Can power supplies/adapters be used to clean up dirty generator power?

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Portable generators often produce unstable power, which can be harmful to sensitive electronics. Using AC to DC power supplies can mitigate some issues, as reputable brands are designed to handle varying input quality. However, if the generator exhibits significant voltage or frequency fluctuations, it may be more effective to address the generator itself rather than rely solely on power supplies. Many users report that their devices, including laptops, have functioned well on generator power without damage. Ultimately, while concerns about generator power quality exist, many electronics are built to withstand such conditions.
  • #61
What if I am plugged into a battery backup/surge protector? Will this clean up the frequency.
 
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  • #62
Welcome to PF.

mcblatz said:
What if I am plugged into a battery backup/surge protector? Will this clean up the frequency.
A UPS unit will contain an inverter to convert the DC battery power to AC Mains power. The harmonic distortion (THD) rating will depend on the specs of the inverter. It's not a matter of cleaning up the 50/60 Hz frequency, it's a matter of how "clean" the AC Mains sine wave is (since it's being generated with switching magnetic circuits).

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_inverter
 

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