Getting Started with HAM Radio? Here’s How to Pick the Right Power Supply
Whether you’re diving into the world of amateur radio for the first time or upgrading your ham radio base station, having the right power supply is essential for safe, reliable, and clear communication. Radios used in radio communication, two-way radio, or land mobile radio (LMR) systems require stable DC power to perform at their best.
To power your setup, you’ll need a dependable AC-DC power supply that converts household AC power from your wall outlet into clean, consistent DC power. Depending on your needs, this could be a desktop power supply for your ham shack or a battery backup for added reliability.
Let’s explore the main types of power supplies and why Samlex’s proven designs have earned the trust of radio professionals worldwide.
Linear vs. Switching Power Supplies: What’s the Difference?
When choosing a power supply for your radio setup, you’ll encounter two main types: linear and switching (or switch-mode) power supplies.
Linear Power Supplies
Linear power supplies use a transformer and series-pass transistor to regulate voltage, dissipating excess energy as heat. They’ve been around for decades and are known for providing exceptionally clean DC output with low noise, ideal for sensitive radio equipment.
Pros:
- Very low electrical noise and ripple
- Simple, durable design
- Great for noise-sensitive audio or analog gear
Cons:
- Larger and much heavier (not portable)
- Less efficient (energy lost as heat)
- Typically more expensive
Switching Power Supplies
Switching power supplies (SMPS) use high-frequency switching circuits to convert AC to DC more efficiently. They’re compact, lightweight, and more energy efficient—making them the preferred choice for most modern ham radio base stations and LMR systems.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- High efficiency and lower power loss
- More affordable and widely available
- Ideal for both mobile and base station setups
Cons:
- May produce slight RF noise if not properly filtered
Thanks to decades of innovation, Samlex switch-mode power supplies use advanced RFI suppression to deliver clean, stable DC power for radio communications.
Why Radio Professionals Trust Samlex Switching Power Supplies
For over 30 years, Samlex America has been a trusted leader in AC-DC power conversion, providing reliable switching power supplies for the communication industry including public safety, telecom, transportation, fleet, and government networks.
Samlex power supplies are engineered for dependable performance, clean power output, and peace of mind, whether you’re powering an amateur radio base station or a two-way radio network for business communications.
Samlex offers two main switch-mode power supply series to meet the needs of every operator:
The SEC Series: Field-Tested and Trusted for Decades
- Power supplies available in 10A, 23A, or 30A*
- Analog meters available on the 30A model (SEC-1235M)
- Input voltage configurable for 120 VAC or 240 VAC (internal jumper/fuse change)
- Switch-mode technology for efficiency and performance
- Filtered output to suppress RFI and provide clean DC power
- Certified to UL standards in Canada and the USA
- 3 year warranty
*10A, 23A & BBM models also available for 230 VAC input.
The SEC Series power supply is a rugged, field-proven choice for professionals who depend on their equipment every day.
SEC-1212P | SEC-1223 | SEC-1235 | SEC-1235-M |
The P Series: Premium Features & Technologically Advanced
- Power supplies available in 11A, 23A, or 30A
- Backlit dual analog meters included on 30A model (SEC-1235P-M)
- Universal AC Input: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, senses AC voltage and adjusts automatically, no jumper change required.
- Advanced switch-mode technology with high reliability and efficiency
- Active Power Factor Correction (PFC) for reduced harmonic distortion and higher efficiency.
- Complies with Minimum Energy Performance Standards for external power supplies
- Innovative circuitry minimizes voltage ripple and RFI
- Certified to UL and CE standards for global use
- 3 year warranty
The P Series power supply is the go-to choice for users seeking top-tier performance, energy efficiency, and global compatibility.
SEC-1212P | SEC-1223P | SEC-1235P | SEC-1235P-M |
View our power supply comparison chart
Before You Buy: HAM Radio Power Supply Checklist
Before purchasing your power supply, take a few minutes to review these key considerations to make sure you’re getting the best match for your radio setup, and setting yourself up for future expansion.
✔ Fits your budget
There are many options to choose from – balance price with the performance features that matter most to your setup.
✔ Meets your radio’s amperage requirements
Always check your radio’s user manual for its power draw in amps. Choose a power supply rated for at least 25–30% higher current than your radio requires. Running too close to the limit can lead to voltage drops or overheating during transmission.
✔ Meets your functional needs
Consider what type of power connectors you prefer; round terminals, binding posts, Anderson Powerpole, or a combination. The right connector setup can make installation smoother and more secure.
✔ Allows for future growth
Nearly every ham operator ends up adding more gear over time — external speakers, amplifiers, tuners, or meters. Choosing a power supply with extra capacity now will save you frustration (and another purchase) later.
✔ Includes meters (if you want them)
Models with amp and volt meters let you monitor power usage and system health in real time. It’s not essential, but many operators find it’s a worthwhile upgrade for better visibility and control.
Ready To Set Up Your HAM Radio Base Station?
Once you’ve selected the right 12V DC power supply, it’s time to plan your base station setup. In addition to your radio transceiver, you’ll need reliable cabling, antennas, and potentially a Samlex base station cabinet to organize and protect your equipment.
Samlex base station cabinets are compatible with leading mobile/base radios, including models from Motorola, Kenwood, Icom, Tait, Yaesu, Vertex, Hytera, and Harris. See our list of radio cabinets with compatible radio models.
We are always looking to expand our radio cabinet offerings to accommodate new and popular radios. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, let us know!
Power Your Radio With Confidence
From ham radio operators to mission-critical LMR professionals, Samlex has been powering communication systems around the world for over three decades. Whether you need a compact desktop power supply for your amateur radio base station or a rack mount power supply for a professional setup, you can count on Samlex for reliability, efficiency, and performance.
Contact Samlex America to find the right ac-dc power supply for your radio communications today.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding radio power supplies.
What size power supply do I need for my radio?
Check your radio’s power consumption in amps (A). Choose a power supply that can handle at least 25–30% more current than your radio’s maximum draw for reliable performance.
Are Samlex power supplies compatible with both 12V and 24V systems?
Samlex manufactures dedicated models for each voltage range to ensure maximum performance and safety. Select a 12V DC power supply for standard radio communications equipment or a 24V DC model for higher-voltage applications.
Are Samlex power supplies quiet enough for indoor use?
Absolutely. Samlex designs all models to minimize fan noise and RFI, making them ideal for use in offices, workshops, and base stations.
