In this tutorial, we are going to demonstrate one of the easiest DIY projects with a simple design and low cost. A 15V DC Power Supply using LM7815 IC. The power supply is an electronic device that is usually referred to as an electric power converter because it converts one form of electrical energy into another.
In this project, we are using an LM7815 IC. For designing a power supply, mostly used ICs are with a series of 78xx and 79xx (xx= desired output voltage) because they are cheap, smaller in size with three basic terminal pins input, ground, and output and require very few external components which make this project very easy. Since it is a voltage regulator IC, it also keeps the voltage constant providing overload protection.
Hardware Components
The following components are required to make a Power Supply Circuit
S.no | Component | Value | Qty |
---|---|---|---|
1. | IC Regulator | LM7815 | 1 |
2. | Center tapped Transformer | 230V/15V 2A | 1 |
3. | Diode | 2A, 4x | 1 |
4. | Diode | 1N4001 | 1 |
5. | Electrolyte Capacitor | 2200µF, 100uF | 1, 1 |
6. | Ceramic Capacitor | 330nF | 1 |
LM7815 Pinout
For a detailed description of pinout, dimension features, and specifications download the datasheet of LM7815
Power Supply Circuit
Working Explanation
In order to make this circuit work, the first thing you’re going to need is an AC transformer that should have a primary rating of 230V or 110 V and the center-tapped coil should be rated about 15V and 2A.
The current flows through a diode bridge consisting of four diodes of 2A for the conversion of AC to DC. Then the current flows to capacitors C1 and C2, here we are using C2 to filter the noise signal in DC voltage, after that the DC voltage goes to the IC. Another diode 1N4001 is used to block the feedback to the IC since the IC becomes hot during the process and a suitable heatsink is required.
Another capacitor is used to further smooth and clean noise in DC output voltage and finally, you get an output of 15V.
Application
- They are used in operational amplifiers.
- Their main application is the conversion of AC to DC.
- It can also be used for Audio buffering or mixing.
- Widely used in toys for DC motors.