A not too iffy bench power supply brand - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 10:44:32 am
content: Anyone know of decent lab bench power supplies that don't cost too much? I am looking for 5 amps max and at least up to like 16vLooking to pay around £170 ish or a little more if the difference in cost will make a huge bonus? UK centric prices pleaseI understand I could use other types of power supplies but I want this for arduino development and other projects. I will also be testing fans and lights etc for the campervan with it before I buy my batteries.I looked at Siglent but their 5amp single channel is like £270 and to be honest the EEVBlog review of the three channel didn't seem the best (wobbly sockets).

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 11:39:54 am
content: Have a look at the Manson switch mode supply.Slightly above your budget.https://www.electrocom-uk.com/store/prod_6402571-MANSON-SSP9080-laboratory-power-supply-036V-DC-5-amp.html

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 03:43:46 pm
content: That is an odd skinny looking thing! Would it being a Switch Mode power supply cause me any grief do you think?I was looking at this:https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DC-Linear-Bench-Power-Supply-Variable-Output-0-100V-0-3A-0-50V-0-6A-5V-fixed/322572281731?hash=item4b1ace6783:g:fWIAAOSw3xJVVKI2

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 03:51:28 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on April 29, 2020, 03:43:46 pmWhat kind of work do you expect to do? Is many cases switching power supplies aren't much of an issue. Computers use them extensively, after all. In some cases the noise can cause some issues. How about one of those Korad jobbies? They're pretty decent and affordable. They initially had some issues, but those seem to have been resolved. They have multiple variants including single channel jobs. Some of their other models are fairly well regarded too, at least for their price.https://uk.farnell.com/tenma/72-10495/power-supply-2ch-30v-5a-adjustable/dp/2251947

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 04:00:08 pm
content: I want to buy one to power some 12v appliances to test they work before I buy my batteries & solar panels for my campervan. Otherwise it will be for arduino and developing some circuits for the campervan (want to make some seatbelt warning / presence alarm for the rock and roll bed in the back of the van).

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 04:04:15 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on April 29, 2020, 04:00:08 pmIt doesn't sound like a switcher should present much of a problem, but I think your budgets stretches to a decent linear supply like I linked in my previous post.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 04:09:04 pm
content: A second channel wouldn't hurt either. I have an under voltage protection circuits I would like to test with it.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 04:09:44 pm
content: Quote from: blueskull on April 29, 2020, 04:07:17 pmWhy insist on a switcher when better options are available? BK makes decent stuff, but it's rarely the best bang for your buck. The BK 9110 is way over the budget and still a switcher.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 04:25:06 pm
content: Quote from: blueskull on April 29, 2020, 04:18:53 pmEven if performance would be on par with a linear supply it's over budget and single channel. It doesn't appear to be a bad power supply but I'm not sure it's the best option if it's your first and only or care about budget.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 04:38:29 pm
content: I wouldnt say my first and only care is budget. More that I am getting a decent product for my money. But if I go spend 300 on power supply the police will find me in a shallow grave.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 04:41:16 pm
content: But I would feel worse if I went and bought something for 60 100 or 150 that didn't suit my needs.

author: jpb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 05:17:32 pm
content: With power supplies, especially linear ones, I'd recommend going second hand but getting a good quality one. In the UK TTi are pretty good if a little bulky. HP/Agilent/Keysight ones would probably be beyond your budget even second hand unless they were old. A make such as Elektro-Automatik (EA) don't have quite such good specs but they are robust and can go up to large currents.An example is:https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/EA-PS-2042-10B-Bench-Power-Supply/124021864108though that one doesn't have fine as well as course adjustment and is rather pricey - I got a 5Amp one very recently from the 3 series with Course and Fine for £80.On the TTi front, some company seems to be auctioning off quite a few e.g.https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/POWER-SUPPLY-35V-10A-TTi-TSX3510-230V-UK-EURO-PLUG/174256620682though some are 115V, it may be worth putting in a lowish bid.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 06:59:33 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on April 29, 2020, 03:51:28 pmAre tenma the same as korad? I saw the dual power supply for around 170ish inc vat but was worried about how decent it would be.Anyone have the dual tenma and is it any good?

