I have a Astron 50M and have used it for about 30 years now. I hated to move it around to attach another radio what a pain. So I got my trusty Ryobi drill and put 4 holes in the front. Now I have 2 more sets of terminals with easy access. Like I said this supply is a beast. Also have a 70M but that thing does not get moved at all.
Glad to hear it. They are great machines that, because they just sit there, don't get as much pomp and circumstance as they deserve. Thanks for sharing!
I've got a VS-35M (same except variable voltage) for as long as I've been a ham. I was first licensed in the 70's. I've had to change a pass transistor once and it keeps on ticking. Had a switching supply when they first came out. Couldn't use 40 meter because of a whirling zero beat sounding rfi. They're better now. Still have my 35A and got a Astron 70 amp for my amps. A linear supply for my linear's
I use only linear supplies for my regular equipment, although the amplifier runs on a 32V 150A industrial grade switching supply specifically made for transmitting equipment by AM. The problem with cheap switching supplies are the loop speeds that are super fast to protect the marginal FET's used and that get triggered by peak modes like SSB, CW and sometimes digital. This can be overcome by adding a big enough storage capacitor with a soft start. But by the time that is done one might as well go back to linear supplies.
I have a 223 pound power supply that the titian two check out missile used. I got it at a hamfest for for about 150 bucks that I ran on two repeater systems on VHF and UHF with power amps. This monster puts out about 100 plus amps at 12 to 14 volts. I still have it and could power up any Kilowatt ham station for ever...
Building my first shack and went with the Yaesu FP-1030A linear 30A power supply. It's very quiet but the analog meters aren't illuminated. I also fly RC model aircraft (electric) and the Electronic Speed Controls are offered with either linear or switching BEC (Battery Elimination Circuit) to power the receiver and servos using the same litium-polymer battery as the motor. These generally run around 10A or less so use switching BECs. Battery efficiency was the prime consideration for RC. Quiet for my Ham shack.
Yaesu makes high quality goods, and the FP-1030A is a solid supply that should bring you years of care-free performance. It is good that those BEC are quiet in the shack - I have some RC that are very noisy and as soon as I turn on my radio I'm reminded to unplug.
Good video 👍 like you I use both my MFJ switching power supply just dyed after 21 year of continuous running for 24 hrs a day. I will replace it with a new MFJ switching but I pulled an old 20A ASTRON liner out of the closet that’s been there for at least long and it fired right up so I thank both are great quality. I bought the ASTRON 20A back in 1982 so it’s been around a while.👍✅ KV5P
Thanks for sharing your experience. 21 years @ 24 hours per day -- Wow, definitely got your money's worth there. For the Astron, I'd say 38 years and still running is a ringing endorsement, even if it has been sitting for a while. Both manufacturers know their way around a solid power supply. Good to know I won't be shopping for one anytime soon.
2 October 2024. Just bought this last unit available Astron 35 on Amazon. I hate fan noise. Its about twice the price of a good switching power supply I was thinking about getting. Always get good stuff your planning on using for years.
Good advice. I'll add another option. I have two linears, an Astron RS-35A and a Pyramid PS-26KX. The first doesn't have meters, but I got such a good deal on it at a hamfest I don't mind. The Pyramid has meters and an adjustable output voltage from 6-16 volts. Those who're planning to experiment and may need different voltages might pay a bit more to get one that is adjustable.
I've got a VS-35M (same except variable voltage) for as long as I've been a ham. I was first licensed in the 70's. I've had to change a pass transistor once and it keeps on ticking. Had a switching supply when they first came out. Couldn't use 40 meter because of a whirling zero beat sounding rfi. They're better now. Still have my 35A and got a Astron 70 amp for my amps. A linear supply for my linear's
Variable voltage would have some advantages. One day I hope get my hands and mind some experience with tube-based equipment. Knowing that 13.8 is a bit of an average, I suspect that having a variable voltage supply would be beneficial in optimization and flexibility. I see these beautiful radios and amps from the 40's - 80's and know that there is a lot of great learning, making, tinkering, and communicating, to be had there... Good point about the need for a linear for the linears - when a shack starts to build up, the power requirements tend to increase as well, and the Astron 70 seems to be the gold standard for heavy lifting. 73- AC3DS
I was using switching power supplies before switching power supplies were cool, early 1990s, and the switching supply I used then and still use is a Lambda switching power supply rated at 48 amps. I almost completely attenuated the RF hash noise by brute forcing ferrite beads at the output of the supply to where the noise was just above the natural noise floor of the band I was working, 10 Meters in this case, and arguably the least noisy of the HF bands. Don't let the EMI noise scare you away from using switching power supplies.
