How to Switch a Power Regulator
In many applications, including automotive, the voltage generated by an alternator or stator changes depending on engine speed. This spells trouble for sensitive electronics, like built-in computer control modules or cell phones charging on the dash. To correct for this phenomenon, a power regulator moderates voltage as it passes through the device. There are two basic types of such regulators: linear and switched. Linear regulators are less expensive and easier to build, while switched regulators achieve higher efficiencies and less heat generation.
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Things You'll Need
- Wire cutters
- Wire strippers
- Switching voltage regulator
- Soldering iron
- Electronic soldering flux
- Electronic solder
- Electricians tape
Instructions
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1
Cut the power supply and capacitor wires running into the linear voltage regulator. Leave the capacitor grounded to the vehicle's frame and note its location for later.
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2
Cut the voltage output wire of the linear regulator at any point before the grounded resistor. Leave the resistor connected to the vehicle's electrical system but note its location for later.
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3
Strip about 1/8 inch of insulation from the wires at the following locations: the cut end of the resistor-output voltage wire, the capacitor wire and the voltage input wire. Insert each wire individually into the jaws of a wire stripper, then twist the wire stripper until the insulation is cut. Push the excess off the end of the wire.
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4
Twist together the voltage input wire on the switching regulator and the power supply wire coming from the vehicle's generating system.
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5
Apply a small dab of soldering flux and press the soldering iron onto the wire. Uncoil about 1 inch of electronic solder and press the end into the tip of the soldering iron, allowing the wires to wick up the solder. Remove the soldering iron immediately.
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6
Twist together the capacitor wire, the resistor-output voltage wire and the switching regulator output wire. Solder them using the same technique described in Step 5.
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7
Wrap all solder points with electrician's tape.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Wires in automotive applications can heat up fast under a soldering iron. Be sure to work quickly with the iron or the heat could damage the wire's insulation and possibly the regulator, capacitor and resistor connected to the circuit.
Unlike linear regulators, switching voltage regulators operate on a frequency spectrum. Be certain the regulator you choose matches with the frequency, measured in Hz or kHz, of your generating system.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
