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16 V AC to 12 V DC power converter schematics

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  • Member since
    February 2002
  • From: Reading, PA
  • 30,002 posts
Posted by rrinker on Sunday, May 1, 2011 1:33 PM

 Here's the deal. Parts are cheaper at a supplier like Mouser, but the shippign will kill you if you need just one such circuit.(at least Mouser has no surcharge on small orders liek Digi-Key, which is why I always use Mouser). Radio Shak actually would have the needed parts, but they cost more. For the parts to build one circuit, it will probably come out equally.

But for less then the parts needed to get a regualted 12 volts from the AC output on a power pack, you can buy a 12V DC wall-wart power supply. Or might even have one from some discarded or broken electronic device. - ask friends and neighbors too. While building a rectifier and regulator circuit might actually teach you something, it is easier and cheaper to just get a 12V power supply and use that.

                       --Randy

 


Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's

 

Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Pennsylvania
  • 709 posts
Posted by nedthomas on Sunday, May 1, 2011 11:31 AM
  • Member since
    July 2003
  • From: Sierra Vista, Arizona
  • 13,757 posts
Posted by cacole on Sunday, May 1, 2011 9:53 AM

I use computer power supplies that have outputs of both 12 and 5 Volts.  The 5 Volt outputs are good for powering LEDs and trackside signals, and the 12 Volt outputs can drive a Tortoise switch motor. 

  • Member since
    January 2008
  • From: Central Georgia
  • 921 posts
Posted by Johnnny_reb on Saturday, April 30, 2011 11:54 PM

Glen have you ever thought about using an old computer power supply for your accessory power needs? A new computer power supply can be had for under $20 and with a little work it can supply all of the accessory power you need. I just so happen to had do have done just a conversion.  Hobby Power Supply

Johnnny_reb Once a word is spoken it can not be unspoken!

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  • Member since
    May 2008
  • 4,612 posts
Posted by Hamltnblue on Saturday, April 30, 2011 11:18 PM

Welcome to the forums Welcome

You're probably asking a lot of that power supply. The accessory out probably doesn't have much capacity.

I would suggest you get a separate supply for the signaling system.  Radio Shack carries them.

Springfield PA

  • Member since
    April 2011
  • 2 posts
16 V AC to 12 V DC power converter schematics
Posted by GlenLes on Saturday, April 30, 2011 10:18 PM

I am looking for schematics to convert 16 V AC from my Accessory output on my DC power supply to use for 12 V DC supply for track detector, track indicator, and signal systems use. Thanks, glenn

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