I did just recently post a power supply related question; I thought about adding this to that thread but I figure it's a different enough question to warrant its own thread.
When using a DC bench power supply with multiple outputs that can be connected in series, I understand it's possible to have a split rail supply. The power supply I'm looking at (Mastech HY3005D-3) allows 0-30V on each output, but the specs don't mention being able to go to negative voltages. Does this mean if I use it as a split rail supply, I will have to choose a positive voltage as my reference ground? For example, if I need -15V, 0V, and 15V I'd have to choose 15V above earth ground as my reference ground? If I'm right, what are the implications for connecting an oscilloscope to such a circuit? Since the scope is connected to earth ground, wouldn't that create 15V of potential across its ground lead? Do I need a supply with a different feature set if I want to be able to get both positive and negative voltages out of it, with the ground being tied to earth ground? Thanks!
When using a DC bench power supply with multiple outputs that can be connected in series, I understand it's possible to have a split rail supply. The power supply I'm looking at (Mastech HY3005D-3) allows 0-30V on each output, but the specs don't mention being able to go to negative voltages. Does this mean if I use it as a split rail supply, I will have to choose a positive voltage as my reference ground? For example, if I need -15V, 0V, and 15V I'd have to choose 15V above earth ground as my reference ground? If I'm right, what are the implications for connecting an oscilloscope to such a circuit? Since the scope is connected to earth ground, wouldn't that create 15V of potential across its ground lead? Do I need a supply with a different feature set if I want to be able to get both positive and negative voltages out of it, with the ground being tied to earth ground? Thanks!
