AC & DC Power Supply Testers

Power supplies and electronic loads are vital tools for delivering and testing electrical power in a controlled, precise way. Commonly used in industries like aerospace, automotive, defense, semiconductors, and education, these tools power components, simulate real-world conditions, and verify system performance.

At ValueTronics, we carry a wide range of new and used AC and DC power supplies, electronic loads, and power supply testers from top brands like Keysight, Tektronix, Rigol, and B&K Precision. From basic benchtop models to programmable, high-performance systems, we offer solutions for a variety of test environments and budgets.

Browse our inventory to compare features and specs, or contact our team for help selecting the right equipment for your application.

2611 products

Frequently Asked Questions

What are power supplies and electronic loads used for?
Power supplies and electronic loads are used to deliver, regulate, and simulate electrical power during product development, testing, and validation. Power supplies provide a stable voltage or current to a device under test (DUT), while electronic loads draw controlled power to simulate real-world operating conditions.

These tools are commonly used in applications such as circuit design, power system development, battery testing, and quality control. Engineers rely on them to verify performance, ensure safety, and replicate operational stresses in industries like aerospace, automotive (including EV testing), semiconductors, and education.
What types of power supplies are available?
There are several types of power supplies designed for different applications:

DC Power Supplies: Deliver constant direct current. Commonly used in circuit testing, battery charging, and electronics development.

AC Power Supplies: Provide alternating current. Ideal for simulating real-world power sources in appliances, motors, and industrial systems.

Programmable Power Supplies: Allow users to control voltage and current digitally. Used in automated testing and advanced simulations.

Modular Power Supplies: Feature multiple output channels. Useful for multi-device test environments and scalable setups.

ValueTronics carries both linear and switching models, with benchtop and rack-mounted options available from leading manufacturers.
What is the difference between linear and switching power supplies?
The main difference between linear and switching power supplies lies in how they convert and regulate voltage.

Linear Power Supplies: Use a transformer and linear regulator to provide clean, low-noise output. They are simple to use and ideal for sensitive analog or RF applications but tend to be larger, heavier, and less efficient.

Switching Power Supplies: Use high-frequency switching to regulate voltage, making them more compact and energy efficient. These are suitable for high-power or portable applications but may introduce more electrical noise compared to linear models.

Each type has its advantages depending on your application's size, efficiency, noise tolerance, and performance needs.
What is the difference between AC and DC power supplies?
AC and DC power supplies differ in the type of electrical output they provide.

AC Power Supplies: Output alternating current, where the flow of electricity periodically reverses direction. These are used to test devices that operate on standard mains power or require variable frequency and voltage conditions, such as motors, appliances, and power converters.

DC Power Supplies: Provide direct current, where electricity flows in a constant direction. These are commonly used in electronic circuit testing, battery charging, and powering digital systems or components.
How can the right power supply or load be selected for an application?
Selecting the right power supply or electronic load depends on several key factors:

Voltage and Current Requirements: Know the maximum and minimum values your device under test (DUT) needs to operate safely.

Load Type: Determine whether your application requires constant current, constant voltage, or a dynamic load profile.

Control and Programming Needs: Programmable units are ideal for automated testing, remote control, and data collection.

Form Factor: Benchtop models are suitable for labs or small workspaces. Rack-mounted options are better for larger systems or production lines.

Accuracy and Stability: Look for models with low ripple, precise regulation, and high resolution when working with sensitive electronics.

If you're unsure what fits your needs, ValueTronics can provide expert guidance and help you compare models from leading manufacturers.
Do power supplies come with built-in protection features?
Yes, most modern power supplies come equipped with built-in protection features to safeguard both the power supply and the device under test.

Common protection features include:
Overvoltage Protection (OVP): Prevents voltage from exceeding a set limit to avoid damaging connected components.

Overcurrent Protection (OCP): Limits the current output to protect against short circuits or excessive load.

Overtemperature Protection (OTP): Shuts down the unit or reduces output if internal temperatures rise too high.

Short Circuit Protection: Detects and responds to short circuits to prevent equipment failure or damage.