External power supplies are separate units that convert mains electricity into the low-voltage DC a device needs. They suit anyone replacing a lost adapter or powering equipment such as routers, displays, LED lighting or industrial electronics.
Our range of over 40 models includes products from MEAN WELL, DEHNER, CoreParts and Synergy21, among others.
How to choose an external power supply
Output voltage. The voltage must match the rating printed on your original adapter or on the device itself. Many laptops use a figure around 19 V, while routers and LED strips often run on 12 V or 24 V, so check the label rather than guessing.
Power and current. The wattage (or amps) of the new unit must be equal to or higher than the original. A device only draws what it needs, so a higher rating is safe, but a lower one will overheat or shut down under load. For equipment that runs around the clock, leave some headroom instead of using the unit at its limit.
Connector and polarity. A barrel plug must fit the socket in both outer and inner diameter, and the centre-pin polarity must match the original. Industrial units usually end in screw terminals instead of a plug, which means the cable has to be wired by someone who knows what they are doing.
Form and mounting. A desktop-style adapter sits on a desk or behind a screen and plugs straight into a socket. Enclosed or rail-mounted industrial supplies are built to be fixed inside a cabinet or enclosure. Pick the form that matches where the unit will actually live.
Protection and certification. Look for overload, short-circuit and overvoltage protection, and for recognised safety markings. These matter most when the supply feeds expensive equipment or runs unattended.
Brands we carry
- MEAN WELL: a Taiwanese manufacturer known for industrial and LED power supplies, and the largest brand group in this category in our range.
- PULS: a German maker best known for DIN-rail power supplies used in control cabinets and automation.
Also in our range: DEHNER, CoreParts, Synergy21, Teltonika, Qoltec, EDAC and iiyama.
External power supplies: frequently asked questions
What voltage power supply do I need?
You need the same voltage as the original adapter, which is printed on its label or next to the power socket of the device. A small mismatch can damage the equipment, so do not choose a unit that is close but not equal. Current and wattage can be higher than the original, but voltage should match.
Can I use a higher-wattage power supply than the original?
Yes, as long as the voltage is the same and the connector and polarity match. The device draws only the current it requires, so a higher-rated unit simply runs with more spare capacity. A lower-rated unit is the one to avoid.
What is the difference between an industrial power supply and a laptop adapter?
An industrial power supply is usually designed to be mounted in a cabinet and connected with screw terminals, while a laptop adapter comes with a cable and a plug ready to use. Industrial units are often chosen for continuous operation in control or lighting installations. For a laptop on a desk, a plug-in adapter with the correct connector is the simpler option.
Is it safe to use a non-original power supply?
It can be, provided the voltage, power rating and connector match your device and the unit has proper protection and safety markings. Check that the polarity is correct before connecting. Avoid units with no clear ratings printed on them.
