Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Power supply question.....

In a message dated 22-Apr-02 05:05:03 Central Daylight Time, asdf@...
writes:

> the question I have is, can one "add" the mf values, instead of using one
> large cap? And if so, how would they be connected, series or parallel?

Get a copy of some Radio-Shack book, or (much better!) an ARRL annual
handbook less than twenty years old!

Capacitors IN PARALLEL "add". In series, the total is the reciprocal of the
sum of the reciprocals of each.

Resistors are exactly the opposite of that.

BUT, each capacitor MUST be rated at least as high in "working volts" as your
proposed total. If you had some reason to connect caps in series (say you
just HAD to have 50 uF, but had only two 100 uF caps, for example), you must
NOT assume the "working voltages" will simply ADD. You must put a large R in
parallel with each separate cap (say 10K) for that to approximately work.

Also, it would be best if the capacitors you "add" in parallel are the SAME
TYPE, even brand and year of manufacture, of the SAME working-voltage. Not
"absolutely" necessary, but probably much more reliable and safer for you and
the parts!

Jan Rowland, OLD [deleted] who's been there; done that.


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