, to the correct voltage, frequency and current needed to operate the equipment safely.
How Do Power Supplies Work?
A power supply is used to reduce mains or three-phase electricity, often at 240 Vac or 440 Vac, down to a voltage that is usable, such as 12 Vdc. The power supply unit also converts the current rating, in the form of AMPS, to a level that is safe for the device to be powered. The key features enabling this functionality include:
- Voltage regulation: Ensures output voltage remains stable regardless of variations in load or input voltage, which is crucial for the consistent operation and longevity of electronic devices.
- Efficiency ratings: Indicates how much input power is effectively converted into output power, with higher ratings denoting less energy lost as heat, leading to reduced operational costs.
- Noise and ripple levels: Critical for maintaining the purity of the power supply output, ensuring that electronic devices operate without interference from electrical noise.
- Overload and short-circuit protection: Protects the power supply and connected devices from damage in the event of an overload or short circuit, enhancing safety and reliability.
- Cooling methods: Essential for managing the heat generated by the power supply, which affects efficiency and operational lifespan.
What is the Difference Between Types of Power Supplies?
There are three main types of power supplies:
- Unregulated power supplies: These are basic, outputting a variable voltage with significant ripple. They are simple and cost-effective but lack precision.
- Linear power supplies: They improve upon this by adding a transistor circuit to stabilise output voltage. They provide consistent performance but are less efficient and generate more heat.
- Switch mode power supplies (SMPS): These convert main AC to high-frequency AC and then back to DC, offering high efficiency and stable output under varying load conditions.
It's also beneficial to consider the following technical specifications when you're looking to buy power supplies, as they determine the suitability and performance:
- Input voltage range: Indicates the range of voltage the power supply can handle, which is crucial for ensuring compatibility with power sources in different regions and for handling voltage fluctuations.
- Output voltage and current: This is essential for matching the power supply to the specific voltage and current requirements of the device it powers, ensuring optimal performance without risk of damage.
- Power factor correction (PFC): This improves the power factor of the power supply, reducing the amount of reactive power generated. This leads to more efficient power consumption and reduced stress on the electrical infrastructure.
- MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures): MTBF is a measure of reliability. A higher MTBF indicates a longer expected operational life for the power supply, which is critical for applications where power supply failures can lead to significant downtime or safety issues.
What is Power Supply Efficiency?
Power supply efficiency is known as the amount of power actually provided to the internal circuitry divided by the amount of power drawn from the mains supply. If a PSU is 50% efficient and is required to provide 50 Watts of power, 100 Watts will be drawn from the main supply. The extra 50 W is lost as heat. A 90% efficient PSU would draw 56 W in the same circumstances.
Industry Applications
Power supply units are integral to various industries, providing reliable and efficient power solutions tailored to specific requirements.
- Discrete manufacturing: Industrial power supply units support automation by powering control systems and robotic equipment, crucial for precise manufacturing processes.
- Process manufacturing: They regulate power for machinery that mixes, cooks, or chemically transforms products, ensuring consistent quality.
- Energy & utilities: Industrial power supply units are vital for the stable operation of equipment monitoring and controlling energy production and distribution.
- Facilities intralogistics: They facilitate the smooth operation of automated warehousing equipment, from conveyor belts to sorting systems, enhancing efficiency and throughput.
Your Trusted Power Supplies Supplier & Distributor
RS is a globally recognised and trusted supplier, distributor and manufacturer of power supplies, widely utilised across Australia. Our products are designed to meet the highest standards of performance and reliability. Additionally, we offer an extensive and diverse range of power supplies tailored for various applications, from industrial to innovative projects, which can be bought at wholesale rates.
If you’re looking to buy power supplies for critical industrial environments or cutting-edge technological innovations, RS consistently delivers high-performance solutions. Trust RS to empower your projects with dependable and efficient power supplies. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery Page.
