I have built a variable power supply, but in the building process I have found that my 36 volt ac transformer after bridge rectification with the smoothing capacitor equates to 56 volts. Not having a degree in electrical engineering I had to research this effect. (Peak voltage capitor charging). In a nutshell I have to use a 24volt transformer to stay within the voltage levels of my circuit. Is there a way to keep the 36v transformer at 36 volts even after a smoothing capacitor? I have found that when the circuit is at full load it drops down to the correct transformer output voltage, but I assume this is because the cap maintains the load voltage. I do now know about the RMS formula for transformers VOLTS X 1.414 = RMS voltage.