I have a box of miscellaneous power supplies / AC adapters / transformers / "bricks" which have no information on them about what they are for. I am trying to match them up to the devices they belong with, including computer items, drives, cameras, and who-knows-what else. Some of the devices may have already been discarded.
Sometimes I have been successful typing the model numbers into Google, but usually I just get nothing, or maybe a list of places to BUY the adapter. With some, I am told they are for a camera, for example, and that narrows down my search.
Does anyone have tips for identifying them? Wouldn't it be nice if there was a website with some sort of cross-matched list for these things?
Examples:
- Sino-American Model A30980 AC Adapter Class 2 Transformer;
- Ambico 45-8820 Class 2 Transformer Model 35 – 7.5 – 300C;
- AC Adapter (No Brand) Class 2 Transformer Model No. DBU120020
Best Answer
Rarely does the manufacturer of a given device also manufacture its AC adapter. Therefore you really have nothing to go by except matching:
Voltage: The adapter must provide the DC (or AC) voltage required by the device; no more, no less. (Or if you have to, ideally no more than ±10%.)
Polarity: The tip and sleeve (inside and outside of connector) must be the correct polarity. This is usually indicated by the symbol:
Current: The adapter must provide at least the current required by the device.
Power jack dimensions: DC barrel jacks are not all the same dimension. If you find a suitable adapter for a given device, you might find the plug doesn't fit the jack.
Things that will hinder your efforts:
Please read Olin's question and answer about selecting the correct power supply for more information.