To become a professional tattoo artist, you need the right tools, patterns that meet client requests, and proper machine adjustment. We've already discussed the types and characteristics of tattoo machines, but this time, we'll focus on power supplies.
Types of Power Supplies
AC/DC Power Supplies
DC/AC power supplies were often found in artists' studios or on benches, earning them the nickname "bench power supplies." They typically look like small boxes with several connection ports. DC power supplies provide power by delivering DC voltage to the circuit board or electronic product being tested.
・This mainly functions as a current conversion device, allowing you to change the voltage of the output current. This type is relatively inexpensive, making it an accessible option for beginners without a significant financial burden.
・A key feature of these large power supplies is their high compatibility. If you can connect pedals and tattoo machines from different manufacturers, you can use them simultaneously. If you have the knowledge, you can even modify them yourself. This type allows for things that are difficult to achieve with other power supplies.
・The drawbacks include their size, which can take up space in the workplace, and the difficulty of moving them due to the dragging wires, meaning they must be plugged into an outlet to operate. While suitable for studio work, the considerable noise they produce can also be a concern.
Wireless Power Supplies
Wireless power supplies are currently popular and gaining traction. They are integrated power sources composed of multiple lithium batteries. They connect to the machine via connectors like RCA. These power supplies are small in size and primarily used with wireless tattoo pens.
・Because lithium batteries have a large storage capacity, wireless batteries are generally very small. They typically have a capacity of 800 to 1000mAh, allowing for 2 to 3 hours of continuous operation. Furthermore, wireless tattoo machines often come with two batteries, so you can use one while the other charges.
・They are suitable for individual tattoo artists. Many tattoo artists today do not have a physical studio. They travel to clients' homes with their tattooing equipment to create their work. For them, wireless tattoo pens are convenient tools that allow them to work without power shortages. The ability to charge them in a car or with a mobile power bank is also helpful.
・Wireless power supplies can provide a more stable output and significantly reduce the vibration of the tattoo pen, thereby easing the strain on the hand.
How to Choose the Right Power Supply?
Choose by Required Voltage
Like all tattooing equipment, power supplies are constantly evolving. Power supplies can generally be categorized by their voltage regulation range. Common ones have a voltage of 8-12 volts, low-voltage ones rarely go below 3 volts, and portable power supplies can have up to 20 volts. Simply put, the voltage difference primarily affects the machine's strength. The higher the voltage, the deeper the tattoo needle penetrates and the faster the frequency.
Voltage Display Formats
Tattoo machine power supplies come with two display modes: analog and digital. You can choose the display mode based on your preferred operation pattern and output. Digital displays are more accurate and easier to handle during work but tend to be more expensive.
Machine Compatibility
While more artists are starting to use wireless rotary tattoo machines each year, many still prefer traditional coil machines. Coil machines are typically made with a lot of brass or other metals, making them very heavy. However, coil machines are inexpensive and demonstrate the basic principles of tattooing, which may be one reason why they are still used by tattoo artists.
Rotary tattoo machines, especially wireless ink pens, have become mainstream in recent years due to their compact size and ease of use. They often come with various other features, making them not only convenient to use but also designed to reduce strain on the hand.
Size and Portability
Small power supplies are not only easy to carry but also easy to operate, making them a top priority for many tattoo artists who need to visit clients. Even those with studios likely use smaller ones for their convenience.
Conversely, generally heavier or larger power supplies offer superior stability and functionality, which is extremely helpful when creating tattoo designs that require a long time.
Cost-Effectiveness
Like anything else, power supplies are no exception: the more expensive they are, the higher their stability and quality. Generally, RCA power supplies range from around ¥5,000 for cheaper models to over ¥50,000 for high-end ones. As the price increases, power supplies become more functional. Some multifunctional power supplies can connect to both coil machines and rotary tattoo pens, while others offer more precise control over output voltage and power, allowing for more intricate artwork.
Summary
As wireless tattoo machines become a trend, the importance of power supplies is also increasing. Like the machines themselves, power supplies are constantly evolving, with features such as digital displays on batteries and various mode changes. To create more precise and original artwork, choose the power supply that suits you best!
Reference
This article is a translation and re-organization of this page.