power budgeting

[ready961]

Hello
I need to buy a power supply and am unsure of what amperage to go with. I calculated that I will need about 6 amps not counting an other suprises or future ad ons. The place I'm buying the power supply from has 3amp, 6amp, 12amp to choice from. I think 6amp would be enough but what would it hurt to go with the 12amp??

 

[pinworm21]

Power bugeting

you also have to take into account "in rush current" if you are powering devices that have an in rush current you have to make sure it does not over draw the powersupply, it could steal power from the other devices (even for just that second) and can cause problems.

Dave

 

[ready961]

What would be the disadvantage with using an big power supply then needed?

 

[elevmike]

The only disatvantage of a higher wattage supply than required by your budget is that it will cost more and take up more space in your cabinet.

 

[Rick Densing]

Depending on the wire, you may go from 16AWG to 14 wire. If you calculate 6 amps now, I would go with the 12.