Power adapters, also known as power supplies, are an integral part of any small electronic device. The power adapter takes the current supplied from a wall socket, mobile power port and in some cases, a USB port and in turn adapt them to low voltage DC power. Powering cell phones, computers, laptops, computer peripherals, MP3 players and many more, the electronic world relies on power adapters. Electronic devices work at specific voltages, watts and amps and using the wrong power adapter keeps a device from working properly or simply renders the device inoperable.

Power adapters are available in the familiar wall-wart variety as well as contact folding compact versions. Laptops power adapters are two-piece designs for easier portability. Whatever your power adapter needs there are power adapter manufacturers to meet your business specifications. When it comes time to buy power adapters, consider the following:

1. Use conventional power adapters for mobile devices and computer peripherals.

2. Provide DC or AC power adapters to give customers more flexibility in where they can use your product.

3. Install self-contained power adapters in electronics where mobility is not a concern.

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

Find conventional power adapters to make home and mobile installations easier for the customer

Conventional power transformers consist of a transformer sealed in a hard plastic case, an adapter body, power input cable and an insulated outer casing. Used as the primary power supply for the vast majority of electronic devices they are available in AC and DC output models to meet the needs of a wide range of applications.

I recommend: ENG Electric Company provides an easy to use tool for identifying the correct adapter for your product no matter where it's sold around the world. Lind Electronics manufactures laptop, conventional and industrial power adapters for business applications.

Select an AC-DC adapter that meets the exact power requirements of your device

AC-DC adapters appear much like conventions adapters but allow electronic devices to operate in a multiple environment from the alternating current supplied at the wall. AC-DC adapters allow power to flow in one direction only while converting the AC power to the precise amperage and voltage to meet the devices requirements.

I recommend: Phihong USA is a global manufacturer of power adapters, supplies and accessories for businesses large and small. Emerson Network Power offers a variety of AC-DC power supplies including low to medium and medium to high power, external adapters and more. American Toppower manufactures a full line of slim line AC-DC power adapters.

Find internal power adapter suppliers with a large selection of size and power options

Internal power AC and DC power adapters built into the electronics eliminates the need for a wall-wart. The small form power plug used in radios, televisions and other self-contained devices has the transformer on a board. This style of power adapter can have a removable or permanent power cord depending on the specific application.

I recommend: CUI distributes a full line of internal power supplies to meet your business production needs. Lambda Americas distributes self-contained power adapters and accessories for industrial production operations.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Selecting the right power adapter that meets the needs of your customers isn't easy. Use product testing and usability studies to determine the best style for your application.