Help me choose the right size 24VDC Power Supply

Choosing an 24VDC Power Supply from Allen Bradley

How big (amps) of a 24VDC power supply do I need when choosing an 24VDC Power Supply? Flat out, add up the inrush currents of every device powered by 24VDC. Then repeat for the nominal currents of those same devices. Compare those two numbers to the power supply specs. If they are under the published specs, good to go. How to do this quickly?

Ok, lets jump into a simple and quick procedure. Deeper math will provide better results, but this will help with a quick gut check:

  • Big bulky devices that require a separate power feed along with the signal? Spot check inrush.
  • Add up all nominal amps of devices like HMI, PLC, Ethernet Switches, enclosure lights, solenoid valves, devices requiring separate power wires to power up the device. You can ignore devices like pilot lights, dry contact inputs, or 2 wire devices. These draw relatively low amps.
  • Multiply the total nominal amps by 1.5 to ensure there is room to add future devices or for other inrush not accounted for.
  • Choose switched mode power supply.
  • Lastly, choose the input voltage type used for the power supply power feed.

For most uses, choosing an 24VDC Power Supply between 5 amp, 10 amp, or 20 amp 24VDC power supplies will work for standalone machines. A process may require multiple power supplies, depending on the amount of equipment in the area connected to the controls system. Need to bounce your thoughts off an expert? Contact Us

 

 

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