You bring up some really good points: Sometimes the noise generated by local sources is lower than the noise floor and consequently it isn't as big of a problem as it might seem. Also, the companies have had thirty years to keep making better and better power supplies. Thanks for adding to this conversation!
Linear regulated is still a better power supply than switching . I can detect the RF hashing noise on my high end equipment from switching power supply's.. Linear Regulated is the way to go.
The title is "your first power supply". If that's the case, I doubt someone would be able to trace the source of the noise, e.g. the linear supply K-Tech fixed by moving a ground.
Another pro for linear supplies like the Astron you have there is repairability. Because linear supplies are fairly simple their repairs can also be pretty simple. Unless you melt down the transformer in one of those supplies you will probably be able to repair it quickly and cheaply. Cheers.
Excellent point. For anyone that is willing to learn, that could be a good opportunity, and without a significant overhead of knowledge. Thanks for bringing this up! 73, AC3DS
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I started with an Astron RS-12(which still powers the Shack), and a Pyramid 30A, both linear. Both also found in the ewaste pile at work with some other ham gear that also came home.
I had a MFJ switching power supply that failed and provided an over voltage condition that damaged 2 of my radios. I now use an Astron 35A that includes crowbar over voltage protection. Another advantage of the linear.
Bill, I'm really glad that you brought up the crowbar over voltage protection. It is a great feature to have built into the Astron RS supply and definitely something that can bring some piece of mind. All equipment can fail, but there is certainly a value add to well engineered devices.
You can add an SCR crowbar to any power supply. You can make one that just connects externally. It only requires a few parts. If the output voltage rises above a preset threshold, it will short the output to ground and either blow the primary fuse on a linear supply or trip the overcurrent protection on a switch mode supply. I'm not going to trust MFJ with the thousands of dollars of radio equipment connected to that $100 power supply.
About that crowbar: It destroyed the final transistors in Icom IC7300 when it suddenly crowbarred from RFI. By shorting the power supply, the capacitors inside the radio discharged *backwards* through that same crowbar briefly reverse polarity on the MOSFET's. They don't like that. Astron has a fairly simple fix for that, ferrite beads on the crowbar SCR.
@@thomasmaughan4798 How exactly would a capacitor "discharge backwards" into a dead short? The caps are charged by and at the same polarity as the power supply. Plus the IC-7300 has reverse polarity protection via D201 and D202 on the PA board to protect against that (top left on the PA-1 schematic, right next to "dc-in"). If you have fuses in the power cables, reverse polarity from outside of the rig shouldn't be a problem. And if it is from inside the rig the diodes will still clamp it. How do ferrites in the PS help with caps in the radio discharging?
@@stargazer7644 "How exactly would a capacitor "discharge backwards" into a dead short?" I don't have time right now to inspect the schematic and provide a detailed answer. However, the concept is simple enough. All of the capacitors in the radio will be holding a charge at the moment the crowbar SCR fires. The abrupt grounding of the 12 volt supply rail changes the discharge path of all of these capacitors. While that might seem to be harmless, it isn't, and wasn't. I had to send my radio to Icom for repair. Perhaps Icom has added polarity protection diodes for just this scenario. I might as well check my schematic for the diodes you identify. Okay; the diodes are in parallel with the input, not in series. They are not subjected to reverse polarity in the circumstance of a crowbar situation; they simply experience an abrupt transition to zero volts (well, the forward voltage drop of an SCR). This voltage will be presented at the drains of the totem-pole MOSFET in the power amplifier. By itself that should be harmless. Somehow, and I have not figured it out exactly, both MOSFETS must have become conductive simultaneously and as the impedance of a fully conducting MOSFET is less than that of a SCR, the MOSFETS took the brunt of the Astron power supply. Interestingly, the crowbar is supposed to blow the fuse, but it didn't. I turned off the Astron almost immediately when I detected malfunction. The ferrite beads are to be placed in the legs of the SCR to prevent radio wave induction from triggering the SCR, a known problem. As I was using a magloop antenna there's a lot more near-field induction than would otherwise be the case. It also bothers the Battery Management in a Goal Zero lithium battery! Abrupt shutdown but at least not crowbar. So now I use *Stupid Batteries* a pair of 35 AH gel cells and when I need a bit more power, like anything more than 11 watts, I boost it with an MFJ booster.
