Question about a converted computer power supply - RC-Monster Forums

BrianG · 08.17.2009, 01:17 PM

Post a pic of the supply if you can. Particularly clear shots of the internals (looking down) and the motherboard connector. Depending on the model, there may be ways to actually boost the voltage. Adding a load to the 5v and/or 3.3v line usually just makes the voltage more stable under load at 12v, but will still dip and may fall under the 11v lower limit of some chargers. I like getting the output anywhere from 12.5v up to 14.5v.

KaztheMinotaur · 08.17.2009, 01:42 PM

I'll try to get some pics but it seems real crowded in there.

How else can I boost the voltage?

whitrzac · 08.17.2009, 03:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KaztheMinotaur

I'll try to get some pics but it seems real crowded in there.

How else can I boost the voltage?

idk how, but...

http://www.hobbycity.com/hobbycity/s...Chargers_(350W)

zeropointbug · 08.17.2009, 03:51 PM

Yes, there could be pots in there that can be adjusted to a certain degree, maybe .5 - 1.0 volts +/-.

If it's a decent power supply, they can always hold at least 11.8 volts a heavy load, some PSU's are so so stable that they don't even flinch under the most extreme loads.

Post a link to the model you purchased.

KaztheMinotaur · 08.17.2009, 04:05 PM

http://www.chiefmax.com/psu/cm650-24pin.php

zeropointbug · 08.17.2009, 07:11 PM

Well 650watts should do it, but alot (alot) of the cheapo computer PSU's have a hard time keeping up with any kind of load.

How much did you pay for it shipped?

KaztheMinotaur · 08.17.2009, 08:19 PM

$25

I was practicing on my old power supply and got the up to 12.46 with 2 1 ohm resistors paralled on the 5V line. It drops about a volt under load though.

BrianG · 08.17.2009, 08:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KaztheMinotaur

...How else can I boost the voltage?

Aside from loading the 5v/3.3v line (which simply stabilize the line if anything), the method to boost depends on the design. That's why I asked for pics. There could be a pot inside for tweaking the voltage, or the motherboard connector could have a feedback wire. From personal experience, the feedback wire makes for the best and most stable boost, but some don't have it. Like I said, it depends.

Heck, just hook her up and see what it does under load. As long as it stays at or above 11.5v at the max loaded output, then you're fine. I just personally like having a higher voltage for efficiency, and makes the charger's switching supply not work so hard.