How many amps should a power supply have?

If connecting multiple radios, add up the total amps of all the radios during peak load combined. For example, let's say you have a 50 watt radio and the maximum draw is listed at 10 amps. Buying a power supply advertised with a peak load of 10 amps might still be a bad move. First, power supplies have two amp ratings: continuous and maximum.

How much power does a power supply provide?

How Much Power? Power supplies are often rated by their continuous and intermittent/peak (ICS) current capacities. The figure you want to look at is the continuous rating—the amount of current the power supply can provide. For example, the Samlex SEC-1235P-M switching power supply is rated 30A continuous output, 36A peak.

How do I choose the right size power supply for my Radio?

To the average layperson, all this sounds overly complicated. So to simplify the process, here are some general guidelines for choosing the right size power supply for your radio. Use the manufacturer's amp rating of the radio as the rule. Use the maximum, or peak load rating of the radio, not the standby or typical draw.

What are the different types of power supplies?

Power supplies come in a variety of configurations, from simple to full-featured. Basic models just change 125VAC to 13VDC. Typical add-on features include volt/amp meters, multiple power outputs, noise offset controls to minimize RFI, variable voltage output controls, and over-temperature protection.

Do mobile radios need a power supply?

Mobile radios have different power requirements, and power supplies have different power ratings. Choose the correct power supply for your radio, and you may have years of clean power with no noisy interference and uninterrupted service. Choose the wrong one, and your radio may not be able to transmit or even stay on from the start.

How do I choose a DC power supply?

DC output options available on power supplies can include Anderson Powerpoles, binding posts, set screw terminals, and lighter plugs, or combinations of these. Choose the options most useful to you. Don’t worry about buying a power supply with a little extra current capacity. Your equipment will only draw the current it needs—no more, no less.