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 07:40:38 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on April 29, 2020, 06:59:33 pmThey're the same devices. Tenma is the "house brand" of Farnell. Korad is the more generic branding. Dave reviewed an early unit and found some issues, but liked it. These issues have since been fixed and Dave sold them in his shop for quite a while. I own one too and I like its utilitarian nature. It's a little slower to get up to the set voltage than my more expensive power supply but nothing too unreasonable. It does the job without hassle. I think I prefer it over the more expensive unit.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 07:54:23 pm
content: What one do you own? Do you have any of the duals?I saw the tripple 72-2640 is not much more expensive than the dual and it says it can remote sense but I can't see any terminals for that which is weird.

author: John B
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 11:02:31 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on April 29, 2020, 03:43:46 pmIt looks like it might be a rebranded QJE brand unit. I nearly purchased one locally also rebranded, but reading some opinions here on the forum turned me off them. Have a search for jaycar or powertech power supply, something like that. I think there was voltage overshoot problems and immediate failures.

author: wizard69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 11:06:29 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on April 29, 2020, 04:00:08 pmHonestly if this was one of my goals I'd buy an industrial 12 VDC fixed voltage protected supply. These are normally for use inside electrical control panels so that might be an issue. I'd probably look for at least 10 amps too but that might be harder too find. The other option is to look for ham radio shops and 12 VDC battery eliminators (a fancy way to say a 13.8 VDC power supply). for the most part these are not variable however they are rugged and would be better suited for testing a wide array of high current 12 VDC devices. I think the UK go to would be RS components sort of like our Newark Electronics. These guys:http://www.westmountainradio.com/dc_power.phphave examples of one such ham radio oriented supply and a bunch of other stuff to work with it. For a campervan you may have interest in some of the other stuff to make up an off grid electronics workstation.This of course will not solve your variable voltage nor your arduino power problems but with a 12 VDC source you can easily make up simple power supplies, both fixed and variable, to solve any issue there. By the way those skinny power supplies are ideal on the bench because eventually we end up having one or more on the bench and they end up taking up less room than the more horizontal solutions. So again thinking an on the road solution I wouldn't knock the skinny supplies. In fact compact needs to be the number one consideration followed quickly by low power usage.

author: wizard69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2020, 11:33:07 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on April 29, 2020, 04:38:29 pmWell if that is the case you are looking at this all wrong!!!! Assuming the one that wants to put you in the grave is all in on the camper van, you need to go about buying stuff to outfit that van and not your work bench.So what you do here is spend your good money on the campers 12 VDC system!!!! Don't let on that you are making sure the stuff you buy can power your electronics work bench needs. In part that means making sure that your campers DC supply can be easily reached from where you are likely to be doing the electronics. Then for the arduino fabricate or buy a 12 VDC to 5 volt (or whatever) adapter and completely forget about the bench supply on the road. Done right you might even fix up a USB power port or two for the one that wants to put you 6 feet under. The idea here is to make her feel as the money spent on the electrical system is for her benefit not yours!!!!!! If you look around you might even find some preconfigured cigarette lighter port boards to give you easy 12 VDC plug ins.Beyond that there is the practical issue of trying to shuttle electronic instrumentation around. If it isn't designed for regular transportation duties it will not last. I think it is fair to say most benchtop instrumentation simply isn't hat rugged for field use. Then you have the issue of space, you might not think a bench power supply is big but put it inside a camper van and it becomes huge. It is even larger if the significant other can see it and has no place to put it. The avenue to peace is making sure the other has nothing firm to complain about!!! Frankly you would likely find frustration with anything not absolutely needed too, so look at this as a way to head off your own sense of waste. If you make up a power supply yourself, say for the Arduino board, it needs to be small, like Altoids tin small.Before going too far you might want to look into how people living off the grid or the various approaches used in travel campers and vans, handle the issue of power. There are a lot of neat solutions out there involving battery power, solar panels and other tech.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 12:09:30 am
content: Quote from: wizard69 on April 29, 2020, 11:33:07 pmAh I think you missed the aim a little here. The power supply I am looking for is not for permanent powering of the campervan electronics. I am more looking to test the 12volt appliances to make sure they don't need to be returned to the shop before their return period passes.Things i need to test are the Maxxfan Deluxe vent fan, Flashy lights (left over from when it was a works van) and I also really really really need to run the Webasto diesel heater because it has not been run since November! (apparently you should run a diesel heater every month to keep all the parts moving.This is all because I don't want to buy the batteries yet since who knows when this COVID stuff will end

