Powerful Multipurpose Source

Introduction

For For the line of projects and developments of Com in-Genio, a direct current voltage source was required, which could supply us from 3v to 12v as a minimum. Also power equipment with high loads, so it is required to supply currents greater than 10 amperes.

A source with these characteristics is difficult to obtain besides having a high cost.

The logical alternative was to design a team that would give us these characteristics and be quick to do.

We found the alternative of taking advantage of a low-cost computer source. Boosting its components would allow us to meet current and voltage requirements.

Related Projects What we will use

The sensitivity amplifier

The meter with multimeter

Power board

Purpose of the project

AWith our source we can have a team that allows us to provide power to projects as diverse as:

• 3D printers
• Projects with peltier cells to generate temperature
• Put tools into operation
• Lighting systems
• Automation projects
• Engine management
• Any project that requires the range of voltages described and current of 30 amps or more depending on the source with which we have.

The source will be used initially to power a refrigerator unit with peltier cells. A voltage of 12 vdc and currents of 25 amps to 38 amps are required depending on the configuration we use.

YTo improve the performance of the electronic circuit we rely on the main premise for the performance of an electronic component, the temperature; that is, having a correct temperature dissipation will allow a more stable behavior and lengthen the useful life of the element.

YFor this purpose we will improve the dissipater of the power transistors and we will include a second fan in the source, with the purpose of improving the air flow, with this we will be able to substantially lower the temperature of the elements, obtaining a better performance of the unit .

Materials

Source for economical desktop PC (600 watts minimum)

Thermal cream (used for processors)

Aluminum profile for heatsink

Computer fan 6cm (2 3/8 ") 5v dc

Terminal strip for 30 amp splices

Terminal strip for 5 amp splices

Cables several calibres according to applications (# 14 and # 18)

Tin solder

Small plastic ties

Simple switch for electronic circuits

Heat shrinkable

Handle for transport

Screws for metal

Threaded screws

Nuts

The Process

MWe will improve the aluminum heatsink of the power transistors and increase the flow of fresh air that enters the interior of the source.

TWe take advantage of the fact that the original aluminum heatsink has circular perforations to join by means of screws the aluminum profiles that we will use to improve the dissipation. Before joining the aluminum parts we apply thermal cream, to improve the heat transfer.

By increasing the dissipation area and forcing a constant air flow through these elements we reduce the temperature of the transistors.

The other option is to completely change the heatsink that has the source.

Remember that the new heatsinks must have a larger area and thickness to improve the heat dissipation of the power transistors. This change requires more time when you have to desolder the transistors, releasing them from the heatsink and having the correct dissipating element. The heatsink can be obtained from a damaged source or by manufacturing it.

Once armed, re-solder the transistors in their original place.

IThe additional fan will connect directly to the source card welding it to the negative voltage points and the positive to + 5Vsb.

Output voltage that is responsible for guaranteeing the work of the Stand By circuits in the processor, peripherals and motherboard.

IThe fan will remain on, as long as the source is connected to the outlet. In general, the new sources supply enough current at this point so that the fan we can connect can start.

Consider this value for future applications, in addition to the fan connection.

DDepending on the consumption of the project, you can change the caliber of the cables that come out of the source card, improving its performance and avoiding the overheating of the cables and the source.

Alternatives of Voltages:

• Leave them present with the original connector of the source.

• Cut the connector and use the voltages you require by means of a splice strip; disconnecting the rest of the cables from the source card.

• Cut the connector and use the voltages you require by means of a splice strip; The rest of the cables can be isolated and left rolled up inside the unit or taken directly to a connecting strip and cut the excess cable.

RRemember that whatever the configuration you want for your project, always have a black and green wire in your connection terminal or connector in an exclusive way to be able to control the ignition of the source.

IIn the video you will see that I am using the source only with:

12vdc as work voltages.

+5Vsb como voltaje alternativo para trabajo.

Y And the black (negative) and green wires for the source ignition.

Final Recommendations

IChoose the correct wiring for your project, avoid overheating that produces low performance, damage to equipment or users. See the supplied Caliber vs Current table in the article Measuring Alternating Current Devices.

IThe power cable of the multipurpose source must be changed, the one that comes with it is for a maximum consumption of 10 amps, I recommend a minimum one that allows a consumption of 15 amps. If you can not get it, the solution is to make your own cable according to the table and if this is the case, change the connection to the source.

YFinally, thank the follow-up that you are doing to our projects and invite them for the next project developed by Com in-Genio, until next time.