PARTS LIST FOR VARIABLE POWER SUPPLY

Qty.             Resistors

1                                    150Ω 5% ½ W

1                                     1kΩ 5% ½ W

1                                     330kΩ 5% ½ W

1                                     15kΩ 5% ½ W

1                                     2.5kΩ Potentiometer

                      Capacitors

1                                     10µF 35V Electrolytic (axial)

1                                     1,000µF 35V Electrolytic (radial)

                      Semiconductors

2                                     1N4001 Diode

1                                     LM-317 Voltage Regulator

1                                     LED (red)

                       Misc

1                                     Transformer 120VAC 60Hz to 26.2V 2A

1                                     Red Binding Post

1                                     Black Binding post

1                                     Analog Ammeter (0-50µA)

1                                     Fuse Holder (1-2A fuses)

1                                     SpSt Switch (on/off)

1                                     Knob

1                                     LED Holder

1                                     Project Enclosure

1                                     Circuit Board

1                                     Power cord

1                                     Grommet 

 

 

 

 

 

For this project I decided to build a variable power supply. I chose this so that while I am learning my trade I also am building things I will need to start my lab space at home. In my first report I talked about the price of variable power supplies being costly and that I want one so I can start working on more labs and projects at home. I solved the problem of not having variable power to use my proto-board at home and start more projects. I had a great time building this project from drawing out the first design and schematic, to soldering, troubleshooting and completing the project. I ran in to a couple minor mistakes while building but overall I showed myself that I have the knowledge and drive to start and complete project of this nature and how much I enjoy it.

When I started the power supply I finished the build in a single weekend as soon as I had all the parts. This project was just the start, I have 2 other projects I completed for two other classes and am doing three more at home on my own. I honestly didn’t have any problems that I couldn’t solve quickly on this power supply, I had a couple connection wired wrong at the beginning but caught them right away. Putting a analog ammeter on the front of the project sure made it look a lot better and add to the functionality.

I learned how to complete a project and document the whole thing from beginning to end. I also learned about voltage regulators and more in depth information about transformers. This knowledge is very useful for me due to the fact that I will need to build power supplies for other projects that need their own independent power. I already am building a fixed 5 volt power supply for my digital clock. I’m really excited about all of these projects I am doing and have started a website for each project I complete. The site shows pictures and documents the whole process from start to troubleshooting to end. Thanks for the inspiration!