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 12:12:41 am
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on April 29, 2020, 07:40:38 pmWeird, I don't see any Korad for sale in the UK on ebay lol. Might have to go for the Tenma one instead.

author: AVGresponding
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 01:29:16 pm
content: How about going for a manufacturer refurbished British brand?https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/testequipmentsales/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 01:33:08 pm
content: ^^^^^ correct answer.TSX3510P (35V 10A) just sold for the starting price of £149. Not to me. I don't need it

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 03:12:23 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on April 29, 2020, 07:54:23 pmI own a two channel job. There are various similar models. The important differentiators seem to be amount of channels, safety or banana lead sockets, amount of current it can supply and whether the unit can be computer controlled or not. I have no experience with the 72-2640 but reviews seem favourable. Snagging a TTi for an acceptable amount would not be a bad idea either. I think any of those options will serve you just fine.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 05:03:51 pm
content: + 1 for Korad KA3005PIf you need the two channel version go for that, or start with one of these and expand as needed to a second unit.https://www.amazon.com/KORAD-KA3005P-Programmable-Precision-Adjustable/dp/B0085QLNFM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QYTWH4M8T2OT&dchild=1&keywords=korad+ka3005p&qid=1588261735&sprefix=korad+%2Caps%2C158&sr=8-1If this is available in your geography I'd highly recommend it.After assembling a bench with scopes, signal generators, a DC load, counters, a spectrum analyzer, and some other test equipment, this Korad power supply is possibly my most used piece of equipment and it's one of the least expensive which has made it a great value. After more than 5 years it's been completely reliable (knock on wood). It's reasonably accurate (to ~millivolts and ~milliamps) and if you ever need to dial it in better/different there is a calibration routine that works well.The few times I've measured ripple it's been within it's specs.https://www.sra-shops.com/pub/media/docs/srasolder/datasheet/tds-ka-series.pdf(SRA is a very good supplier if they ship to your area.)Overall this power supply is easy and enjoyable to use. It has an output on/off switch (in addition to the AC on/off switch) and in various tests I have found that over and under shoot for turn on and turn off is what I'd call reasonable. If you have DUTs that are worth many hundreds or thousands of dollars you can do better but for most enthusiast projects this will perform well.There were some early problems (maybe 7 years ago?) but those have long been sorted so if you get one that doesn't perform as expected you should be able to return it for a proper unit if you buy from a good supplier.You can spend more on a linear power supply and for about 2-3x you can get some nice additional user interface features but if what you want to do is quickly, easily, dependably set voltage (up to 30V) and current (up to 5A), have OV and OC protection, and see what voltage and current the unit is actually supplying, then this will get the job done well while taking up a pretty small footprint on your desk and going easy on your wallet. If you see a linear PS that you like better for more $ go for it but for less $ it will be hard to beat the Korad when you consider price, performance, ease of use, reliability, and footprint.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 05:07:00 pm
content: Just tripped across this HANMATEK HM305 switching power supply:https://www.amazon.com/HANMATEK-Programmable-Variable-Regulated-Interface/dp/B07SS77N7KIf you can accept a switching power supply with some extra ripple this looks like a very good value. Pretty happy user reviews and it has most of the entry features you might expect. It has one feature that would be nice to have on the Korad: displays watts (but with a bit of multiplication that can be easily determined). The footprint looks similar (or maybe a tad larger?) than the Korad but at half the price it could be attractive for some users and uses

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 07:39:59 pm
content: What would be an okay price for a used TTi CPX200?

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 07:40:48 pm
content: < £200 for a tidy one.Now is not the time to buy one TBH. There are quite a few bargains around usually. If you need an interim supply, may be worth buying a meanwell SMPS module from RS or somewhere that does the job and holding out.Bargains as in my PL330QMD linear (2x 30V @ 3A / 1x 60V 3A / 1x 30V 6A) cost me £125 but they fucked up the packaging terribly so refunded the entire amount and said keep it

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 08:11:46 pm
content: Hmmm that seller of the tti stuff only has 1 feedback. Think I'll skip it :/

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 08:15:34 pm
content: It appears to actually be TTi themselves who are selling it based on products and location. They're very reputable.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 08:43:10 pm
content: The testequipmentsales seller on eBay? What makes you think it is tti themselves? He only has one feedback and no address.Or are we talking about another seller.

