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Sensibly Powering DC Technology?

Posted by Cliff on from the do-away-with-the-wall-warts dept.

splatnet asks: "Having upgraded my PC to a Mac Mini all my IT kit is now DC. The Mini, my flatscreen, external USB HDD, USB DVD writer, JBL speakers, ADSL/Wireless Router. I have practically the same amount of space taken up for transformers as I do computer equipment! Has anyone found/invented a way to power multiple DC devices (all with slightly different power requirements)? I'm thinking in terms of space/convenience/running costs etc." It would be neat if there was a DC power source that could be tuned to a specific voltage, as well as modular plugs to fit your various devices. Is there anything out there that comes close?

3 of 90 comments (clear)

  1. Dupe by Game+Genie · · Score: 3, Insightful

    This has been discussed before. That being said, good luck. Having read the last discussion, I think you'll need it.

  2. Yes by infernalC · · Score: 3, Insightful

    Your typical PC AT power supply comes very close. It outputs 12V and 5V DC (most of what you need) and can handle a lot of current if it isn't a cheapo. Go to Radio Shack, get some plugs and some solder and have fun.

  3. You're asking for Trouble! by ka9dgx · · Score: 4, Insightful
    You've got all sorts of equipment, with all sorts of hidden assumptions about what ground means. In the best case scenario, you actually have no weird assumptions, or nasty surges when devices get turned on, and it all works.

    I've learned, the hard way, that the coaxial power plugs used on most devices these days will temporarily SHORT when you plug them it, which means, at a minimum, a separate current limited regulator for each plug.

    Accept the things you cannot change, this is one of them.

    --Mike--