Variable DC Power Supply - USB-C

I had a benchtop DC power supply that recently died on me. I had two paths I could take: buy a new one or build one.

I decided to build something that was smaller and more portable - as I wanted something I could quickly transfer from my garage shop to my office.

Here are all the parts you’ll need:

1. Variable power supply: https://amzn.to/3K4xblM
2. Banana plugs: https://amzn.to/47Mar3N
3. 16ga Cable: https://amzn.to/4n6bcJL
4. Ring terminal connectors: https://amzn.to/4pQWSH4
5. USB-C PD Adapter: https://amzn.to/465vuNA
6. USB-C 100w Plug: https://amzn.to/4n7b4dd
7. Screws: https://amzn.to/3IpvheV
8. Foot pads: https://amzn.to/42zZEWS

Here are the tools you’ll need:

1. 3d printer: https://amzn.to/4mjKX1q
2. Filament - https://amzn.to/3d3kRBN
3. Tool kit: https://amzn.to/4mfbBZ7
4. Wire stripper: https://amzn.to/4nDx3IC

These are amazon affiliate links. I may make a small commission from your purchase (at no cost to you!).

Print one of each part. I printed in the orientation shown.

1. Set the switches as shown in the image - this will allow 20vdc to be sent
2. 1 - On
3. 2 - Off
4. 3 - On
5. Bolt the USB-C Clamp down to hold the PD board in place.
6. Use M2 x 8mm screw

1. Approx 4” length (2x) of two conductor 16ga cable
2. Wire 1: Attach ring terminals to one side. The opposite end goes to PS output
3. Wire 2: Attach one side to the USB-C adapter. The opposite end goes to PS input.
4. This is what the completed harness will look like
5. Check the underside of the USB-C board for polarity - match these with the polarity of the power supply screw terminal (green).

Insert the banana plugs into the housing, then install the clamping piece, washer and nut.

Put ring terminals onto banana plugs, tighten nuts.

Use M2 x 8mm screws

Snap the power supply into the front cover.

After it's installed, plug the green screw terminal into back of power supply

Use M2 x 8mm screws

Put foot pads into the recesses in the base.

The pads I used from the kit are about 1/2" in diameter.

You made it, congrats!

I built a semi-customized case to hold everything. I didn't like the dividers that came with the case, so I designed a divider insert (see the 3d print).

Organizer case: https://amzn.to/46a1NLe

I hope you enjoyed this Instructable! Let me know if anything is unclear and I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have.