Q: Single ATX Power Supply as Multi-Voltage, Multi-Device centralized DC power bank ?

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Allan74

Member
May 15, 2019
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Could a standard ATX power supply be used to power multiple devices simultaneously ?
+5V to multiple SBC/RasbPi
+12V to Misc Router/Firewall/Desktop Switch (all originally 12V DC units of course)
+12V to Fans, lights etc.

Using an ATX 'breakout' board such as this:
61VIYYeXEvL._AC_SL1024_.jpg

Does this sound a little too 'Mickey Mouse' ?
I simply want to cut down on all of the SQUARE power adapters that always seem to take up unreasonable space on a PDU (depending on socket spacing).
I am just looking for a way to clean up my rack.
 

adgenet

Member
Apr 12, 2016
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8
No reason why it wouldn't work, but even an ATX power supply is pretty bulky, even more so if you have a breakout board like that.
A normal enclosed power supply is much more compact and will probably suit you better.
For example: MEAN WELL Switching Power Supply Manufacturer
Even if you already have ATX power supplies lying around, I would still reconsider due to the bulkiness of such a setup.
 

paf

New Member
Sep 21, 2020
24
5
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Portugal
Those adapters like the one you posted are very "cheaply" made. For instance, it seems the connectors accept "banana" plugs but they don't!
The top part only works as a "nut handle"...

A good "server grade" (not "gamer grade") PSU will be cheaper (recycled) than a Meanwell PSU, but it will have a fan , and it can supply an big, Big, BIG CURRENT, in the case of a short circuit.

Meanwell PSUs have a very good reputation.

There are always trade-offs.
 

T_Minus

Build. Break. Fix. Repeat
Feb 15, 2015
7,625
2,043
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They make large wall warts with multiple outputs. I have one that has 4x outputs for my audio gear from 1 large wall adapter.
Maybe this is the best way to go?
 

Allan74

Member
May 15, 2019
132
13
18
Not that I am a big proponent of the Brand Name (from my car audio days, Pyle = garbage).....but I think I found a better way for Rackmount RaspberryPi power consolidation:

6108pZGWwwL._AC_SL1500_.jpg

I will continue looking for something from a more reputable Brand, but I think this (for the 5V) is the way for me.