Computer serves us for years, becomes a true friend of the family, and when it becomes obsolete or hopelessly breaks, it can be so pitiful to carry it to a landfill. But there are details that can last a long time in everyday life. This and
numerous coolers, and a processor heatsink, and even the case itself. But the most valuable thing is BP. A computer power supply, due to its decent power in a small size, is an ideal object for all sorts of upgrades. His transformation is not such a difficult task.
Transforming a computer power supply into a conventional voltage source
You need to decide what type of power supply your computer has, AT or ATX. As a rule, this is indicated on the case. Switching power supplies only work under load. But the device of the ATX type power supply allows you to artificially imitate it by shorting the green and black wires. So, by connecting the load (for AT) or closing the necessary outputs (for ATX), you can start the fan. The output appears 5 and 12 volts. The maximum output current depends on the power of the PSU. At 200 W, at a five-volt output, the current can reach about 20A, at 12V - about 8A. So without extra costs, you can use a good power source with good output characteristics.
Transforming a computer power supply into a regulated voltage source
It is quite convenient to have such a PSU at home or at work. Modifying a building block is easy. It is necessary to replace several resistances and unsolder the inductor. In this case, the voltage can be adjusted from 0 to 20 volts. Naturally, the currents will remain in their original proportions. If you are satisfied with the maximum voltage of 12V, it is enough to install a thyristor voltage regulator at its output. The controller circuit is very simple. At the same time, it will help to avoid interference with the inside of the computer unit.
Transforming a computer power supply into a car charger
The principle is not much different from a regulated power supply. It is only desirable to change the Schottky diodes to more powerful ones. A charger from a computer power supply has a number of advantages and disadvantages. The advantages are primarily small dimensions and light weight. Transformer memory is much heavier and more inconvenient to use. The disadvantages are also significant: criticality to short circuits and polarity reversal.
Of course, this criticality is also observed in transformer devices, but when the pulse unit fails, alternating current with a voltage of 220V tends to the battery. It is terrible to imagine the consequences of this for all devices and people nearby. Application inpower supply protection solves this problem.
Before using such a charger, take seriously the manufacture of the protection circuit. Moreover, there are a large number of their varieties.
So, do not rush to throw away spare parts from the old device. Reworking the computer power supply will give it a second life. When working with a PSU, remember that its board is constantly energized with 220V, and this is a mortal threat. Observe personal safety rules when working with electric shock.
