AC to DC Power Transformers

[joeh]

AC to DC Power adapter

Hey guys,
I have a really stupid question here. I have a electronic device here, that needs a power adapter/transformer of 13.8V @ 500mA. I have a power adapter that is 13.8V but it is at 1A. Will it be ok to use this even though it only needs 500mA.
Thanks

 

[Pepper]

man it's been a long time, somebody correct me if i'm wrong here.

The amperage rating on the transformer is the maximum it can safely and reliably provide, so yes, a device requiring less should be ok. The actual amount of current drawn is determined by the device itself.

 

[joeh]

thanks, that is what I was thinking but wanted to post here and make sure that it was correct, before i plugged it in and blew it up.
Thanks

 

[Bob Haller]

Its fine but if its DC mind the correct polarity.... 500a is a half amp

if you ask me they should standardize on just a few ratings and let the device obtain the correct voltage

 

[joeh]

I totaly agree with you. I got an adapter that meet what I needed according to the manual.
Thanks for the info guys.

 

[AudioInstallers]

yep, you are correct 500 mA is 1/2 an amp (1 mA is 1 one thousandth of an amp) and current is drawn, not forced, if you want to protect your device, install a 1/2 amp fuse in the positive lead of the load side of the transformer.