My old Alinco power supply DM-340MV is the best and am sorry they stopped making it... I run 3 radios off it and have no problems. The switching power that I have has RF problems even through they say how to get rid of it, but a small of RF is still there. Get a damn good old linear power supple. If you go Mobil get a good battery... Nice video through and educational ...
I've found linear supplies like Astrons which use an LM723 can emit broadband RF noise or hash....I've solved that problem by bypassing the pins of the 723 which are connected to diodes internally...IIRC, I've added .01uF ceramic caps across those pins to ground to kill the noise...While it's not normally a problem, I've found that shunting such caps across diodes in power supply sections can help with the noise floor of the device powered by the supply...
I just use an old PC power supply that provides 36 amperes for my radio equipment testing and setup. I do transmit CB sometimes. But I am not licensed. I repair, modify, upgrade, make antennas, make manual tuners, make amplifiers, setup stations, and setup repeaters. But without a license, CB is the only transmitter I have and it is used seldom.
Using a PC power supply is a good thought. I'm going to have to give that a try. I know that they typically have 5+ outputs, with different voltages and amps, so this should be a good test. Citizens Band is where I started and stayed for many years. I didn't know anyone in Ham Radio, but loved the idea of taking my local communications and expanding out. From what you shared, you are a true maker, so keep it up and continue to enjoy that wonderful spectrum.
I have a mighty light 25 amp switching power supply. Runs my 7300 and several meter lights. Never had a problem with RF noise but I can hear the fan running if I focus on it, but, I've had it from the beginning and don't even notice it anymore.
I have the same 35 amp Astron power supply, but the newer version with the power poles in the front. The power poles are really small and I don't see how one would fit a number of 16 and 14 AWG wires into the poles. I hook the four 13.8 volt wires that I have into the back using crimp on ring terminals. Into the back looks a lot cleaner.
You don't fit a number of 16 or 14 wires into one powerpole. You connect it to a breakout adapter or a power distribution box to give you multiple power poles.
Thanx for the video. As a new ham I am considering the Sadelta sps-3035 model. 30/35A. About 100 euro. I also realize now that when you begin a hobby you have to invest quite a lot. I try to buy as much as possible second hand, but even then..
Appreciate you sharing your thoughts and insights in this video. I have boat anchor p.s & switching p.s. I enjoy my switching p.s. the most. The newer switching p.s. generally meet my Amp requirements. Of course the Astron are fantastic in my opinion. 73 Steve AA4SH
Thanks for the useful video Drew. I hoped you were going to mention running costs, am I right in thinking that a linear power supply uses more power? I have both types and prefer the linear for its quietness. If you have a power supply with a fan and a rig with a fan, the audio noise in the shack rises.
In general - a good idea for a switching supply would be a GO box, provided you didn't restrict the air flow by buring it in a mas of cables and/or panels. Specifics - I've always looked at MFJ with a cautious eye. Their quality control has gotten better, and they make some popular equipment lime the Versa Tuner and 259 (antenna analyzer). I've not heard much about the switching supply, so no news is good news (?). The Astron linear and switching supplies are workhorses, and I've only had one RS-35 fail on me when transmitting on an HF rig. A capacitor and voltage regulator replacment fixed that and havr not had problems since. Also, I've not seen a problem with their switching supplies. Their fans are quiet, and no hash on the RF. What you presented is a good foundation and understanding the difference between the two types. I look forward to seeing more of your videos.
