Build Your Own 0-15V Dual Polarity Power Supply

Description

This dual-polarity power supply is straightforward to construct, necessitates a limited number of components, and offers adjustable voltage ranging from 0 to 15 volts. It's well-suited for powering op-amp circuits, along with other circuits needing a dual supply voltage source.

Circuit Diagram

Dual Polarity Power Supply-Circuit diagram

Components

  • C1, C2 2200µF 35V Electrolytic Capacitor
  • C3, C4, C5, C7 1µF 35V Electrolytic Capacitor
  • C6, C8 100µF 35V Electrolytic Capacitor
  • R1, R4 5k Potentiometer
  • R2, R3 240 Ohm 1/4 W Resistor
  • BR1 2A 30V Bridge Rectifier
  • U1 LM317 Adjustable Positive Regulator
  • U2 LM337 Adjustable Negative Regulator
  • T1 30V Center-Tapped 2 Amp Transformer
  • S1 SPST 2 Amp Switch
  • MISC Heatsinks for U1 and U2, Line Cord, Case, Knobs for Pots, Wire

Notes

  1. Due to the operation from 120 (or 220, or 240, etc.) volts AC, this project must be housed within a protective enclosure.
  2. U1 and U2 generate considerable heat and will require heatsinks. A fan is typically unnecessary.
  3. Adding a volt and amp meter is, of course, an option.
  4. U1 and U2 have a minimum output voltage of +-1.2V. If a lower voltage is needed, two 1N4003 diodes in series with the regulator's output can be added. These diodes each drop approximately 0.6V, permitting a supply voltage of 0V. Note that this action also reduces the maximum output voltage by 1.2V. (Courtesy of Steve Horvath, horvaths@techcomnet.com for the suggestion).

LM317 Adjustable Positive Regulator

The LM317 is a versatile three-terminal adjustable positive voltage regulator. This IC is widely used for creating precise voltage references. Its primary function is to maintain a stable output voltage regardless of changes in the input voltage or load current. The LM317's adjustable nature allows users to precisely set the output voltage within a specified range. It operates from a minimum of 1.2V to a maximum of 35V, making it suitable for diverse applications. The pinout is standard, with pins 1 and 2 defining the adjustable output voltage.

LM337 Adjustable Negative Regulator

The LM337 is a three-terminal adjustable negative voltage regulator. This IC is designed to produce a stable negative voltage from a positive supply. Similar to the LM317, it maintains a consistent output voltage even with variations in input voltage or load current. The LM337 is often used in battery charging circuits and other applications requiring a regulated negative supply. Like the LM317, it operates within a specific voltage range (typically 1.2V to -35V).