Can I use a 12V power adapter for a 9V?

Question

is this for real or are the manufacturers being conservative?

thanks

Answer 1

This is strongly dependant on the device, some higher drain devices can handle a few volts above rating in fact they are designed to handle a slightly higher voltage based on the fact that most power adapters are unregulated and produce higher voltages anyway. Current draw and polarity are much more important factors then voltage when factoring in such a small variance, it is probably safer to just use the proper voltage components such as LED's and FET's can be very voltage sensitive, a 12 volt supply will actually cause a 3 volt max forward bias LED to explode violently.

Answer 2

If the device says it takes 9VDC then you had better not plug in a third more. If it says 9VAC, then you might have a chance. More than likely it has to match.