PSU stands for power supply unit. We refer to a power supply as a device that converts mains AC input to a DC output. A PSU can sometimes refer to the power supply within a PC, but this isn’t something we can offer.
 

An AC to DC rectifier is a device that converts alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). There are different types of rectifiers, including half-wave, full-wave, and bridge rectifiers, each with varying levels of efficiency and output smoothness, but is a key component within most power supplies.

This is why the teminology used typically refers to the finished product, which is a DC Power Supply. So whilst the rectifier refers to a component within a power supply, it is most commonly used to refer to the finished product, which is a DC Power Supply. 
 

A switch mode power supply (SMPS) is a comparatively compact and efficient device that converts electrical power from AC to DC. Unlike traditional linear power supplies, SMPSs rapidly switch the input voltage on and off at high frequencies, and are able to achieve higher efficiency and reduced heat generation. It also allows the products to be smaller, lighter and cheaper than has historically possible. Most modern power supplies are Switch Mode, with linear power supplies mostly used for specialised applications.
 

To answer this, you need two pieces of information, your required voltage and required power (either in Amps or Watts). First, find the DC voltage required. Some common voltages are 12Vdc and 24Vdc. It is important to select the correct voltage, and check it requires DC not AC power.

Next, find how much power is required. This is measured in amps or watts (with watts being the total power, calculated as Voltage x Amps), and you need to use a power supply with more power than your required load. So, if you have a 300W load the very minimum requirement is a 300W power supply. However, you can use a power supply with higher output power, for example a 350W power supply.
 

No, if your minimum required load (A) is less than the maximum output current (measured in Amps), you will need to use a larger power supply. For example, a 10A power supply could be used to power a 5A load, but a 5A power supply could not power a 10A load.
 

Yes, current is drawn, not forced. So you can use a 10A power supply to power a 5A load. The 10A power supply would only supply 5A, but still have the capability to power a further 5A.
 

UPS refers to Uninterruptible Power Supply, which means the output will not be interrupted in a mains failure by using a battery backup. We offer UPS units with either a DC or AC output, and more information can be found on our DC UPS and AC UPS applications.
 

When asked this question, we assume the user requires a power supply with a 3-phase input. These are available, but there aren’t as many options as possible available and they usually start at a higher wattage output. If this is required, please advise us on your requirement so this can be looked in to.