Chargers
External Power Supplies (Plug-in and Desktop Power Supplies)
Find practical answers to frequently asked questions about our external plug-in and desktop power supplies for industrial, medical, and IT applications. These articles support you with selecting the appropriate model, navigating country-specific mains plug options, and ensuring safe commissioning and troubleshooting.
Worauf muss ich bei der Auswahl eines passenden externen Netzteils achten?
For an external power supply unit (e.g. a desktop power supply) to operate safely, four criteria must match your device: voltage, current, polarity, and connector dimensions. You will usually find the required ratings on your device’s rating plate (typically under "Input") or on your previous power supply under "Output".
- Voltage (volts / V) – must match exactly: The output voltage of the power supply unit must match your device's input voltage precisely. Excessive voltage can permanently damage the electronics; insufficient voltage will cause the device not to start or to run unstably.
- Current (amperes / A) – may be higher: The power supply unit must supply at least the current required by the device. A higher ampere or wattage rating on the power supply poses no risk, as the device only draws the current it actually requires.
- Polarity – must match: Check the polarity symbol on the device. DC barrel connectors are usually centre-positive (positive pole inside). The replacement power supply must have identical polarity.
- Connector dimensions (DC barrel connector): The connector must fit securely and smoothly into the socket. Common dimensions specify the outer and inner diameters (e.g. 5.5 × 2.1 mm or 5.5 × 2.5 mm). If socket dimensions are non-standard or unclear, universal power supplies with an adapter set can help.
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