What is a positive power supply?

For further information contact your local STMicroelectronics sales office. A positive power supply is a supply where its reference level (VSS) is connected to the mains (line or neutral). The VDD level is then above the mains terminal as shown in Figure 1. If the supply is a 5 V power supply, then VDD is 5 V above the mains reference.

Why is positive polarity important when buying a DC supply?

Positive polarity, negative polarity, reversible polarity; why is this important when I purchase a supply? DC sources are polarity specific. Using earth ground as a reference point, the output of a DC supply can be "X" number of volts above ground (positive polarity) or "X" number of volts below ground (negative polarity).

Do I need a polarity specific DC high voltage source?

Applications that require DC high voltage sources are polarity specific, so the polarity required must be specified at the time of order. Spellman’s High Voltage Power Supply Catalog features a complete listing of all standard Modules, X-Ray Sources, Rack, X-Ray Generator and Application Specific Products.

What polarity does a DC supply have?

Using earth ground as a reference point, the output of a DC supply can be "X" number of volts above ground (positive polarity) or "X" number of volts below ground (negative polarity). Another way of explaining this, is as a positive supply can source (provide) current, while a negative supply can sink (accept) current.

What is the difference between a positive and a negative supply?

Another way of explaining this, is as a positive supply can source (provide) current, while a negative supply can sink (accept) current. Applications that require DC high voltage sources are polarity specific, so the polarity required must be specified at the time of order.