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 08:48:34 pm
content: Location: Huntingdon.https://www.aimtti.com/-> check bottom of page.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2020, 10:35:16 pm
content: Quote from: bd139 on April 30, 2020, 08:48:34 pmAh, I can't afford that

author: coppice
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 12:41:36 am
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on April 29, 2020, 07:40:38 pmNo it isn't. Look around Asia, and you'll find Tenma branded stuff all over the place. I'm not sure if they make anything at all, or if they only act as a middle man. They certainly act as middle man for a lot of their products, like the Korad power supplies.

author: oPossum
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 03:22:32 am
content: Tenma was an MCM brand. MCM is now part of Farnell/Newark/Element14.QuoteFromhttp://www.tenma.com/

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 05:16:08 am
content: In the U.S. Tennma brand was sold, and probably owned by MCM Electronics. Years ago Tennma might have actually made stuff, but in recent times I don't think it was much more than a label. Newark/Farnell acquired MCM a few years ago. The last Newark catalog I received had an entire separate MCM section.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 06:20:23 am
content: Looks like Farnell sells Tenma in the UK.Single Output with computer interfacehttps://uk.farnell.com/tenma/72-2540/power-supply-1ch-30v-5a-prog/dp/2445412Dual Outputs without computer interfacehttps://uk.farnell.com/tenma/72-10495/power-supply-2ch-30v-5a-adjustable/dp/2251947

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 09:04:36 am
content: What are those types of connectors on the tenma called? I guess you have to buy wires to fit these as I can't see anywhere that says you get them in the box with it?

author: AVGresponding
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 09:19:05 am
content: Not sure which connectors you mean, but the front panel outputs are standard shrouded 4mm banana jacks, you can use normal 4mm banana plugs in them or shrouded.At the voltages you're working with, normal ones are fine.

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 10:27:21 am
content: If you buy the Korad/Tenma, buy it from CPC. They are cheaper even though it's the same companyhttps://cpc.farnell.com/tenma/72-2540/power-supply-1ch-30v-5a-prog/dp/IN07294https://cpc.farnell.com/tenma/72-10495/power-supply-2ch-30v-5a-adjustable/dp/IN06823

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 10:52:21 am
content: Quote from: Dwiea on May 01, 2020, 09:04:36 amThanks

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 11:56:02 am
content: Quote from: coppice on May 01, 2020, 12:41:36 amThe Tenma website says "© 2018 Tenma, a Premier Farnell Company".http://www.tenma.com/

author: coppice
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 12:17:03 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on May 01, 2020, 11:56:02 amIt looks like Farnell must have bought them at some point. That might explain why they are no longer as common as they used to be in Asian shops. In the 90s they were one of the commonest value for money brands in places like HK.

author: M0HZH
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 02:38:43 pm
content: Quite happy with the Tenma 72-10500 unit (dual 30V/3A linear). Has 5 memories per channel, can combine channels internally series or paralell, voltage is 4-digit accurate against the Fluke 8840A and the output is very clean. Not much more you could ask for what CPC is selling it for.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 02:58:24 pm
content: Did it come with any test leads?

