Calculate power supply for step down modules

acdcpowerpower supplyvoltage

i'd like to build a system in which there will be step down modules that get their power from an ac-dc converter.

there are 5 modules connected to the ac-dc converter (each of them steps down to 5v/5a).
4 of the modules will power a peace of hardware that needs 5v / 3a
the 5th module powers an arduino or something like this.
i'm planning to input at least 24v (32 would be possible and preferred).

now the question: what power supply do i need? 220v ?a -> 24v or 32v ?a

i've been looking for calculators or discussions on this but it is a bit specific i guess.
so if anyone can help me i'd be really thankful!

Thanks in advance!

Best Answer

I'd go for 220V AC to 24V dc because this type of power supply are likely to be more common and give you more "buy" options. Another reason is this; converting 24V to 5V using a switching regulator will give you more options on the switcher chip because there are fewer switchers capable of converting 32V to 5V than 24V to 5V. Almost without any uncertainty at all, a buck switching regulator that works at 32V will always work at 24V but not vice versa.

Even if you were to choose isolating modules for the final 5V conversion (using a flyback topology to provide isolation) 24V is a standard input voltage.