Using both switch-mode and linear supplies in one application.

[medical-nerd]

Hiya

Are there any problems that I should be aware of if I use both switch-mode and linear power supplies for one application or one board?

I have a low noise switch mode supply for +/-12V 2A +/-5v 8A but a few items need in addition +24V or -24V which will be up to 1.5A for all of them - for which I plan to use a simple linear supply not supplied from the existing switch-mode.
I'm using salvaged microwave/rf modules from the 80's that need the multiple voltages and don't want to release the magic smoke.

Do I just connect all the 0V of the supplies? Can I assume that they will be at the same potential?

Cheers


Steve

[medical-nerd]

Many thanks evb149 for your comprehensive reply.

They are a mixture of circuit blocks on pcbs and separate shielded boxed modules.

I like the idea of using multiple regulators to reduce the current in each - I certainly have enough to do this and will.

I will work through your links this evening.

Cheers

Steve