Safe Power Supply for Sharp MT90

[Eliott]

My original AC adapter for the Sharp MT90 is not working (the machine still works with batteries). The adapter output is 5 volts, 800 mA, center positive. A replacement of the original is quite expensive, and I already have a Casio adapter with the same size plug giving 5 volts, 2 Amps, with center positive. 1) Can I use this without damaging the MD recorder? 2) Can I safely use this for charging the NiMH battery in my unit, too? My understanding is that the machine will only draw the amperage it needs, so the 2 Amps (2000 mA) won't be a problem. But I want to make sure this is correct! Many thanks. - Eliott

[Azureal]

Elliot, you are correct. The unit, during normal operation, will only draw as much current as it requires. So as long as your voltage and polarity are correct and your supply's rated current is greater than or equal to the original, you should have no problem at all. I would keep an eye on the charge function of the battery the first couple of charges however. You may find that it charges faster and gets hotter but the charge circuits are designed to compensate for variations in current from the supply and will limit themselves when the temperature reaches a certain set point.

[jim.hoggarth]

For future reference, the Sony PSP mains adapter is perfectly suitable for all Sharp equipment with the 5 volt DC power input. And they come a lot cheaper than genuine Sharp chargers on eBay etc.

Jim

[Eliott]

Just what I wanted to hear! Thank you for the great info and the tip about being able to use the Sony adapter. I also found some 5 volt power supplies here:

http://www.bixnet.com/5vpower.html

- Eliott