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 03:10:32 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on May 01, 2020, 02:58:24 pmI wouldn't base your decision on whether test leads are included.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 05:06:50 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on May 01, 2020, 03:10:32 pm+1 for NOT basing your decision on whether (or what) test leads are included.While it’s possible that Korad now includes better test leads than what came with my unit years ago, and while they were potentially useable, the included Korad test leads were nothing to write home about. However, the Korad KA3005P power supply is such a good value that even if no leads are included it should not impact a purchase decision.Fwiw and to put it in perspective, before an electronics enthusiast becomes a full fledged TEA card carrying enthusiast he or she might might acquire as many test leads as oscilloscopes. If you search on this metric you find that 19 oscilloscopes is sometimes considered par.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 05:15:42 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on May 01, 2020, 03:10:32 pmI know but good to know if some do come with it. I was looking at a 'kit' from some company on CPC earlier but the Croc and spring J clip things were only going to go up to 3amps so I would nerd higher.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 05:20:23 pm
content: Quote from: Electro Fan on May 01, 2020, 05:06:50 pmOf course I won't base my decision on that. I've more or less decided to go with the tenma double from CPC.I just need to find what leads I need to buy with it. Probably crocodile and those funky spring J clip things. Although the ones with changeable ends are quite cool.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 09:28:55 pm
content: Something like these might get you started:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002JJU1Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1Tons of leads to choose from. As you go you will develop new needs and preferences.https://www.amazon.com/AST-Labs-Cable-Banana-inches/dp/B00WZPTKQI/ref=sr_1_24_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=banana+plug+micro+grabber&qid=1588364851&s=hi&sr=1-24-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExSERZUzJMN09SRVlEJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODk4MDc5TUxZTFNVQ0paWFQmZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDE5Njc3NTJXSUdZNzFSNFQ4U08md2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9idGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVlhttps://www.amazon.com/Proster-pl%C3%A1tano-Alligator-Seguridad-mult%C3%ADmetro/dp/B01NCLIFVG/ref=sr_1_23_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=banana+plug+micro+grabber&qid=1588364851&s=hi&sr=1-23-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExSERZUzJMN09SRVlEJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODk4MDc5TUxZTFNVQ0paWFQmZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDQxMzQ5NTIwNzVSNVRJUVpBWVYmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9idGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl- these look close but you probably don't want right angle banana plugs (they might get in the way of an adjacent terminal or the controls); I'd look for straight-in banana plugshttps://www.amazon.com/Extension-Connector-Silicone-Multimeter-Adapter/dp/B07NWZ71GH/ref=psdc_14244471_t1_B01MZ09L3Shttps://www.amazon.com/AST-Labs-Extension-SILICONE-Female/dp/B01MZ09L3S/ref=sr_1_11?dchild=1&keywords=straight%2Bbanana%2Bplug%2Balligator&qid=1588364999&s=hi&sr=1-11&th=1https://www.amazon.com/BP880-BNC-niquelado-apilamiento-122-Grado-Temperatura/dp/B000VRECB0/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?dchild=1&keywords=bnc+to+bana+plugs&qid=1588365189&s=hi&sr=1-1-fkmr1- this plus variously terminated BNC cables might come in handy laterCal Test makes a lot of varieties:https://www.caltestelectronics.com/kitsPomona too. You will find some minigrabber designs are more reliable than others:https://www.pomonaelectronics.com/products/test-clips/grabber-test-clipshttps://www.pomonaelectronics.com/products/test-clips/smd-mini-grabber-test-clip-patch-cords-or-clip-leadsBanana plugs come in unsheathed, fixed (non-retractable) sheath, and retractable sheath. For the Tenma power supply terminals it looks like they might do well/best with fixed sheath, but someone with that specific version of the Tenma power supply could tell you better. My Korad has jacks for standard unsheathed banana plugs.Further, sheathed (also referred to as shrouded) leads and also (and non-sheathed) banana plugs can be stackable, or non-stackable.https://www.muellerelectric.com/products/ai-000406-48-0https://www.digikey.com/catalog/en/partgroup/4911a-retractable-sheath-banana-plug-patch-cord/16856?utm_adgroup=Test%20%26%20Measurement&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Dynamic%20Search&utm_term=&utm_content=Test%20%26%20Measurement&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImqT4k8ST6QIV7v_jBx2qyQ0aEAAYASAAEgJ4_fD_BwEI think what you are probably looking for would be silicone leads (or PVC is probably ok) with your preference of alligators or grabbers on the DUT end and straight-in, fixed sheath banana plugs (probably don't need to be stackable). If you are really going to run 5A constant (I don't know how long the PS or you will like that, the fan will be fairly loud) you might want 14 AWG test leads but those might be harder to find with your preferred connectors. You might want up building your own test leads with the wire and connectors of your choice.Might be somewhat along the lines of what you are looking for:https://www.ebay.com/itm/Safety-Shrouded-Banana-Plug-to-Crocodile-Alligator-Clip-Multimeter-Test-Leads-/163753458249It comes down to learning the possibilities and then determining your preferences. To get started you can probably use whatever comes with the power supply or try something like the first link at the top. Happy test lead hunting.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 09:42:22 pm
content: Temna supplies are sold with both banana jacks and "safety" sockets. Make sure your banana leads match.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 10:18:40 pm
content: If the Tenma comes with leads Dwiea should be good to go at least for starters.Saw this in case it helps anyone/anything:https://info.muellerelectric.com/the-complete-guide-to-banana-plugsMr. Scram is a safety socket the same thing as a socket that accepts a shrouded banana plug, or something different? Thx

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 10:20:09 pm
content: Quote from: Electro Fan on May 01, 2020, 10:18:40 pmThat's some high grade Photoshop right there!

