400ma versus500 ma

[Tony r]

Hi can some one tell me if I can replace a 12 volt power supply that is rated at 500 ma with a 12 volt 400ma it for a battery jump starter pack

 

[davelectronic]

Current drop

Hi Tony R welcome to the forum. under powering electronic items is possible, but very much dependent on the application, its never a good idea to drop power below rated levels, this strains the circuit, you should aim to power any item with in safe power levels, some under powering will degrade and destroy some components, try and stick to the rated power levels needed, but and not loosely some apps can be under powered, depending on the applications.
Dave.

 

[Tony r]

Thanks dave I'll take you advice I wasn't sure how much 100 ma diff would make but I won't risk anything for the sake of a few dollars for a new power supply. Much appreciated

 

[davenn]

Hi Tony,

In this case you are mostly putting the power pack under stress
if it cant supply the current required by the circuit its supplying, its going to get VERY hot trying

cheers
Dave

 

[Tony r]

Thanks Dave much appreciated