Industrial power supplies convert mains voltage into stable low-voltage DC for control cabinets, network equipment, LED lighting and automation. Our range has over 100 models for installers, electricians and system integrators. Brands include MEAN WELL, PULS and INTER-TECH.
How to choose an industrial power supply
Output voltage. It must match what the connected device requires, and 12 V, 24 V and 48 V are the usual values for automation, cameras and network equipment. Check the rating label on the device. A unit with an adjustable output lets you fine-tune a small deviation.
Power rating. Add up the consumption of everything you plan to connect and leave a margin of at least 20%. Motors, relays and LED fixtures draw more at start-up, so a unit chosen with no spare capacity may trip often.
Mounting type. DIN rail units clip onto a rail inside a cabinet without tools, while chassis and open-frame units are screwed to a panel or frame. Check the dimensions and the free space around the unit before you buy, because cooling depends on it.
Input voltage and protection. Make sure the unit works within your mains voltage and find out whether it accepts AC, DC or both. A good industrial unit protects against short circuits, overload and overvoltage, which shields the more expensive equipment it feeds.
Operating temperature and cooling. Many industrial units are cooled by convection with no fan, so they run silently and do not draw in dust. At high temperatures the maximum output is usually reduced, so check the manufacturer's specification to see what the unit delivers inside your cabinet.
Brands in our range
- MEAN WELL: a Taiwanese manufacturer known for a large offering of switching power supplies, including DIN rail, chassis and LED driver units. It is the largest group in our range.
- PULS: a German manufacturer that specialises in DIN rail power supplies for industrial automation.
- INTER-TECH: a German-based company known for PC cases and power supplies, including rackmount cases.
Also in our range: Synergy 21, Allied Telesis, Transmedia, Fortinet, EXSYS, LogiLink, Gembird and DIGITUS.
Frequently asked questions
How does an industrial power supply differ from a standard PC power supply?
An industrial unit usually delivers one stable voltage, such as 12 V or 24 V, while a PC power supply provides several different voltages. It is also built to be installed in a cabinet, often on a DIN rail, and to run continuously. A PC ATX unit is not designed for that kind of work.
Can I use a 24 V power supply instead of a 12 V one?
No, the voltage must match what the device requires. Too high a voltage can damage the connected equipment, and too low a voltage will stop it working properly. If the output is adjustable, only a small change around the rated value is allowed.
What power rating do I need?
You need a unit rated at least about 20% above the total consumption of your devices. Work out each device's current, multiply it by the voltage and add the results together. The spare capacity copes with start-up surges and extends the life of the unit.
What is a DIN rail power supply?
A DIN rail power supply is a unit that clips onto a standard 35 mm metal rail inside an electrical cabinet. This makes installation quick and drill-free, right next to circuit breakers, relays and controllers. It is the usual mounting method in automation and building control cabinets.
