power supply question

[michaewlewis]

Does anyone know if you can substitute a 5VDC/5A power supply for a 5VDC/2.8A power supply?
I lost the power supply for a netgear switch and the only alternative I have is a 5A one. I remember reading once that you can go higher with either volts or amps (the device just uses what it needs), but I can't remember which one it is.
thanks.

[michaewlewis]

Never mind. An electrician just showed up here at work and I asked him. The voltage is what needs to be the same. Amperage can be fudged. If extra amperage is available, it just doesn't use it.

[2k_dummy]

When substituting with a higher current power transformer, is a good idea to use an in-line fuse holder. Its just a safety thing. If something goes haywire it will blow the fuse rather burn something up.

[michaewlewis]

What could go wrong?

[2k_dummy]

A component in the switch could fail, resulting in a greater current draw than it is designed for. Since the transformer is designed to deliver nearly twice the current, it would continue to deliver current up to is rating. This could result in a serious over heating and ....... FIRE......