You are very right about the use of the switching power supply in a GO box - a definite addition. I've seen some great products by MFJ, and then I've heard some quality control issues as well. The only piece of MFJ equipment that I've personally observed being of unusual quality was a 259 that looked like it had been repurposed from other pieces of metal with printing on the inside that definitely didn't belong --- but it didn't affect the performance at all, so no harm in a sense. Thanks for the feedback and for adding to the conversation. The experience and voice that everyone brings to the discussion helps new and experienced operators alike! 73 - AC3DS
I always open the case on anything I get from MFJ and remove the loose screws and solder blobs rolling around inside and check for anything out of place before powering it up the first time. It happens a lot. MFJ has a reputation for a reason.
Hi Drew, thanks for all the info and for saving me so much research time as I'm just getting into the hobby. Your channel has become one of my top go-to's and convinced me to finally go for the IC-7300 as my first HF rig. Much love and respect from Istanbul, Turkey. 73 --Hasan TA1HYK
For my UHF radio, I restrict it to 5W so I use a Dometic fridge adaptor which has a cigarette lighter socket. I can provide 6A or 72W, not sure about RF noise as a fridge doesn’t care. I also have a linear power supply but it is a big heavy bastard. I bought it in 2000 bud never used it much, it doesn’t (apparently) have capacitor disease. I would like to put a cigarette lighter plug on my Icom 7300 (for DXing) but the wires are too thick to connect to the plug. I might just use banana plugs to join it knowing I won’t exceed about 20W.
I'm using 6 Ah LiFEPO4 batteries (in parallel as required) on a 2000 mA trickle charger. Works great, no heat, dead silent. It's brave now world for shack-power ;-)
Whoa, very nice! I’ve lost power twice in the past month and both times I thought about how it would be nice to have a setup such as yours. What charger did you get? What brand battery?
i've had a boat anchor of a dc psu from MFJ since early 2000's, it's unkillable however it's heavy (40 pounds) and not suitable for applications where I want integral variable output (CC or CV). It outputs up to 17v and 70 amps on household current. My next psu will be a lab grade unit that fits in a backpack but won't snap my spine. :P It's either a keysight unit or a siglent unit.
How do the linear supplies do when powering an HF rig doing something like FT8, in which the radio may be going back and forth between transmitting and receiving every 15 seconds. Can they handle the frequent increases in amps??
Linear power supplies track changes in demand current essentially instantaneously, there isn't a "loop" per se. Switching power supplies have a feedback loop that controls the *primary* of a small transformer so there can be a slight delay in transient response with a switching power supply.
I'm considering using an Astron Linear power supply for one of my audio amps but I'm confused on how to use the power terminals on the back. Just strip some wire and tighten the positive end around the positive and negative around negative and tighten, run wire to DC plug of size and then into amp?
Good point. Very true, the 7300 does have those same meters, and that is super handy, especially when I'm out mobile with my 7300. I guess having dual meters never hurts though, and truth be told, I just like seeing those needles move.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 Agreed, external power meter is good option to monitor the power. BTW, the built-in boltage and current meter only represented as bar graph. Thank you, 73.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 Not only that, analog moving-needle meters are incredibly reliable and believable. A bit delicate, but there's no digital circuits to malfunction without you knowing that your digital meter is not giving an accurate indication. So I have a Simpson 260 multimeter in my kit for just that reason.
Money, size and weight were and are a big deal so we bought a Samlex 1235m, based on recommendations made on other videos. Still your recommendations have me thinking. How hot does that Astron get when running all day?
The Samlex power supplies are nice, and from the eHam reviews their owners seem to be very happy with them. As to the temp of the Astron, I can not say with any certainty as I've never measured it, nor do I typically touch it during use. In my shack, it sits about 2 feet away and at eye level. I've never noticed any heat emanating from it, and in my cold basement I'm always wanting a bit more heat. I'll have to check this out during my next long-haul day and report back.
