13.8V 30A DC Power Supply - Regulated Compact Bench Unit

In this review the 13.8V 30A DC power supply is evaluated as a practical bench power source for radio hobbyists and anyone who needs a steady high-current 13.8V rail. The bottom line: it is a compact, reliably regulated AC-to-DC converter that suits CB, Ham, GMRS and scanner use where continuous 13.8V at up to 30A is required. The review highlights the unit's simple controls, screw-type main terminals, and safety protections as the single biggest reasons to consider it for home radio setups or bench testing.

Key Features

• AC-to-DC conversion: Provides a fixed DC 13.8V output so radios and DC equipment receive a stable supply without needing vehicle power.
• High current main terminals: Screw-type main terminals accept cable lugs and support up to 30A for powering higher-draw transceivers and amplifiers.
• Auxiliary front outputs: A front pair of safety terminals delivers an easy-access 10A output for smaller accessories or quick testing.
• Thermal protection and fan: Built-in fan and side vents kick in near 55C to prevent overheating during sustained loads, keeping the unit running safely.
• Safety protections: The supply includes overheat, short and amperage surge protection to help protect connected equipment and the operator.
• Compact footprint: At about 8.66 x 5.91 x 2.76 in the metal chassis is small enough for tabletop placement in a home shack or workshop.

Who It's For

This power supply is aimed at amateur radio operators, CB and scanner users, and anyone who wants a stable 13.8V DC source for bench work. It is especially useful when you need continuous current near 30A for transceivers, mobile radios, or for powering multiple devices through the main and auxiliary outputs.

It is less well suited to users who require adjustable voltage ranges, laboratory-style readouts, or ultra-quiet operation for noise-sensitive audio work; those buyers should look for an adjustable bench supply with finer control and graphical metering.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Dependable fixed 13.8V regulation that matches common radio and mobile equipment needs.
• High-current screw terminals and included cable lugs make installation straightforward for heavy-gauge wiring.
• Built-in cooling fan and thermal cutoffs help maintain safe operation under load.
• Compact size and included voltage test pen and accessories add convenience for bench use.

Cons

• Output is fixed at 13.8V, so it lacks adjustable voltage for projects needing other rails.
• The unit has basic status indication only, without detailed meters for current or voltage readback.

Specifications

Model	iE1330
Output Voltage	DC 13.8V fixed
Maximum Output Current	30A main, 10A auxiliary
Input	110VAC +/-10% 60Hz
Protections	Overheat, short circuit, amperage surge
Dimensions	8.66 x 5.91 x 2.76 in
Included Accessories	Banana plug pair, 2 cable lugs, voltage test pen, power cord, user manual

Our Verdict

The 13.8V 30A DC power supply is a solid value for radio amateurs and bench users who need a robust, fixed 13.8V source with high current capacity. Its combination of screw-type main terminals, auxiliary front outputs, and built-in safety features makes it practical for powering transceivers and mobile equipment; buyers who need adjustable voltage or panel meters should consider a different model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this unit run a transceiver continuously?
The supply is designed for continuous operation and uses a cooling fan that activates near 55C to prevent overheating, making it appropriate for sustained radio use.

How do I connect my radio to the supply?
Use the supplied cable lugs on the screw-type main terminals for the 30A output; for smaller devices use the front safety terminals rated to 10A.

What protections are included?
The unit includes overheat, short circuit and amperage surge protection to help protect both the supply and connected equipment.