How to choose quality clearance, and reliable power module manufacturers?
Home - Blog - common problem - How to Build a 120 Volt AC Power Supply for 3 Volt DC Output

How to Build a 120 Volt AC Power Supply for 3 Volt DC Output

Author: ZYG Power Module Time: 2023-4-20

If you looking to power a small device that requires 3 volts of DC power, you may be wondering how to build a suitable power supply. One option is to build your own 120 volt AC power supply and use a voltage regulator to step down the voltage to 3 volts. Here how to do it:

Materials:

– Step-down transformer (120V AC to 12V AC)

– Bridge rectifier

– Capacitor

– Voltage regulator (LM317)

– Heat sink

– Resistors

– Potentiometer

– LED

– 3 volt DC load

– Soldering iron and solder

– Multimeter

Step 1: Choose a transformer

The first step is to choose a step-down transformer that converts the 120V AC input to 12V AC output. Make sure the transformer is rated for the amount of power you need (in watts) and that it has the correct output voltage.

Step 2: Rectify the AC voltage

Next, you need to rectify the AC voltage using a bridge rectifier. This will convert the AC voltage to a pulsating DC voltage.

Step 3: Smooth out the DC voltage

To smooth out the pulsating DC voltage, you need to connect a capacitor across the rectified output. This will help to stabilize the voltage and reduce ripple.

Step 4: Regulate the voltage

Now it time to regulate the voltage to a steady 3 volts using an LM317 voltage regulator. This can be achieved by connecting a resistor and a potentiometer to the voltage regulator, which will allow you to adjust the output voltage to 3 volts.

 

 

 

Step 5: Add a heat sink

The LM317 voltage regulator can get quite hot, so it important to add a heat sink to dissipate the heat. You can attach the heat sink to the voltage regulator using thermal paste or adhesive.

Step 6: Test the circuit

Before connecting your load, it important to test the circuit using a multimeter to ensure that the output voltage is stable and accurate. Adjust the potentiometer until the output voltage is exactly 3 volts.

Step 7: Connect the load

Finally, you can connect your 3 volt DC load to the output of the voltage regulator. You may also want to add an LED to indicate when the circuit is powered on.

By following these steps, you can build a 120 volt AC power supply that provides a stable 3 volt DC output for your small devices. Make sure to follow safety guidelines when working with high voltage circuits, and always test your circuit before connecting your load.

relevant information

  • 2023-7-17

    China AC-DC Power Supply wholesale: Ensuring Reliable and Efficient Electrical Energy Conversion

    Introduction: In today's modern world, the demand for electrical energy is ever-increasing. From powering our homes to fueling industries, electricity plays a crucial role in our daily lives. However, the electricity generated and transmitted is in the form of alternating current (AC), whereas most devices require direct current (DC) to operate. This necessitates the need for AC-DC power supplies, which convert AC to DC, ensuring reliable and efficient electrical energy conversion. In this article, we will explore the importance of AC-DC power supplies and their role in meeting our energy requirements. Understanding AC and DC: To comprehend the significance of AC-DC power supplies, one must first understand the difference between AC and DC. Alternating current (AC) is the type of...

    View details
  • 2023-11-17

    Introduction to Modular PC Power Supply: A Versatile Solution for Enhanced Performance and Efficiency

    In the world of computer hardware, power supply units (PSUs) play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of a PC. As technologies advance and computer components become more powerful, the demand for efficient and reliable power supplies has also increased. One solution that is gaining popularity among PC users is modular power supplies. A modular power supply is a type of PSU that allows users to connect and disconnect cables as needed. Unlike traditional power supplies, which come with a fixed set of cables, modular power supplies provide flexibility and customization options. This means that users can choose to connect only the cables they need, reducing cable clutter inside the PC case and improving airflow. One of the...

    View details
  • 2023-6-18

    Car Outlet Converter: Convert Your Vehicle’s Power Outlet for Multiple Electronic Devices

    In today's modern world, we are surrounded by a plethora of electronic devices that make our lives easier and more convenient. However, with so many electronic devices, it can be difficult to keep them all charged. This is especially true while on the go, such as while traveling or commuting in your vehicle. Fortunately, there is a solution to this problem: a car outlet converter. A car outlet converter is a device that allows you to convert your vehicle's power outlet into a multiple-port charging station for all of your electronic devices. This means that you can charge your phone, tablet, laptop, GPS, and other devices all at the same time while on the go. This is incredibly convenient and...

    View details
  • 2023-4-21

    Building a 120 Volt AC Power Supply for 3 Volts DC

    In this guide, we will be building a 120-volt AC power supply that can provide 3 volts DC output. This power supply will be useful for a variety of electronic projects that require a low voltage DC power source. To begin, we will need the following materials: - Transformer: A transformer is a device that converts high voltage AC power to low voltage AC power. In this case, we will need a transformer that can convert 120V AC to 6V AC. - Bridge rectifier: A bridge rectifier is a circuit that converts AC power to DC power. We will be using a bridge rectifier that can handle at least 1 ampere of current. - Capacitor: A capacitor is an electronic...

    View details
  • 2024-4-27

    Modular PC Power Supply: Stable and Efficient Power Protection

    In the pursuit of ultimate computer performance, stable and efficient power supply has become a key factor to ensure the stable operation of computers. Modular PC Power Supply, with its modular design and excellent power performance, provides strong power protection for computers. It not only meets the needs of high-end gaming PCs, graphics and design workstations and other high-duty scenarios, but also plays an important role in critical areas such as servers and data centres. In this article, we will discuss the stable and efficient characteristics of Modular PC Power Supply, as well as its advantages and value in different application scenarios.   Stable Power Backup for High-End Gaming PCs High-end gaming computers have harsh demands on power, especially in...

    View details
  • 2022-10-11

    Get the Best AC-DC Converter Manufacturer for Your Product

    Looking for a reliable AC-DC converter manufacturer? One stop shop is your best choice! In our factory, we offer a wide range of products to meet your needs, from small to large. What is an AC-DC converter? An AC-DC converter is a device used to convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). This is important because most devices require DC power to operate. There are many different types of AC-DC converters, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Some common types of AC-DC converters include transformers, switching converters, and linear converters. What are the different types of AC-DC converters? There are many different types of AC-DC converters. The most common one is a buck converter. A buck converter is...

    View details

6000+ options, one-stop power supplies solutions