If I connect 8 AA batteries up to a 5v regulator, could I use that to replace a 5v DC mains power adaptor?

Question

If I connect 8 AA batteries up to a 5v regulator, could I use that to replace a 5v DC mains power adaptor?

Answer 1

sure

Answer 2

probably,

but what about peak current?

max. continuous current?

they might run out rather quick!

Answer 3

depends on the regulator and the demand.

your AA batteries have a finite current capacity in mAh. Your 5V power supply has a maximum capacity at 5VDC and the device to be powered has a power demand.

IF the power demand is less than the maximum capacity of the battery, then it will work. If you keep the demand less than 1A, you can use a regulator IC in a TO-220 package, if you can keep it under 500mA, you can use a regulator IC in a TO-92 package. In either case, you need input and output caps to keep oscillations at a minimum, and you need to have a higher input voltage compaired to the output voltage to maintain regulation.

8AA's would be excessive, it would work, but no gain, you should use 4AA (6v) and regulate down to 5V, or parallel the 4AA to 8AA for more current capacity, but you are still limited by the regulator device.

Answer 4

Yes, but put two sets of 4 (in series) in parallel, giving a nominal input voltage of six volts and then feed this into the regulator. Should improve the efficiency, but I agree with what the other two above have said.  

Answer 5

Yes, but it won't be very efficient. Useful if you are away from mains power in an emergency though. Expensive on batteries otherwise