Circuit Desktop PC Linear Supply
Useful for electronics hobbyists, this linear workbench desktop
power supply circuit converts a high input voltage (12V) from the SMPS of a PC into low output voltage (1.25 to 9 volts).
An adjustable three-pin voltage regulator chip LM317T (IC1) is used here to provide the required voltages. The LM317T regulator, in TO-220 pack, can handle current of up to 1 amp in practice.
The diagram shows the
circuit of the desktop power supply. Regulator IC LM317T is arranged in its standard application. Diode D1 guards against polarity reversal and capacitor C1 is an additional buffer.
The green LED (LED1) indicates the status of the power input. Diode D2 prevents the output voltage from rising above the input voltage when a capacitive or inductive load is connected at the output. Similarly, capacitor C3 suppresses any residual ripple.
The circuit can be wired on a common PCB. After fabrication, enclose the circuit in a metallic cover. Then open the cabinet of your PC and connect the input line of the gadget to a free (hanging) four-pin drive power connector of the SMPS carefully.