linear or switch mode power supply ?

[Tyson]

Need a 240vAC to 12vDC PSU for my 12v chargers which type of PSU works best with RC chargers, I have a choice of either a 15A linear or 15A switch mode.

Any ideas ????

Cheers

[Dagger Thrasher]

Switch mode, without a question. Much, MUCH more efficient and probably more reliable too, as long as it's decent quality. What particular PSUs are you looking at?

[Tyson]

Maplins have a few different type's and current ratings.
I currently hook up my Pro Peak comp elite charger to a 5A big no brand at the moment and my charger keeps cutting out.
Though of running my Bantam BC6 off the same PSU when i get it so thats why 15A seemed a resonable rating.

Thanks for your help dagger

[Chequered Flag Racing]

1. try ebay, search psu, switch mode etc

2. convert pc psu to do the job, see here

3. see it done on the tube here (says LiPo but it's the same result)

[Dagger Thrasher]

No prob, Tyson.

Don't bother with the Maplin supplies; they're ok for what they are, but they're old designs and have low outputs for their large size. Even their biggest one is only rated to 7A constant, which isn't enough if you're going to be doing any serious charging. They're also kinda expensive. Pro-Peak do a fantastic 20A 13.8V supply for about £40 (Modelsport and other places sell them), and a twin-output version for a bit more. They also have a much more compact 8.5A supply for about £25. The LRP/Nosram supplies are nice and small, but overpriced IMO.

Alternatively, if you're good with electronics, then you could always try converting any spare computer PSUs you have lying around as CFR said. Be careful though, and do your homework before you do it; it's potentially dangerous if you're careless.

Do you have a link to the 15A PSU you're talking about? 15A should be plenty of capacity, as long as it can out put clean, stable voltage when under load.

[Tyson]

I think a call to modelsport is the answer, didnt know the RC PSU's were that cheap some of the Maplins PSU's are twice the price you mentioned....

Thanks for you input....