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 10:22:50 pm
content: Less high grade than Photoshop but maybe also informativehttps://www.caltestelectronics.com/product-guides/banana-plugs-101-how-do-banana-plugs-work

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 10:29:24 pm
content: Quote from: Electro Fan on May 01, 2020, 10:22:50 pmSorry, I was still editing my previous message. The ones sticking out on the left are regular banana sockets. The ones on the right are the safety sockets and will accept shrouded banana leads but no wires or spades.https://m0wut.com/2019/08/25/power-supply-hacking-part-1/

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 10:50:36 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on May 01, 2020, 10:29:24 pmNo worries and roger all that.If I understand, the PS on the right ("safety sockets") take fixed shrouded - and I'm guessing that's the preferred test leads plug type for the PS on the right.Presumably the PS on the right would also accept retractable shrouded (but maybe the shrouds would retract defeating the purpose) and it would also accept regular non-shrouded banana plugs but those would not provide the extra measure of safety?Since you have both, do you prefer the flexibility to use spades and wires with the left unit, or do you prefer the safety of the right unit?

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2020, 11:44:33 pm
content: Quote from: Electro Fan on May 01, 2020, 10:50:36 pmThat's not my picture but one I found. Anything over 50V is considered dangerous and I'm not going to tell you otherwise, but personally I'm not too worried by 60V. I feel the regular banana jacks are a bit more flexible for lower voltage work as they accept wires, spade and banana leads. If I'm honest the difference isn't huge and I'd happily use either on lower voltages. I also have higher voltage equipment and in that case I definitely appreciate having shrouded leads.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2020, 12:35:22 am
content: Personally I would have preferred the normal banana jacks but I guess I will survive with the safety ones

author: M0HZH
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2020, 09:26:02 am
content: Quote from: Dwiea on May 01, 2020, 02:58:24 pmI only got a power cord and a manual; no leads.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2020, 03:21:53 pm
content: Two lead candidates for safety socketsStraight-in, silicone, fixed-sheath, decent quality minigrabber:https://www.pomonaelectronics.com/products/dmm-test-leads-and-probes/minigrabber-test-clip-straight-sheathed-dmm-plugWith medium alligator:https://caltestelectronics.com/ctitem/106-shth-p-to-alligator/CT3803

author: jpb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2020, 03:44:40 pm
content: I find that mini-grabbers work better than crocodile clips (I have both), especially when powering connectors on boards - crocodile clips are a bit fat and difficult to make precise and secure connections with.One thing to watch out for is the maximum current ratings. The ones suggested above are 5 Amps which should be plenty, but I managed to melt one of my mini grabbers which I think were rated about 3A and I put a bit more through and the plastic melted and they were ruined (it was also a bit of a fire hazard!)The other thing to say is that normal banana plugs will go into shielded sockets - they just aren't shielded so only suitable for low/safe voltages.

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2020, 09:47:27 pm
content: If all my crocodile/alligator clips disappeared overnight, I wouldn't miss them a bit. I don't think I've used one in the last decade. The various size grabber types are my usual choice.

author: moore
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2020, 11:00:34 pm
content: Another vote for the Korad/Tenma. I have a few and they're champs. One I really abused by using it to drive a motor near the supply's power max for many hours and other than the fan bearing starting to crap out it's still ok.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2020, 12:52:58 pm
content: I also prefer grabbers. They're much more subtle than crocodile clips chewing up everything and generally needing more force.

author: Powernun
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2020, 05:27:03 pm
content: I'm in the same boat as Dwiea (in the UK).I had a look at the options and the Tenma 72-10495 seems like a good dealhttps://cpc.farnell.com/tenma/72-10495/power-supply-2ch-30v-5a-adjustable/dp/IN06823.After having a bit more research, for an extra £10 there is the Tenma 72-13310 which has 1 extra channel (fixed), better fan, better interface and it looks a little bit nicer (not that this matters much)https://cpc.farnell.com/tenma/72-13310/dc-power-supply-3ch-adj-fixed/dp/IN07981. Unfortunately though I can't find any reviews for it so not sure if it's on par with the 72-10495. Any reason not to go with this one instead?

