How to Build a Bench-Top Power Supply

Step 5 Solder Stuff

Now your ready to solder the components on. Start with the copper traces. Then, the resistor, switch, potentiometer, capacitors, diodes, and finally the regulator (in that order.) It's easier to solder the regulator with the heat sink already installed. Plus, it will protect the component from the heat of the soldering iron. Don't solder the wall wart or the terminal strip yet. Remember that polarity needs to be noted for components like the electrolytic capacitor (C2) and the voltage regulator. Don't solder them in backwards!