Product Catalogs
NewsAC Adapter Basics
2010-09-04 15:14:54 Author：Theone CopyFrom： Hits：0
There are several basic types. Despite the fact that the plugs to the equipment may be identical These can generally not be interchanged. The type (AC or DC), voltage, current capacity, and polarity are all critical to proper operation of the equipment. Use of an improper adapter or even just reverse polarity can permanently damage or destroy the device. Most equipment is protected against stupidity to a greater or lessor degree but don't count on it.
The most common problems are due to failure of the output cable due to flexing at either the adapter or output plug end. .
AC Transformer. However, only if the output is stated to be 'AC' does the device consist of only a transformer. These adapters typically put out anywhere from 3 to 20 VAC or more at 50 mA to 3 A or more. The most common range from 6 to 15 VAC at less than 1 A. The regulation is typically very poor so that an adapter rated at 12 VAC may put out 15 VAC with no load and drop to less than 12 VAC at rated load. However, some may actually output up to two times the rated voltage or more with a light load. To gain agency approval, the transformer needs to be protected internally so that there is no fire hazard even if the output is shorted. There may be a fuse or thermal fuse internally located.
