DC Power Supplies

The REDARC DC Power Supply range has models with selectable voltage outputs of 12 and 24 volts, providing regulated power from an input of 9 to 32 volts. The REDARC DC Power Supply has in-built protection against spikes/surges and reverse polarity to protect your appliances and your vehicle’s dual battery system.

View as Grid List

4 Items

per page
Set Descending Direction
View as Grid List

4 Items

per page
Set Descending Direction

CONSTANT AND STABLE DC POWER

A DC Power Supply is an electrical device that provides a constant and stable output voltage (current) in direct current (DC) form. It is used to power electronic devices, circuits, and systems that require a specific level of voltage or current to function correctly.

A DC Power Supply is a crucial tool in electronics, as it provides a stable and controlled source of power for testing and operating electronic components. So, to upgrade your 4WD or camping setup, buy a REDARC DC Power Supply today. While you’re here, if you’re not quite sure what you need, head to our Support section or give our Tech team a call.

DC POWER SUPPLIES FAQ

ARE DC POWER SUPPLIES UNIVERSAL?

DC power supplies are not universal because they need to match specific requirements of the device they power. Here are the key factors to consider:

  • Voltage: Must match the device's required voltage
  • Current (Amperage): Must provide at least as much current as the device needs
  • Connector Type: Must fit the device's power input
  • Polarity: Positive and negative connections must match
  • Quality: Some devices need stable and low-noise power supplies
  • Always check these factors to ensure compatibility

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AC AND DC POWER SUPPLIES?

The primary difference between AC and DC power supplies lies in the way electric charges flow and the characteristics of the voltage and current. AC power alternates in direction, while DC power flows steadily in one direction.

HOW DO DC POWER SUPPLIES WORK?

DC power supplies are, in essence, a type of voltage converter. They work by converting the available input voltage (which might be AC or DC) into a stable and controlled output voltage in direct current (DC) form.

HOW DO YOU CHARGE A LITHIUM-ION BATTERY WITH A DC POWER SUPPLY?

  • Check battery specifications: Before charging, make sure you know the battery's voltage and capacity specifications. Lithium-ion batteries have specific voltage ranges and charging currents that should not be exceeded to prevent damage or safety hazards.
  • Choose a suitable DC power supply: Select a DC power supply that matches the battery's voltage and provides a safe current for charging. Make sure the power supply is well-regulated and stable.
  • Connect the battery: Use suitable connectors or terminals to connect the positive and negative terminals of the battery to the corresponding terminals of the DC power supply.
  • Current limiting: Lithium-ion batteries should be charged with a controlled current. A safe guide is to charge at a current around 0.5 to 1 times the battery's capacity (in ampere-hours, Ah). For example, if the battery capacity is 2000mAh (2Ah), you could start with a charging current of 1A.
  • Voltage limiting: The charging voltage should not exceed the battery's maximum charging voltage, which is typically around 4.2 volts for most lithium-ion batteries. Set the DC power supply to the appropriate voltage or slightly below the battery's maximum charging voltage.
  • Monitoring: Monitor the charging process carefully. Some DC power supplies have built-in voltage and current displays. If not, use a multimeter to measure the charging voltage and current. Keep an eye on the battery's temperature – if it becomes excessively hot, stop charging immediately.

HOW TO TEST A DC POWER SUPPLY?

To test a DC power supply, follow the below steps.

Materials required:

  • Digital multimeter
  • Test leads
  • The DC power supply being tested

Steps:

Safety First: Ensure the power supply is turned off and unplugged before starting.

Set Up the Multimeter

  • Turn on the multimeter.
  • Set it to measure DC voltage (usually indicated by a "V" with a straight line and a dotted line below it).

Connect the Test Leads

  • Plug the black (negative) lead into the common (COM) port of the multimeter.
  • Plug the red (positive) lead into the port labeled with a "V" or "Volt."
  • Turn On the Power Supply: Plug in and turn on the DC power supply.

Measure the Output Voltage

  • Touch the black (negative) test lead to the negative terminal (or outer part of the connector) of the power supply.
  • Touch the red (positive) test lead to the positive terminal (or inner part of the connector) of the power supply.
  • Read the voltage displayed on the multimeter. It should match the expected output voltage of the power supply.

Important Tips

  • Ensure the multimeter's settings and range are appropriate for the expected voltage and current.
  • Double-check connections to avoid short circuits.
  • Be cautious when handling electrical components to prevent electric shock or damage.

By following these steps, you can accurately test a DC power supply for proper voltage and current output.

Need a little help with choosing the right product? We're here to help! You can use our handy vehicle look-up tool, find a local installer or stockist in your area or check out our FAQs.

Still not sure? Don't stress, you can contact our helpful Tech Support Team by phone or email too.

NEED SOME HELP?

FIND LOCAL INSTALLER
TECH HELP

Need a little help with choosing the right product? We're here to help! You can use our handy vehicle look-up tool, find a local installer or stockist in your area or check out our FAQs.

Still not sure? Don't stress, you can contact our helpful Tech Support Team by phone or email too.

FIND REDARC AT LEADING RETAILERS & SPECIALISTS