>
> Hi Byron,
>         you have not mentioned how you are getting your 12v and 5v?  I used
> inductive switching for the + rails and overwound an extra coil to get my
> -ve by stealth :)  In general I have found that inductance is not very
> critical (at least when using lm2576's :)
>
> have a look at http://members.xoom.com/andrewmuck/PSU.htm

I took a look at your page my first time through the design process. There
simply wasn't enough information to figure out the design.

As to your first question, I used a linear regulator with linear pass
transistors.

And honestly the way the datasheets specify it it seems that the inductance
is critical. Which is why I've been avoiding them like the plague.

Anyway I've decided to take a crack at the switchers using the LM2576's
for voltage inversion. Care to explain in more detail the design of the
external switch and how you determined the inductance?

Also I noticed from both the Radioshack.com and digikey catalogs that
power inductor amp ratings drop as the inductance increases. How does this
jibe with 5V @ 10A when the rated current of everything I've seen above
200 uH is 2A or less Idc Max?

I scoured the datasheets and the web for switcher information. I find it
anything but simple.

BTW how does one measure inductance anyway. I have dozens of old PC power
supplies with inductors on them. Any way to put them to use?

BAJ