Voltage regulators maintain constant voltage for devices. They correct problems related to voltage imbalance, line noise and surge among other critical issues. Technology continues advancing the need for regulators. Size, power, dependability and price weigh in on this competitive marketplace.

Locate an automatic, precision, linear, auto or precision voltage regulator for industrial, commercial, medical and electrical device applications. When buying from voltage regulator companies consider the following:

1. Understand the required voltage regulation, application and environment, as the online specs are typically detailed.

2. Look for power regulators with enclosures, meters or modules and circuits for projects and replacement parts.

3. Find niche areas like an auto voltage regulator for that vintage vehicle.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy an automatic voltage regulator online

These products ensure automatic protection for sensitive equipment that includes electronics, medical and computers. Automatic voltage regulators also provide power for equipment from backup sources.

I recommend: Buy online by clicking “here” on the page and get details with prices by selecting an item number at NoOutage.com. Go to Gandhi Appliances of Chicago for automatic voltage regulators up to 4,000 watts; see additional products at the bottom and buy online. Contact CareBase from the information at the bottom for a high capacity automatic precision voltage regulator. Click a photo at the bottom of the page for specs and pricing on products that include fully automatic servo motor type voltage regulators at International Electrical Supplies; order online.

Get a voltage regulator circuit new or repaired

These specialty companies each offer different services. Get a circuit kit or server board, or send your circuit in for repair instead of replacement.

I recommend: Get a circuit kit adjustable voltage regulator with 35V input and 5, 9 or 12V output at Micro Circuit Labs; order online. Instead of replacing a damaged circuit board with an old or obsolete DC or AC voltage regulator, email or phone Protec from the contact info on the page for quick repair service. Find the Compaq server converter board/regulator you require with online ordering at Impact Computers & Electronics.

Purchase a voltage regulator module for your motherboard

These replaceable voltage regulators typically monitor a computer processor's voltage to ensure proper power levels to the microprocessor.

I recommend: For pricing and availability of Sun memory voltage regulator modules call the number on the page at AnySystem.com; get type and product numbers by clicking “Next.” Contact a manufacturer rep at Primarion for VRM/VRD ordering info applicable to Intel and AMD processors; place your mouse over “Products,” then click “VRM/VRD” for product specs by model number.

Find an auto voltage regulator for new or older cars

All the popular models are represented, with years going back to the 1940s.

I recommend: Scroll to an imported vehicle, most years back to the 80s, for a Bosch voltage regulator, or “Shop by Vehicle” by entering model and year to the early 40s at Auto Parts Warehouse; then order online. Choose your vehicle, domestic or foreign, and year at the “Start Here” box to order from the online catalog at AutoPartsGiant.com.

Order online a step down or linear high voltage regulator

Voltage regulation for these devices range up to 80V input with thermal shutdown and adjustable output voltage.

I recommend: Buy online a step down switching high voltage regulator at National Semiconductor for non-isolated buck regulator, second high voltage post and automotive systems. Go to Maxim Integrated Products for a linear voltage regulator applicable for automotive uses, fire/smoke alarms and home security.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Typically, a linear voltage regulator features low output noise and provides cost advantages at low power levels. Switching regulators offer cost advantages at higher power levels.