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Need to convert 18vdc 20a power supply to 12v without losing amps.

Brian Alston
Prodigy 10 points
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: LM3150

To whom it may concern-

I am a novice when it come to electronics and circuitry so I need your help desperately.

I have an 18vdc 20A power source (changing this is not an option) that needs to power a 12v motor (which requires between 5-10 amps minimum to operate) However 18 volts is too powerful for the motor.

I tried a 7812 regulator. While its been great for other applications, it robs way too much current (over 18 amps) in the process - too inefficient, and doesnt leave me with enough amperage to power the motor.

Without getting into building circuit boards, (unless someone can easily walk me through a simple build) I need to find a small and inexpensive PLUG-AND-PLAY component (under $5.00 hopefully) that will step down my voltage to 12volts without reducing the amps by more than 8-10.

Power source Minimum Motor Needs
18vdc 20amps 12 vdc 10amps

Im pulling my hair out because I am not well versed in this area.
HELP!!!!

Brian Alston

908-256-4349

  • 0
    TI__Genius 10095 points

    Hi Brian,

    Since you are using a linear regulator to start with, it sounds like you don't need a lot of features.  

    Unfortunately this is a lot of power to convert so you will probably need to go with a controller which is more complicated than the linear regulator.

    Here is the link to a webench design.  You get there normally by going to TI.com look for the Webench interface and type in your power needs.

    Then there is a list of parts that are in Webench that could work.  I selected the LM3150 because I have designed with it before.

    Then I would recommend ordering the LM3150 Evaluation board and modifying it to match the webench design or ordering the build it board.

    Regards,

    Marc