What is the Best Voltage Regulator for a Dual Polarity Power Supply?

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SUMMARY

The best voltage regulators for a dual polarity power supply generating -17V to +17V are the LM317 and LM337, which can be used for positive and negative outputs, respectively. For a more robust solution, consider using a dual tracking regulator such as the Mitsubishi M5230L, which is designed for this application. It is essential to use a transformer that provides 30V center-tapped and a bridge rectifier to achieve the desired output after filtering. Additionally, high current outputs can be enhanced by incorporating power transistors into the circuit.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of dual polarity power supply design
  • Familiarity with LM317 and LM337 voltage regulators
  • Knowledge of transformer specifications and bridge rectifiers
  • Basic electronics concepts including filtering and circuit diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Mitsubishi M5230L dual tracking regulator and its applications
  • Learn about transformer selection for dual polarity power supplies
  • Explore circuit diagrams for voltage regulator configurations
  • Investigate the use of power transistors for high current outputs
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists designing power supplies, and engineers working on dual polarity voltage regulation systems will benefit from this discussion.

elecz
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I want to make a power supply which gives DC voltage from -17V to +17 volt, i.e of both polarities. Someone please tell me which voltage regulator is easiest and most appropiate to use? Thankyou!
 
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Easiest would be to generate a "fake" ground at +17V and then find a regulator that can do 0 to 35V. What I mean by that is that you should keep the power supply isolated from ground and then connect the case ground to the +17V output of your power supply.
Search digikey.com (US) or farnell.com (Europe) for a 35V capable regulator.
An LM317 for instance would give you -15.8 to +17V connected that way. Close but not quite.
 
I was a bit unclear ... you will need two regulators: one adjustable 0 to 35V and one fixed or adjustable set to +17V.
 
Ok thankx.. But I want to know exact device name. e.g LIM117, I want to know more...
 
Mitsubishi have dual tracking regulators like this:

http://monopoly.highspies.com/pdf/m5230l.pdf

There are circuit diagrams in that data sheet. Note that high current outputs can be obtained by adding power transistors.

You would need a transformer that gives 30 volts centre tapped. If you ground the centre tap and use a bridge rectifier, this will give +/- 21 volts after filtering.



If you preferred to get individual regulators, you could use the LM317 for the positive output and a LM337 for the negative output.

There are lots of regulator circuits here:
http://www.hobbyprojects.com/V/voltage_regulators.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thanks a lot! You have solved my big problem...
 

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