Here’s a variable voltage power supply circuit using a LM338 adjustable 3 terminal regulator to supply a current of up to 5A over a variable output voltage of 2V to 25V DC. It will come in handy to power up many electronic circuits when you are assembling or building any electronic devices. The schematic and parts list are designed for a power supply input of 240VAC. Change the ratings of the components if 110V AC power supply input is required.
The mains input is applied to the circuit through fuse F1. The fuse will blow if a current greater than 8A is applied to the system. Varistor V1 is used to clamp down any surge of voltage from the mains to protect the components from breakdown. Transformer T1 is used to step down the incoming voltage to 24V AC where it is rectified by the four diodes D1, D2, D3 and D4. Electrolytic capacitor E1 is used to smoothen the ripple of the rectified DC voltage.
Diodes D5 and D6 are used as a protection devices to prevent capacitors E2 and E3 from discharging through low current points into the regulator. Capacitor C1 is used to bypass high frequency component from the circuit. Ensure that a large heat sink is mounted to LM338 to transfer the heat generated to the atmosphere.
Source: 2- 25V 5A Power Supply LM338
