[sdiy] Testing a power supply

[Tom Bugs]

Thanks Magnus!
I wondered at first what TAOE was (google searched turned up some weird 
possibilities) before realizing that I ought to finally get myself a 
copy (Art of Electronics - ah!)

Input Voltage - yes, I have a variac though need to change the output 
connections before use.

That's some good pointers -- thanks


Magnus Danielson wrote:
> Tom Bugs skrev:
>> Hiya,
>>
>> I just wondered whether anyone can recommend a tutorial or similar to 
>> cover thorough testing of a linear PSU (based on LM317 / LM337)
>> - basically, putting it through its paces and recording performance 
>> values.
>>
>> I know how to hook up a dummy load using power resistors, but can't 
>> think of much beyond that other than temperature -- what should I be 
>> focusing on?
>>
>> Any help much appreciated!
>
> Variation of input voltage (usually power line voltage), check min, 
> mean and max values.
> Variation of load - check stability! (lack of oscillation)
> Check over-current limitation and recovery from overcurrent (fuse or 
> ducking, which ever is used).
>
> A peculiar issue may be that certain impedances may cause it to 
> oscillate unless due care is taken. Measuring source impedance can be 
> interesting. As you load/unload the regulator, check for oscillations 
> on scope.
>
> Read up on power supplies in TAOE and you will realize what types of 
> tests you would like to do.
>
> Cheers,
> Magnus
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