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How to Use SMPS 12v 15A: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of SMPS 12v 15A
Cirkit Designer LogoDesign with SMPS 12v 15A in Cirkit Designer

Introduction

The TNK SMPS 12V 15A is a high-efficiency Switch Mode Power Supply designed to convert AC mains voltage into a stable 12V DC output. With a maximum current capacity of 15A, this SMPS is ideal for powering a wide range of electronic devices, including LED strips, CCTV systems, industrial equipment, and other DC-powered applications. Its compact design, high efficiency, and reliable performance make it a popular choice for both hobbyists and professionals.

Explore Projects Built with SMPS 12v 15A

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Modular Power Distribution System with Multiple SMPS Units and 120V Outlet
Image of Cellion-Tesla: A project utilizing SMPS 12v 15A in a practical application
This circuit is designed to convert 240V AC power to both 12V and 24V DC outputs using multiple SMPS units. Terminal blocks are used to organize and distribute the power, while a 120V outlet provides additional AC power access. The circuit is likely used for powering various electronic devices that require different voltage levels.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
12V UPS System with Dual 18650 Li-ion Battery Backup and Voltage Regulation
Image of Power supply: A project utilizing SMPS 12v 15A in a practical application
This circuit is designed to provide an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system with a 12V DC output. It includes a 12V 5A power supply connected to an AC source through a toggle switch, which charges a pair of 18650 Li-ion batteries via a voltage regulator (XL4016). The UPS module ensures a continuous power supply to the load by switching between the power supply and the battery bank.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Dual 5V Power Supply Distribution Circuit with Toggle Switch Control
Image of rfdriver: A project utilizing SMPS 12v 15A in a practical application
This circuit consists of two 5V 5A power supplies connected to an AC wall plug point, providing DC output through a 12-way connector. The ground connections from both power supplies are interconnected and also connected to the ground pins of two toggle switches. The DC outputs from the power supplies are separately connected to different pins on the 12-way connector, with each power supply output being switchable via one of the toggle switches.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32-Based Smart Energy Monitoring and Relay Control System
Image of ANSA: A project utilizing SMPS 12v 15A in a practical application
This circuit utilizes an ESP32 microcontroller to monitor voltage and current via ZMPT101B voltage sensors and a current sensor. It controls a series of five 1-Channel 5V 10A relays based on the sensor readings, which in turn manage the power to connected AC LED bulbs. The system is powered by a 12V SMPS module, with a 12V battery backup, and includes resistors and an electrolytic capacitor for circuit stability and noise reduction.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with SMPS 12v 15A

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of Cellion-Tesla: A project utilizing SMPS 12v 15A in a practical application
Modular Power Distribution System with Multiple SMPS Units and 120V Outlet
This circuit is designed to convert 240V AC power to both 12V and 24V DC outputs using multiple SMPS units. Terminal blocks are used to organize and distribute the power, while a 120V outlet provides additional AC power access. The circuit is likely used for powering various electronic devices that require different voltage levels.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of Power supply: A project utilizing SMPS 12v 15A in a practical application
12V UPS System with Dual 18650 Li-ion Battery Backup and Voltage Regulation
This circuit is designed to provide an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system with a 12V DC output. It includes a 12V 5A power supply connected to an AC source through a toggle switch, which charges a pair of 18650 Li-ion batteries via a voltage regulator (XL4016). The UPS module ensures a continuous power supply to the load by switching between the power supply and the battery bank.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of rfdriver: A project utilizing SMPS 12v 15A in a practical application
Dual 5V Power Supply Distribution Circuit with Toggle Switch Control
This circuit consists of two 5V 5A power supplies connected to an AC wall plug point, providing DC output through a 12-way connector. The ground connections from both power supplies are interconnected and also connected to the ground pins of two toggle switches. The DC outputs from the power supplies are separately connected to different pins on the 12-way connector, with each power supply output being switchable via one of the toggle switches.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of ANSA: A project utilizing SMPS 12v 15A in a practical application
ESP32-Based Smart Energy Monitoring and Relay Control System
This circuit utilizes an ESP32 microcontroller to monitor voltage and current via ZMPT101B voltage sensors and a current sensor. It controls a series of five 1-Channel 5V 10A relays based on the sensor readings, which in turn manage the power to connected AC LED bulbs. The system is powered by a 12V SMPS module, with a 12V battery backup, and includes resistors and an electrolytic capacitor for circuit stability and noise reduction.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

