From: jasen@xnet.co.nz   
      
   On 2010-01-09, Mike  wrote:   
   > This is interesting but I, too, know just enough to be dangerous...   
   >   
   > How does one tell the difference between a regulated and unregulated   
   > supply? Do they say or do you just have to measure the unloaded voltage   
   > and guess?   
      
   regulated ones will be labeled as such on the packaging.   
      
   > Is there an inexpensive part from Radio Shack that can 'fix' an   
   > unregulated supply? I've heard the term 'voltage regulators' but don't   
   > know much more than that.   
      
   one such part is LM7812 (not sure what stock number RS uses on that) but you'll   
   probably also need a heatsink, etc and also need more supply voltage ...   
      
   > If not, where is a good place to find a rugulated 12V supply like you   
   > mentioned?   
      
   seing as you mentioned radio shack.   
   (try www.radioshack.comhttp://www.radioshack.com/family/index.js   
   ?categoryId=2818335 )   
      
   here's a big one, massive overkill (good for automotive-powered appliances   
   upto 200W)   
   things like car sterios, portble refrigerators, coffee heaters, and spotlights.   
      
     http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=39644771   
      
   here's a smaller one.   
      
     http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3875403   
      
   should be strong enough to power your GPS charger.   
      
   and here's one with an in-between size.   
      
     http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3875404   
      
      
   --- news://freenews.netfront.net/ - complaints: news@netfront.net ---   
      
   --- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05   
    * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)