The computer has been serving us for years, it becomes a true friend of the family, and when it becomes obsolete or hopelessly breaks down, it is so unfortunate to carry it to a landfill. But there are details that can serve for a long time in everyday life. This and
numerous coolers, and a processor heatsink, and even the case itself. But the most valuable thing is BP.
The computer power supply, thanks to decent power with small dimensions, is an ideal object of all sorts of upgrades. Its transformation is not such a difficult task.
Converting a computer power supply to a conventional voltage source
You need to decide what type of power supply your computer, AT or ATX is. As a rule, this is indicated on the body. Pulse PSUs operate only under load. But the device of the ATX type power supply allows the closure of the green and black wires to artificially simulate it. So, by connecting the load (for AT) or by closing the necessary terminals (for ATX), you can start the fan. At the output appears 5 and 12 volts. The maximum output current depends on the power of the PSU. At 200 W, on a five-volt output, the current can reach about 20A, at 12V - about 8A. So without extra costs, you can use a good power source with good output characteristics.
Converting a computer power supply into an adjustable voltage source
Having such a power supply at home or at work is quite convenient. Changing a building block is easy. It is necessary to replace several resistances and unsolder the throttle. In this case, the voltage value can be adjusted from 0 to 20 volts. Naturally, the currents will remain in their original proportions. If you are satisfied with the maximum voltage of 12V, it is enough to install a thyristor voltage regulator at its output. The controller circuit is very simple. At the same time, it will help to avoid interference in the internal part of the computer unit.
Converting a computer power supply into a car charger
The principle is not much different from a regulated power source. It is only advisable to change the Schottky diodes to more powerful ones. The charger from the computer's PSU has several advantages and disadvantages. The pluses are primarily small dimensions and light weight. Transformer memory is much heavier and more inconvenient to use. The disadvantages are also significant: criticality to short circuits and polarity reversal.
Of course, this criticality is also observed in transformer devices, but when the pulse unit fails, alternating current with a voltage of 220V tends to the battery. It’s scary to imagine the consequences of this for all devices and nearby people. The use of protection in power supplies solves this problem.
Before using such a charger, take the protection circuit seriously. Moreover, there are a large number of their varieties.
So, do not rush to throw away parts from the old device. Alteration of the computer power supply will give him a second life. When working with the PSU, remember that its board is constantly under voltage of 220V, and this is a deadly threat. Follow personal safety precautions when working with electric shocks.