What power adapter to choose for a network switch when the right one isn't available?

Forums › Off topic › What power adapter to choose for a network switch when the right one isn't available?

magu

Professional yak shaver
1599 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

BitSignal

Lifetime subscriber

# 68552 24-Sep-2010 13:23

I'm trying to figure out what power adapter to buy for a cheap switch I bought off TradeMe that came with no PSU, but I'm confused.

On the back of the switch it says 5VDC/2.8A. The manufacturer's website says this switch comes with a 12VDC/1A PSU, which I believe is incorrect (or maybe there are different versions).

On Surplustronics/DSE/Jaycar, I can only find 5VDC adapters with either 1A or 4A+. What is the best option if the original PSU isn't available?

"Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads." - Doc Emmet Brown

knoydart

874 posts

Ultimate Geek

Trusted

# 384033 24-Sep-2010 13:29

The 4Amp version should be fine. The switch if working correctly, it will draw the current it requires. Check the polarity of your dc in and the PSU as well, as you would not want to let the magic smoke escape from the switch.

By the way, silly question, but have you set eyes on a manual to confirm what voltage is normally supplied? Some switches I've seen have a secondary DC input for a local back up power supply.

cheers

Knoydart

magu

Professional yak shaver
1599 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

BitSignal

Lifetime subscriber

# 384036 24-Sep-2010 13:32

The switch is centre-positive.

It's a Netgear GS108, but the picture from http://www.netgear.com/products/business/switches/unmanaged-desktop-switches/GS108.aspx differs from what I have. Only one DC input available.

"Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads." - Doc Emmet Brown

magu

Professional yak shaver
1599 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

BitSignal

Lifetime subscriber

# 384037 24-Sep-2010 13:34

Ah, nevermind. The link above is for the current version. I have this one:

http://kb.netgear.com/app/products/model/a_id/2439

But there's no specs sheet anywhere.

"Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads." - Doc Emmet Brown

BlakJak

704 posts

Ultimate Geek

Trusted

# 384059 24-Sep-2010 13:58

The label on the back of the switch will no doubt be correct.
As pointed out the Amperage reflects the maximum amount that can be _drawn_ from a given power supply. If the switch is lower than the power pack, you're fine.

Its more important to ensure the plug fits and that the polarity of + and - is the same. A symbol adjacent the socket should give you this.

No signature to see here, move along...

magu

Professional yak shaver
1599 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

BitSignal

Lifetime subscriber

# 384063 24-Sep-2010 14:01

Excellent. Got 3 very similar answers (two here, one on Twitter, from my dad :D), so I'll head down to Surplustronics and get the 4A one.

Cheers for the answers!

"Roads? Where we're going, we don't need roads." - Doc Emmet Brown