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Power·Dec 29, 2017

Adjustable Bench Power Supply From an Old PC PSU

A recycled ATX power supply converted into a bench supply with an LM317 adjustable output and fixed 12 V rail.

Adjustable Bench Power Supply From an Old PC PSU

Overview

This project turns an unused computer power supply into a practical bench power source for testing electronics. The build keeps the ATX supply as the high-current 12 V source, adds a switched enable line, indicator LED, DC jack, voltmeter, and an LM317 regulator stage for adjustable output.

Specifications

RoleDesigner and builder
MicrocontrollerLM317 regulator
ModulesATX power supplyMini voltmeterSwitchDC connector
Tech tagsATX PSULM317Bench SupplyElectronics

Schematics

LM317 regulation circuit
Adjustable voltage regulation circuit

Project photos

Adjustable bench power supply cover
Finished bench power supply build
Bench supply enclosure marking
Marking and cutting the enclosure
Bench supply assembly
Final assembly before closing

Implementation details

Power

The ATX yellow wire provides the 12 V feed, the green wire is tied through a switch to ground to start the supply, and the LM317 stage creates the adjustable rail.

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