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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the selection of voltage regulators for creating a dual polarity power supply that provides DC voltage ranging from -17V to +17V. Participants explore various approaches, components, and configurations suitable for this application.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests generating a "fake" ground at +17V and using a regulator capable of handling 0 to 35V, mentioning the LM317 as a potential option.
  • Another participant clarifies that two regulators are needed: one adjustable for 0 to 35V and another set to +17V.
  • A participant provides a specific device recommendation, mentioning Mitsubishi's dual tracking regulators and includes a link to a datasheet with circuit diagrams.
  • It is noted that high current outputs can be achieved by adding power transistors to the suggested configurations.
  • For individual regulators, the LM317 is proposed for the positive output and the LM337 for the negative output.
  • Links to additional resources on regulator circuits are shared for further exploration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying preferences for specific components and configurations, indicating that multiple competing views remain regarding the best approach for the dual polarity power supply.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the power supply design, such as the need for a transformer with specific voltage ratings and the grounding method, are mentioned but not fully resolved. The discussion does not clarify the exact specifications or limitations of the suggested components.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in designing dual polarity power supplies, electronics hobbyists, and those seeking practical solutions for voltage regulation in their projects may find this discussion beneficial.

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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