Laboratory Power Supplies – Guide & Overview
What Is a Laboratory Power Supply?
A laboratory power supply provides controllable DC power with settable voltage and current, enabling safe and repeatable testing of electronic circuits.
Common features include adjustable limits, clear readouts, and protective functions to preserve devices under test and maintain measurement integrity.
Why They Matter
Accuracy and stability are essential in labs. A quality supply minimizes ripple and fluctuations so results reflect the circuit—not the power source.
Adjustability and protection reduce risk, improve repeatability, and support a wide range of experiments and workflows.
Key Types of Laboratory Power Supplies
Bench Power Supplies
General-purpose units for everyday lab tasks, offering adjustable voltage and current with straightforward controls and displays.
Programmable Power Supplies
Designed for automation and remote control in production or advanced research; suitable when repeatable sequences are required.
Multi-Channel Power Supplies
Provide multiple independent outputs in one chassis to simplify setups for complex devices or multi-rail systems.
Low-Noise Power Supplies
Optimized for sensitive measurements where minimal ripple and interference are important, such as audio or RF testing.
How to Choose the Right Supply
Match voltage and current ranges to your device. Consider total power, regulation accuracy, available protections, and thermal behavior under load.
Decide if programmability or multiple channels are needed for your workflow, and weigh ergonomics, readability, and noise performance.
Common Applications
Used in research, development, education, and maintenance to power prototypes, verify designs, and perform repeatable tests under controlled conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between bench and programmable power supplies?
Bench units are adjusted manually for general use, while programmable supplies support automated control and remote operation for repeatable workflows.
How should I size voltage and current?
Identify your device’s nominal and peak needs, include headroom, and ensure the supply’s protection features align with your safety requirements.
When do I need a low-noise model?
Choose low-noise designs for sensitive measurements where ripple or interference could affect signal integrity and outcomes.