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2020, 05:38:15 pm
content: Quote from: Powernun on May 03, 2020, 05:27:03 pmThe lack of any reviews would give me pause. The options mentioned are very widely known, used and tested.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2020, 11:20:45 pm
content: Quote from: Powernun on May 03, 2020, 05:27:03 pmThe second model (72-13310) claims over current protection but the first model (72-10495) claims over current protection and also OCP and OVP settings (there are two LEDs that show when you have exceeded the set V and I and two other LEDs that show as the PS toggles between Constant Current and Constant Voltage). For a simple user interface the first model is pretty nice and enjoyable to work with.The second model specifies dimensions of 146 x 220 x 375 vs the first model at 220 x 280 x 160 = ~20% less bench space.The second model appears to have one output control. The first mode has two output controls.The second model appears to be an older school design. The first model is also a somewhat old school design but maybe not as old school as the first.Another consideration is that the 72-13130 does not have a RS232 or USB port for computer control (there is a similar model 72-13330 that has the RS232 and USB ports). I don't know about the dual channel Tenma models but the single channel KA3005P version from Korad provided the RS232 port (but not USB) for about $10-$20 more than their KA3005D single channel version which has/had no RS232 port. The Korad computer control software that came with the KA3005P works and is somewhat basic but I haven't used it much.Based on what I see of these models I'd go with the the 72-10495, or if you need computer control I'd get get two of these:https://cpc.farnell.com/tenma/72-2540/power-supply-1ch-30v-5a-prog/dp/IN07294- these have both RS232 and USB portsI think the advantage of having a dual channel power supply will be in slightly easier use when you simply press a button to connect the channels together in series or parallel (vs cabling together two independent single channel supplies). Not sure how often you will do that since 30V and 5A should cover you for a lot of basic enthusiast projects - and you could do it if/when needed with cables and two separate supplies. And for separate use (as two independent power supplies) I don't think the dual will offer much advantage if any over two side by side independent power supplies, and if you ever want to move one power supply to another location the separate units will offer some added flexibility to power things at more distant locations on your bench or elsewhere. Either way, not a big consideration but if you go with two 72-2540 units you will have perhaps a bit more redundancy (in the event of a power supply failure) and you will get a RS232 + USB port on both channels. On the the other hand, it looks like one 72-10495 will save you about 40 Pounds over two 75-2540s (which I think is also reflected in the price difference between the 72-3130 vs the 72-3330 as the 330 has the ports for computer control).If it were me, I'd go with two 72-2540, or start with one 72-2540 and see what you learn, and go from there.Let us know what you wind up with - and what you think when you get set up.

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2020, 11:42:54 pm
content: Prioritize fire safety!

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 12:57:16 am
content: Quote from: cdev on May 03, 2020, 11:42:54 pm+1 for Safety First, for sure.Below are some videos on cabling power supplies. (A challenge with the Internet is of course to know what info you can rely on.)One takeaway from these videos might be that there is a reason to consider dual power supplies with button control (vs. cabling) but I thinkthe larger point is to know what you are doing. I think for a lot of "beginners" a second power supply is to have the flexibility to power a second circuit or DUT (vs powering a negative rail or vs combining to create more voltage or current). In any event, Safety First.Bench Power Supply Auto Series/Parallel connections, Keysight E36300 SeriesENGR 313 - Connecting Multiple Power SuppliesHow to Get Positive & Negative Voltage Outputs from DC Power SuppliesNegative and Positive Voltage From A Dual Power Supply#233: Back to Basics: How to use the 3 terminals of a lab power supply | split supply (by W2AEW)In summarySafety FirstKnow what you are doing (and know when you don't)When in doubt, checking to see what W2AEW says is a good idea

