EP 45 - Power Quality & Sensitive Electronics

In this video I describe the basic issues that can arise with power quality, and I evaluate their effects on modern switched-mode power supplies. In the process, I give an overview of how switched-mode power supplies work, and I determine whether or not a traditional (non-inverter) portable generator is safe to use with switched-mode power supplies. In the process, I test an older computer power supply with a very dirty power output from a generator, and I interpret the results.

Edit: In the video I mentioned that the capacitor plague affected primarily Chinese capacitors. This is not the case; it was actually sever unknown brands of Taiwanese capacitors that were affected by the plague.

Keep in mind that my experiment with the generator is purely anecdotal and does not necessarily indicate that the use of sensitive equipment with dirty power sources will be safe in all cases. My analysis of switched-mode power supplies and the effects that dirty power may have on them is based on my own experience and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Although most power supplies should work with non-inverter generators, if you do choose to use them with one, you do so at your own risk.

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