A power brick is a standalone AC-to-DC converter that takes mains voltage and steps it down to a safe, regulated DC voltage for electronics like laptops or monitors. Moving the power supply outside the main chassis reduces internal heat, saves space, and isolates sensitive circuits from electromagnetic interference. They usually feature an AC input cord on one side and a DC barrel jack on the other.
Grab a 19-volt power brick from the bin so we can test this motherboard.
Also heard as
- brick
- wall wart
- AC adapter
Related terms
PSU
A power supply unit converts utility AC power into the regulated DC voltages required by a system.
SMPS
A switched-mode power supply uses high-frequency switching to efficiently convert electrical power.
Power electronics
The branch of electrical engineering focused on the conversion and control of electric power.