Robert,

When I first started my test-bench project, I bought an Avel Y236801 500VA 25V+25V from Parts Express (currently $79.29 plus shipping) and a PMDX-135-8020 power supply board (currently $119 plus shipping). Those two parts are all that you need to build a power supply. If your power supply requirements are 50VDC or lower and the current requirements are 10A or less, PMDX also has the PMDX-136-5010 ($55 + shipping).

I have also built several power supplies with toroidal transformer, a computer grade capacitor (large "can" type, 15,000uF or greater), and a bridge rectifier; however, finding large computer grade "can" type capacitors is becoming more difficult. The smaller "snap-cap" type, which are designed to be soldered to a mounting p.c. board, have taken over.

Robert,

Based on my experiences with John at Antek and Mr. Richards' reassurance, I built my own power supply. Piece of cake. Take one evening and read some of the websites and I think you'll feel comfortable enough to try it.

Thanks Doug for you support :)
I’m totally in favor of your direction.
Mr Richard, you & many others out their give me the assuring push to go there, making my own. Actually, I may add, it feels more coherent with the MM approach, built your own.
Sure it’s easer & to some safer to buy one, but also fun & rewarding making one ?!
I’ll look in to that, Robert

BTW… What do you mean by Based on my experiences with John at Antek.... :eek:

Robert,
I guess you weren't a member of this forum when I had my problems. I ordered a PS from Antek and it took forever before I received it. I had to call several times. Then I changed my mind and decided I wanted a different voltage so I ordered another one. Both times, Antek charged my credit card on the day I placed my order. I made several calls about the second one and never received it. Finally, I gave up and built my own. It still took forever to get the charge for the second PS off my credit card. I was never cheated by Antek but I found them to be extremely slow to respond. I believe John is an honest guy but he's either very disorganized or very overworked.

Hi Doug,
Thanks for your input :)
Sorry if my memory or my lack of not searching, I should of look at your personal page before asking :o
I’ve been lurking and reading on this forum since early 2006, so I’ve read some, remember some and, hate to admit at my age (43), forgot some :eek:
In your case, my hope for John is let say he’s a little victim of his success, that is overwork mixed with some disorganization??
Sorry to hear you did not get good service out of what seemed to be a fairly good business !
Regardless, I’ am still challenge & fascinated by this making my own, but if it’s = or more expensive to make, I may vote to buy ?? I’ll see the out come if John has time or means to call back and show some interest in my business, as little it may be !!
Later, Robert ;)