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Linking two power supplies

dizio

Hello !

 

I'm new to this forum, so i don't know about its standards,

 

But before making any mistakes and putting myself in danger, I need your help :

 

I'm making a device that needs two separates power supplies (12V 4A for it screen, and a USB C PD , sending both 5V and 15V , basically a Nintendo Switch power supply)

 

For my project, I need to make a fusion between theses two power supplies, and to do so, I removed theses from their plastic shells, and I was wondering if it was possible to link the C7 plug (AC input, two wires, not a triphased) to the AC (Also two wires)

 

Is it possible ?

  • 0

    Hi Adil,

     

    A multi-way mains extension socket allows you to plug in many mains-operated devices, into a single outlet, and they all operate together. What you're suggesting is electrically no different to that. In general when you connect many things together in parallel all to the same power supply, then they all operate like ships in the night, there is no interaction between them.

    Whether it is safe or not, is another issue. Usually these mains supplies are double-insulated, and removing the case means that protection is lost, and there are legal implications (country-specific) too. You can see some examples of bad methods here: Mains power control

    The better solution is to use an off-the-shelf multi-way mains extension, since that doesn't involve opening power supplies.

  • 0 in reply to shabaz

    Thanks for your rapid answer !
    The insulation with prevent both transformer to interact too, so as you said, I should keep them in their shell,

     

    So, If I use them without any teardown, I'll have a C7 plug for the first Power supply, and a normal plug for the other one (European plug), I could definitely find a way to link them both.

     

    About insulation : If I keep my system like this (removed cases) but putting them both in the same box, with roughly 1 cm of spacing, is it ok ?

  • 0 in reply to dizio

    Hi Adil,

     

    It depends on things such as construction-methods and materials, e.g. what glue or assembly method you will use, since there may not be screw-holes on the PCBs. it would be a hack. A proper solution would use power supplies designed for fitting in a larger chassis.

    Also consider how the wire will be attached and secured. It may be good enough for personal use. Again, a proper solution would use a C14 connector. If it causes a fire or harms someone else, it will be hard to escape liability.