ATX computer power supply as a power pack?

martinedwards

I've googled and there seem to be folks doing this......

I have access to ATX supplies.....

anyone else had a go with this?

brownmini

martinedwards wrote: »

I've googled and there seem to be folks doing this......
I have access to ATX supplies.....
anyone else had a go with this?

Elektor had an article about using a PC PSU as a general PSU about 2 years ago.
Suggest there should be a webpage on similar activities somewhere on the web.

pixbyjohn

martinedwards wrote: »

I've googled and there seem to be folks doing this......

I have access to ATX supplies.....

anyone else had a go with this?

Convert an ATX Power Supply Into a Regular DC Power Supply
Link here>>>>>
http://www.instructables.com/id/Convert-an-ATX-Power-Supply-Into-a-Regular-DC-Powe/?ALLSTEPS

Capt'n Midnight

Just to be aware that a computer PSU can put out a lot of low frequency RF

also it's 12.1V so you won't be able to charge 12V lead acid batteries with it

that link was just a little scary.
most computer psu's I've opened have had sod all space to add the banana plug sockets without them rubbing against an internal wire

brownmini

I found another link just like the link already shown but
with 5 banana sockets on the side but the inside had a
little bit more room inside.

It's sort of a good idea on recycling the PSU from an old
PC especially if you're after a lots of Amps at 5Volts but
in amateur radio, that's not going to be too many people.

73

martinedwards

thanks folks, I DID have several websites showing the process, I should clarify my question...

anyone actually USE one in a radio setting?

Some sites say there is RF interference......

anyone have problems?

pixbyjohn

RF interference does occur from some computer PSUs. I have a few ATX modified power units and no interference at all in my shack from them. In the past I have had interference to HF reception from Computers PSU but changed unit and all good then. I was lucky to work in a place where I could exchange a psu and try it in my shack, otherwise it is a hit and miss exercise.

Capt'n Midnight

martinedwards wrote: »

thanks folks, I DID have several websites showing the process, I should clarify my question...

anyone actually USE one in a radio setting?

Some sites say there is RF interference......

anyone have problems?

With a small modification you could probably get one of them to transmit directly on 136 KHz LF band.

If you are operating in UHF probably won't be as big a worry.

martinedwards

ALL righty, just got three ATX units (thanks freecycle) so here goes!!