Tag: Power Supply Units

What is a Power Supply? Mean Well Power Supply Distributor of America

Power Supply for Personal Computing System - Mean Well Power Supply Distributor of America

A power supply is an electronic component that handles the task of supplying electricity to an electric load or an object that needs electricity to run. The primary function of a power supply is to convert one form of electricity to another, bridging the gap between electrical supply and electrical load. Because of this electrical conversion, power supplies are sometimes referred to as electric power converters. Power supplies come in varying shapes and sizes. Some power supplies are small and discrete, some are stand-alone, while others are built right into a product along with their electrical load (electronic device or tool). Built-in power supply examples are products such as personal computers, cell phones and other consumer electronics.

All power supplies must obtain the energy it supplies, for the load as well as any energy it consumes while performing the electrical conversion task. How your power supply obtains electricity depends on its design, electrical energy can come from many different sources. Some power supplies obtain electrical energy from electrical energy transmission systems, energy storage components like batteries, electromechanical systems, alternators as well as solar power sources. Some sources of electrical power even come from additional power supplies.

Personal Laptop Computer Power Supply

Another form of Power Supply or Electrical Power Converter

All power supplies have a power input that receives the energy from a source. They also have a power output which is designed to deliver the redefined or converted electricity to the load (Unit needing electricity). Most of our Mean Well Power Supplies are built with a power input and output that consist of electrical connectors or hardwired circuit connections. While some power supplies are designed with other I/O systems for external monitoring and control.

Here at Power277 we specialize in all types of Mean Well Power Supplies and electric power converters. We’re one of the largest distributors of Mean Well products in the country and are here to answer any questions you might have. If you’re in need of a power supply, we’re your source here in the States.

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What Are Power Supply Units?

Power Supply Unit

One question you might be hesitant to ask is, “What is a power supply?” Don’t be reluctant to ask. The answer is pretty simple, but it should be for us. At Power277, this is our job. For example, after hiring a CPA to file your taxes, you should feel confident that they understand the most recent tax codes to save you the most money on your taxes. The power supply to any device is a crucial piece because without it, the rest of the internal hardware can’t function.

The power supply unit is often abbreviated as PSU, and it is also known as a power pack or power converter. The power supply unit is used to convert the power provided from the outlet into usable power for the many parts of the device. It converts the alternating current (AC) into a continuous form of power that the device needs in order to run normally, called direct current (DC). It also regulates overheating by controlling voltage, which may change automatically or manually depending on the power supply.

Power output is the main factor in deciding which power supply unit to buy. Power supply units transform the 110 -115 or 220 -230 volt AC current from the wall and turn it into usable DC for the device. A power supply is so much more than just a single transformer. Modern power supply units have at least five separate voltage outputs, and usually more. Each different power output is called a “rail.” Common rails are the 12 volt rail, the 5 volt rail, and the 3.3 volt rail. These rails can be seen in different combinations depending on the need. Each rail is its own power source. The most important rail is the 12 volt rail. It accounts for 75% or more of the power output of the power supply unit.