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 http://www.radioshack.comhttp://www....goryId=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/in...uctId=39644771

here's a smaller one.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/in...ductId=3875403

should be strong enough to power your GPS charger.

and here's one with an in-between size.

http://www.radioshack.com/product/in...ductId=3875404


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