ATX R/C power supply
While searching for a 12v power supply for my R/C battery chargers and equalising trays, I came across this article which details how to build a lab power supply from an ATX computer power supply.
I salvaged an Aopen power supply from a retired PC. The nice thing about this particular unit is it is rated for 15A on the 12v rail. That would provide enough amperage to power both chargers with headroom for some additional hardware.
Empty space inside the PSU was non-existent, hence my reason for mounting the banana plugs outside of the box. A cut-off of some aluminium angle served as a suitable mounting bracket. It’s attached with double-sided tape.
In the end, I settled on three sets of inputs. The two sets on the right are designed for higher amperage loads (3x 12v wires per plug) while the set on the left is suitable for smaller loads (1x 12v wire per plug).
The resistor (required to provide a small load which keeps the PSU activated) is attached to the case with a mixture of superglue and Arctic Silver heatsink compund. This allows the case to act as a heatsink.
The final touches are rubber feet, a metal handle and some cable organisers for the main power cord.
Overall, this project cost me AUD$10 in parts and I’m damn happy with the result. I’m able to charge two batteries and equalise/discharge a third all from the one power supply.
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January 28th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
This is a damn clever use for a discarded computer PS. I’m amazed you can get 15A on the 12V rail!
February 4th, 2008 at 8:14 am
I have done this many a time. briliant idea, and you made it look awsome! NICE!!