I have been learning power supply circuits used in various application. I think that learning power supply is crucial because this is required in any electronics circuits. I had many older PC ATX PSU(Power Supply Unit) and so I studied it and took components out of the PSU motherboard. Some of the components are PC817 optocoupler, 2SC13001, TL431 adjustable voltage regulator, 2SC1815 small signal BJT transistor and SBL3040PT schottky barrier rectifier.
The SBL3040PT is a Schottky barrier rectifier commonly found in the secondary side of PC power supply units (PSUs). In a typical ATX PSU, it is used in the high-current, low-voltage output rails such as the +5V or +3.3V lines because of its ability to handle high forward currents (up to 30A) and low forward voltage drop, which improves efficiency and reduces heat dissipation. Its fast switching characteristics also make it suitable for the high-frequency operation of modern switching power supplies.
When salvaged from an old or faulty PC PSU, the SBL3040PT can still be very useful for hobbyists and DIY electronics projects. Because it is a dual Schottky diode in a TO-247 package, it can be repurposed in low-voltage, high-current DC power supplies, battery chargers, and solar charge controllers. It is especially helpful in situations where you want to minimize power losses, such as in low-voltage DC converters or protection circuits for batteries, where every bit of efficiency matters.
DIY enthusiasts also use the SBL3040PT in audio amplifier projects, automotive power supplies, and inverter circuits where robust rectification with minimal voltage drop is required. Its ruggedness and current handling capability make it ideal for building reliable power circuits. Instead of buying new Schottky diodes, salvaging this component not only reduces project costs but also promotes recycling of useful parts from discarded electronics.
