Separate bench PSUs or multi-channel PSU

[jayuk]

Hi all,

I am after a general purpose (cheap) linear power supply(s). I need multiple outputs (minimum 2), which can supply 0-30v and up to around 5A each.

I will also have the requirement for a single output of up to 10A.

I am trying to decide whether to go for two separate units (which I can parallel), or a single dual/triple channel unit (which has internal serialing/paralelling of the outputs). The reason I am considering two units is in case of failure/problems, I wouldn't be writing off so much ££ and still have a functioning unit.

Can anyone think of why I should chose a single unit over the two? (They workout about the same price )

I am considering the:

Uni-T UTP3305-II (https://uni-t-shop.com/collections/utp3000-series/products/utp3305-ii-dc-power-supply)

or a pair of:

Uni-T UTP3315TFL-II (https://uni-t-shop.com/collections/utp3300tfl-ii-series/products/utp3315tfl-ii-dc-power-supply)

I've read on here that the support from Uni-T is poor/non-existent. Can anyone suggest any alternatives for a similar cost?

Thanks,
J.

[abeyer]

Can anyone think of why I should chose a single unit over the two

That multichannel one looks to have multi-turn pots rather than separate single-turn fine & coarse adjustments, which is my preference.

Having tracking channels makes it slightly more convenient if you want to set up a pair of +/- voltages without separately adjusting the two.

Doesn't seem to apply for what you're looking at here as they wouldn't support it anyway... but if you're ever going to use them to power multiple rails in a circuit with startup sequencing and timing requirements, that's way easier in a single unit.

[neverendingstudent]

If you don't need something immediately, I'd advise keeping an eye on eBay for power supplies - I've gotten a bunch of my equipment that way for super cheap by being patient.

Older (but perfectly serviceable and high-quality) units show up there all the time.  Just pay attention to condition, if it is shown working in the pictures, and things like seller reputation / where it is shipping from.

[JimKnopf]

Maybe it's not cheap, but it matches your needs i think.

I'm got an EEZ BB3 PSU. It's a programmable PSU with 3 slots. I use two DCP405. That means 2x 0-40 V 0-5A, they can be coupled to 0-80V 5A or 0-40V 10 A.

The downside is, you have to selfassemble the DCP405 PCB and the Unit itself.

[abeyer]

Maybe it's not cheap, but it matches your needs i think.

I'm got an EEZ BB3 PSU. It's a programmable PSU with 3 slots. I use two DCP405. That means 2x 0-40 V 0-5A, they can be coupled to 0-80V 5A or 0-40V 10 A.

The downside is, you have to selfassemble the DCP405 PCB and the Unit itself.

I don't think they even have stock of the DCP405 pcbs any more... you'd have to buy the empty chassis and then get your own pcbs manufactured and build them up for each module. More of a project than a solution. Also, as you point out, it's like 4-5x the price of what OP was looking at.

[JimKnopf]

@abeyer The DCP405 PCB is still in stock on envox.eu store (7 Eur). Mouser/Crowdsupply have chasis and base modules.
But yes, it's a project rather than a quick shopping. The bom list and pcb is at https://kitspace.org/interactive_bom/?github.com/eez-open/modular-psu/dcp405. Ordering parts from around the world is a little adventure. But opensource and openhardware.

[abeyer]

@abeyer The DCP405 PCB is still in stock on envox.eu store (7 Eur). Mouser/Crowdsupply have chasis and base modules.

Huh, didn't realize they sold stuff directly... though weird that they don't have everything to put together a working system at either site: you have to order half from their store and half from Mouser/CS.

I don't disagree the BB3 is nice, I have one too, but still doesn't really seem relevant to the subject.