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I hate the AC-to-DC transformers (wall warts) that come with my ethernet hub, USB hub, scanner, printer, speaker etc.
My computer has a 300W PSU, of which I'm only using 115W (my CPU << 1Ghz).
I propose a DC-to-DC convertor that draws power from my computer, that has programmable DC voltage/current.
It
can be programmed via InfraRed interface (i.e., PDA), or via computer software.
I know that ATX PSU is supposed to provide a little standby current for Wake-on-LAN/Ring etc., so those can be used to power my ethernet hub.
[link]
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i think i barely understand this but the word "conversion" means that something changes into another thing, how can DC convert to DC? its like a red ball converting to a red ball... |
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He means a DC voltage convertor
(similar to a transformer, but it works
with DC). |
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Even so, it's not very clear to me. Do you mean to have a DC power supply in your computer that provides additional DC power feeds to power external devices? If so, then I think it a good idea. |
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Most modern electronic devices, even though plugged into the wall (alternating current of various voltages), actually run on direct current of a different voltage. Somewhere, for each device, there is a converter package. First, a transformer that mucks with the AC to change the voltage, then a widget that clips and smooths the AC to DC (diodes, capacitors and resistors, IIRC). |
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The converter is hidden inside most computers, but it is there. Many other devices leave it outside, at the wall end of the cord: the wall wart. |
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Breadlover here is trying to say that the converter hidden inside his computer is bigger than it needs to be, and he wants to use the excess to power all his other devices so he can throw away those aggravating wall warts. He points out that the DC that would be coming out of the computer is not the same voltage and current as the DC his different devices need. |
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The trick is that direct current cannot be 'transformed' from voltage to voltage like alternating current can be. It can be fed through a resistor or something, and variously tweaked, but there will be some wasted power. I think the power losses will be less than the wasted heat of a dozen wall warts, and I think this is a good idea. |
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The computer will have to have a dozen DC outlets, and as he says, it will have to be programmable for voltage and current for each one, but that can be done. |
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More likely, someone already has made a DC power station with multiple outlets. [Later: I just Googled, can't find anything very close.] |
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