National makes a simple switcher that may fit the bill, However if you want
power and good clean voltage then try SGS Thomas. They make several
switchers that are easy and reasonable.
Most of the part are off the shelf  for both of them. they will even give
you the correct values.
I also believe that national makes a 5A LM317 series that is in a T-3
package. You may also try a simple series regulator using an NPN transistor
with a zener regulator. (very simple)

Gordon Varney

----- Original Message -----
From: Roland Andrag <randrag@ICON.CO.ZA>
To: <PICLIST@MITVMA.MIT.EDU>
Sent: Friday, May 14, 1999 12:34 PM
Subject: [OT] High Power Voltage Regulator


> Hello Everyone..
>
> I have always been served well by the simple 78lxx regulators and if not
> that then the straight 78xx, but now have to regulate a bit of a larger
> current - Basically I need to supply a circuit drawing around 3 to 5 A at
5
> V from a 24 V supply.  I would not have a problem using a larger linear
> regulator with a larger heatsink (I don't have to conserve energy - got
> plenty), except I can't seem to find one offhand..
>
> Do I have to start looking at a switching circuit or transistor driven
> circuit, or is there a simpler (like 1 chip?) approach?
>
> Thanks
>  Roland