Project Description
This is a very easy to build
power supply that is based on LM338 5A adjustable voltage regulator. I
am using the supply for a long time, have no problem yet. Only current
adjust is missing but I overcome this situation by using an LCD panel
ampermeter.
There is no PCB for the circuit. I took a 3x16
copper plate and strip the unused areas by a knife. If you want you can
use analog meters instead of LCD panels.
Notes
Use thick wires for connections.When connecting the LM338 to the
heatsink use thermal paste. Use external supplies for LCD panels. They
can be 9V batteries. The panels I use draws 1mA current and the
batteries last sufficiently long time. If you have small transformers
which can supply regulated 9V, you can use them. You need separate
transformers for each panel!The transformer should be 100 Watt but if
you don't need high current you can try transformers that you already
have. (I can draw 6A from 100Watt transformer.)If you have multi
winding transformer you can use the diode connections shown in
schematic. Diodes must be 10-15 A. Be careful while connecting LM338.
Don't put it inverse.Output of your transformer mustn't exceed 25V AC.