  • Powering LED lighting systems (e.g., LED strips, LED panels)
  • Supplying power to CCTV cameras and DVR systems
  • Driving DC motors in industrial or hobbyist projects
  • Providing stable power for microcontroller-based systems
  • General-purpose DC power supply for laboratory or workshop use

Technical Specifications

The following table outlines the key technical details of the TNK SMPS 12V 15A:

Parameter Specification
Input Voltage Range 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz
Output Voltage 12V DC
Maximum Output Current 15A
Maximum Output Power 180W
Efficiency ≥85%
Ripple and Noise ≤120mV (peak-to-peak)
Operating Temperature -10°C to +50°C
Cooling Method Natural air cooling or fan-assisted
Dimensions 200mm x 98mm x 42mm
Weight ~600g
Protection Features Overload, overvoltage, short circuit

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The TNK SMPS 12V 15A has the following input and output terminals:

Pin Label Description
L Live AC input (100-240V AC)
N Neutral AC input
GND Earth/ground connection
V+ Positive DC output (12V)
V- Negative DC output (GND)
ADJ Voltage adjustment (±10% of 12V output)

Usage Instructions

How to Use the Component in a Circuit

  1. Wiring the Input:

    • Connect the AC mains supply to the L (Live) and N (Neutral) terminals.
    • Ensure the GND terminal is connected to the earth/ground for safety.
  2. Wiring the Output:

    • Connect the V+ terminal to the positive input of your load (e.g., LED strip, motor).
    • Connect the V- terminal to the negative input of your load (GND).
  3. Adjusting the Output Voltage:

    • Use the ADJ screw to fine-tune the output voltage within ±10% of 12V (10.8V to 13.2V).
    • Use a multimeter to monitor the output voltage while adjusting.
  4. Powering On:

    • Double-check all connections for correctness and safety.
    • Turn on the AC mains supply to power the SMPS.

Important Considerations and Best Practices

  • Load Capacity: Ensure the total load does not exceed 15A to prevent overloading the SMPS.
  • Ventilation: Install the SMPS in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
  • Safety Precautions: Always disconnect the SMPS from the mains supply before making any wiring changes.
  • Voltage Adjustment: Avoid excessive adjustment of the ADJ screw to maintain stable operation.
  • Fuse Protection: Use an appropriate fuse on the input side for added safety.

Example: Connecting to an Arduino UNO

The TNK SMPS 12V 15A can be used to power an Arduino UNO via a DC-DC step-down converter (e.g., a buck converter) to step down the 12V to 5V. Below is an example wiring and code:

Wiring Diagram

  1. Connect the V+ and V- terminals of the SMPS to the input of the buck converter.
  2. Set the buck converter output to 5V using its adjustment screw.
  3. Connect the 5V output of the buck converter to the Arduino UNO's 5V and GND pins.

Arduino Code Example

// Example code to blink an LED connected to pin 13 of the Arduino UNO
// Ensure the Arduino is powered via the SMPS through a buck converter

void setup() {
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // Set pin 13 as an output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(13, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for 1 second
}

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue Possible Cause Solution
No output voltage Incorrect wiring or no AC input Verify input wiring and ensure AC mains is connected.
Output voltage too high or too low Misadjusted ADJ screw Adjust the ADJ screw while monitoring with a multimeter.
SMPS overheating Poor ventilation or excessive load Ensure proper airflow and reduce the load to within 15A.
Load not functioning properly Insufficient current or incorrect wiring Check load requirements and verify wiring connections.
SMPS shuts down intermittently Overload or short circuit protection active Reduce the load or check for short circuits.

FAQs

  1. Can I use this SMPS to power a 5V device?

    • Yes, but you will need a DC-DC step-down converter to reduce the 12V output to 5V.
  2. Is the SMPS suitable for outdoor use?

    • No, this SMPS is not weatherproof. Use it in a dry, indoor environment.
  3. What happens if I exceed the 15A limit?

    • The SMPS will activate its overload protection and shut down to prevent damage.
  4. Can I use this SMPS to charge a 12V battery?

    • It is not recommended, as the SMPS does not have the necessary charging circuitry to safely charge batteries.

By following this documentation, you can safely and effectively use the TNK SMPS 12V 15A in your projects.