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 02:31:35 am
content: Current limiting is worth its weight in gold for saving components (and preventing any risk of fires). Also for visual and audio feedback of a current trip. If you have a good idea of the expected current draw and you should, set your power supply to just a little bit above that. I find that I get attuned to the led and click sound even if I am a room or two away.Although its probably maybe not paid for both power supplies yet, in parts its saved, but it definitely has saved my components more than just a few times. If you use it intelligently it will usually make it fairly hard to damage your precious chips. You'll get in the habit of using your power like you might turn on a faucet. You don't leave your faucets all the way open. Never turn the current up all the way. I even turn the voltage down if I dont have a project hooked up to them. (Both of my power supplies use old school potentimeters so thats easy).Youll never damage your parts if you work this way. Now I cant live without the current limiting.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 03:52:36 am
content: Quote from: cdev on May 04, 2020, 02:31:35 amReally good tip for protecting components! I once saw an inventor lose his not super economically valuable but nostalgically valuable early prototype simply because someone overlooked current limiting during a demo.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 12:55:57 pm
content: I ended up going for the TENMA 72-10495 due to cost savings over the singles. Plus I don't think I would use the USB anyway.For leads I got2 of these:https://cpc.farnell.com/unbranded/in07781/test-lead-4mm-to-croc-clips/dp/IN077812 of these:https://cpc.farnell.com/tenma/72-9350/test-leads/dp/IN06177?CMP=i-ddd7-00001003And a red and black of these to solder on to one set of the above cables :https://cpc.farnell.com/tenma/72-14334/test-probe-conn-hook-6a-70v-black/dp/IN08472

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 11:20:27 pm
content: Another very useful thing, get some temperature sensitive LCD impregnated sheets in your typical room temperatures, (it changes color) its a poor man's thermography. Combined with the adjustable power supply you can use it to find shorts or figure out stuff thats not working. Because heat (a little or a lot) is always generated when something is working. If you applied full power you might damage it further but if you only apply a little you might find the short before it caused any damage and fix it.Plus the stuff is pretty and fun to use. Its very sensitive, it changes color instantaneously when the heat changes. Its also good for weatherproofing around the house. It works just like the digital camera based thermography but its orders of magnitude cheaper.Quote from: Electro Fan on May 04, 2020, 03:52:36 am

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 11:24:21 pm
content: Quote from: Dwiea on May 04, 2020, 12:55:57 pmI have little doubt you're going to get a lot of use and fun out of that power supply.

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2020, 11:25:34 pm
content: Another very useful thing, get some temperature sensitive LCD impregnated sheets in your typical room temperatures, (it changes color) its a poor man's thermography. Combined with the adjustable power supply you can use it to find shorts or figure out stuff thats not working. Because heat (a little or a lot) is always generated when something is working. If you applied full power you might damage it further but if you only apply a little you might find the short before it caused any damage and fix it.Plus the stuff is pretty and fun to use. Its very sensitive, it changes color instantaneously when the heat changes. Its also good for weatherproofing around the house. It works just like the digital camera based thermography but its orders of magnitude cheaper.The manufacturer is a company called Hallcrest. They sell a variety of different ranges.Quote from: Electro Fan on May 04, 2020, 03:52:36 am

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2020, 04:14:44 am
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on May 04, 2020, 11:24:21 pm+1Congrats Dwiea. Let us know how it goes.

author: Dwiea
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2020, 05:49:47 pm
content: Also got a delivery of a Hakko FX888D today! I have lived all these years wanting to throw my Parkside (Aldi or Lidl) soldering station out the window. I can't wait to try and use the Hakko tonight to remove a stubborn USB plug on a Amazon Kindle tablet which was broken by the kids.Was a tad expensive ... best not let the wife know

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2020, 04:42:31 am
content: [How do you like|dislike the UI? quote author=Dwiea link=topic=239820.msg3051040#msg3051040 date=1588700987]Also got a delivery of a Hakko FX888D today! I have lived all these years wanting to throw my Parkside (Aldi or Lidl) soldering station out the window. I can't wait to try and use the Hakko tonight to remove a stubborn USB plug on a Amazon Kindle tablet which was broken by the kids.Was a tad expensive ... best not let the wife knowI thinik it leaves a lot to be desired. LOL. Like iron, hate adjusting it.