How can I convert something that runs on 3 D cell batteries to run on AC current/from the wall?

Question

Detailed instructions would be great...

would i be splitting the ac adapter wire? and be connecting it where? neg to neg and pos to pos?

Answer 1

3 D cell batteries usually give 4.5 volts
Use any eliminator/convertor that converts 110/220 v ac to Dc of required value.
You can get it in any of the electrical stores.
Condition being your material should have a receiving socket which usually is provided as an inbuilt by the manufacturer.

Answer 2

Since the item is powered by 3 D-Cell batteries, it is a DC machine. Three batteries will produce between 3.6 and 4.5 volts (if used in series), or 1.2 to 1.5 VDC if connected in parallel. So you first need to determine if they are placed end to end (series) or side by side (all pointing in the same direction, but not connected end to end). Then you're going to need either a DC power supply or an AC rectifier (which is really what a power supply is in the first place). Once you get a power supply that provides the correct voltage, connect the positive lead to the "plus" side of where the batteries would go, and the negative lead to where the "minus" or "negative" side of the battery would go. Be careful not to over or underpower your circuit. If you're using 3 batteries in series, you should be able to use any power supply that provides between 4 and 5 VDC. If you look at the power supply you'll see a tiny picture of what looks like a "C" with a dot in the middle, with an indication of which is positive and which is negative (if your power supply has a "plug" on the end of it). This refers to the polarity of the plug and you'll need to check which wire feeds which part of the plug to make sure you connect the right leads to the right side. The bottom line will be if it doesn't work, try reversing the leads.

Answer 3

You can buy an adaptor that has various settings for dc voltages. Your negative side of the wire will go where your negative battery terminal was (the spring end) & the pos. side will go to where the (+) end of your battery went.
You could also build your own power supply, but will need to know how to hook your secondary of the transformer to a bridge rectifer, filter it & contain it safely.
As long as what you are running won't draw too much current, then most adaptors should work fine, however, you may want to pick one than is rated for high milliamps or amps.

Answer 4

There are a number of inexpensive devices that will produce 4.5 volts at the required current levels, typically in a power brick configuration.

If you decide to use an external supply, you need to take a few safety precautions. Take care that it won't feed current into battery cells that are installed, or remove the cells and make it impossible for someone else to install others. It is also a good idea to use a UL listed device for this supply, or whatever equivalent safety agency your country happens to be. The designs for such devices have been checked out for freedom from electrical shock and fire hazards.

Answer 5

A wall wort is your best option, you can also build a rectifier circuit. You cannot "use a diode" as this will only produce a signal that looks like the top half of a sin wave...which your electronics will not work off of.

Answer 6

you need a step down transformer in various voltages ie 110VAc / 1.5V.3.0 V,4.5V.6.0V, --- 12.volts.(If you need variable voltages , for selecting the required voltage a Rotary sector switch required )You have to connect a bridge rectifier diode to convert AC to DC with suitable filter for getting pure DC.Standard power supply power packs are available in market for your requirement.so it will solve your needs.You want to make yourself kits in spares will be available in Electronics market with suitable spares, drawings & enclosures.If you need further more details Pm me.

Answer 7

U will need a diode there to convert AC to DC. and it should about 4.5 volts . U need to put in a small fuse so U want burn every thing up.

Answer 8

use a power inverter. they are pretty cheap and can be acquired at any walmart.