power source for bench testing

[Gerald C.]

I'm looking to bench test P/W motors, etc and I'm looking for a reliable source of power.

Any suggestions, other than using the battery out of the car?

Thanks,

Jerry

[Jack H.]

Re: power source for bench testing

YES! In the world of laboratory grade, regulated, power supplies, there's a segment that caters SPECIFICALLY to the automotive test crowd.

You'll find there's a pretty healthy selection from various mfgrs in this area. These supplies have a FIXED, regulated, output voltage in the range of 13.8-14.2 VDC. Different models will have different max current ratings, typically in 20, 25, 30, 40A, Etc. ranges.

They're designed to automatically 'crowbar' when they reach their rated max current output, so you can't 'blow' the supply while you're working on the bench and they usually have pretty healthy 'standby' current reserves so they don't false-crowbar when you connect inductive loads that pose HEAFTY start-up current demands (e.g. Wonderbar radios with signal seeking solenoids, DC motors, Etc.).

You can search eBay for used PS units or Google around for new supplies. The last time I went shopping for one, I found a decent 35A supply in a small package based on switching regulator technology vs. linear design that ran something like $80 new...

[Gerald C.]

Re: power source for bench testing

Any name brands/models #'s??

Thanks

[Jack H.]

Re: power source for bench testing

Source for the one I'm using was Radio Shack Industrial. But, that division of Tandy has been closed/shut for many years now.

So, fire up your Google search engine with 'automotive bench power supply' or '13.8V power supply' and go shopping...

[Joe R.]

Re: power source for bench testing

Jerry,

First you have to decide how much maximum current you need. If you're buying new, I would try Allied Electronics, Mouser and Digikey online. For used, try eBay.

Joe

[Bill I.]

Re: power source for bench testing

Suggest you check places that sell Amateur Radio equipment. Astron make a good one. 35Amp, with 2 meters, one showing input voltage, the other draw in amps. Bill.

[John H.]

Re: power source for bench testing

I keep two spare batteries around that I've pulled out of other cars when installing new ones; they weren't much good in the cars any more when replaced, but they're fine for bench testing. I put a Battery Tender on them occasionally to keep them alive, and made up a set of test leads with an in-line fuseholder.

[Mike M.]

Re: power source for bench testing

i've used a standard battery charger for years and haven't cooked a motor yet. mike