Very true - there are many good brands out there. I always try and encourage folks to check out eHam, DX Engineering, and other sources for reviews and recommendations. Thanks for posting! 73, AC3DS
Good question. Thanks for asking! Yes it is definitely possible. Depending on the type of power connections on the radios (powerpoles, bare wires, ring terminals) and on the power supplies (posts, terminals, poles) , this could be really easy or only a small amount of work to set up. Each radio will need a certain amount of current in order to be turned on, and a different amount in order to transmit, and provided that the power supply can handle the sum of all of the simultaneous current draws, it will work just fine. But wait, there's more... If you want to transmit on more than one radio simultaneously, you need to know maximum current of each radio. My HF radio draws about 20amps when transmitting in SSB. If I were to have a second radio of any kind, and wanted to let one run digital modes and the other phone, I would want a power supply of greater than 40amps + some extra cushion. If you only want to transmit on one at a time, the max amperage of the power supply should be just a bit more than the max of the largest radio. For me, having two, three, or more radios connected to my 35Amp supply is not a problem provided that I don't try and key up on multiple simultaneously and draw more than the 35A the supply can provide.
Most Astrons have SCR crowbar overvoltage protection. If the output goes above a preset limit, the output gets shorted and it blows the fuse. It will save your radio.
Good information to share, thank you! There are a lot of things which can generate splatter noise, and we certainly don't want our power supply to be one of them. 73.
I'll take my Megawatt switchers anytime. I have three 50W switchers in my shack. Two of them are paralleled and one is a stand alone. The Megawatt supplies are fully filtered and have a 100% duty cycle for trouble-free power as needed. The linears are much too heavy and expensive to be practical.
Well, yeah, that would have been a logical decision! Alas, I don't have the switching one any longer to even try. Perhaps I'll pick one up again when we go to add radios to another room. Thanks for the idea.
The battery and trickle charger certainly adds a few elements, but is a solid performing option. I'll have to do some additional testing and report back. If you have any experience in the comparison, please share. 73 - AC3DS.
One thing to keep in mind when contemplating a battery power supply - your rig generally will not put out full power with less than 13.8V, and a car battery will be 12.6V or less depending on state of charge. You won't get full power out. My 100W radio does about 83W on a fully charged car battery.
My trickle charger is the worst source of noise; or is that the best (most!) source of noise (RFI). I turn off the trickle charger to operate HF. I also use a MFJ battery booster to get the voltage up where it is supposed to be. It also makes a bit of RFI but some ferrite beads suppresses it pretty well.
switchers are useful for portable operations but you'd have to pull my astron VM50 out of My cold dead hands before I give them up. I have several of the variable voltage adjustable current 50 amp astrons and I have 70 amp VM astron And like I said you'd have to pull them out of my cold dead hands before I'd ever give them up. The 50 amp models sell for close to $500 today they're only drawback is at their heavy which really isn't a drawback. once they get mounted in their position in the shack they never need to get moved. The leg terminals on the back get extended to terminal strips using two gauge wire. a single 50 amp variable voltage astron will power your whole shack and you'll end up passing it down to your grandkids. The switcher is on the other hand are notorious for generating switching noise, the fans are annoying because they kick on anytime you're transmitting and you constantly have to clean them out because the fan suck dust and debris into the cases. I have several high-end switchers but I only use those for portable operations. I'm still using laboratory grade linear power supplies on my workbench. I did order a couple of switching lab power supplies and all of them ended up going back because they all generated ridiculous amounts of noise. So I'm back to using linear power supplies on my test bench. If you're just getting into the hobby do yourself a favor and just pick up a decent linear power supply then you won't have to worry about dealing with the radio hash that the switchers generate.
I like the way you think! I've had no problems running from both a LiFePO4 and traditional SLA batteries. I love going to a local park and getting on the air. 73, AC3DS
I just heard you say the name of this channel, " Transmitting Until Robots Replace Us" (LOL) and I already love this channel. Okay - Subscribed & Notification All. (still LOL over the channel name ; )
Glad to have you aboard! We love to hear from everyone, and it is good to know that the humor of the name is being received. Feel free to drop a line if you have any ideas for videos you'd like to see made. 73 - AC3DS
Excellent point- the Astron supply is well documented and can certainly be repaired. Hopefully it won’t need to be, but it is nice to know that it can be done if needed. Good thought, thank you for commenting!
@1:50 “PR0Ns” 🤣 Starting an On,y Fans page? Seriously… Excellent p/s presentation.. Thank you. Forgot.. I’ve been using modified HP HSTNS-PL29 server power supply units. They are extremely well designed and manufactured! They were originally designed for mission critical servers and were VERY pricey. They sold for $750@ ! I buy them “refurbished” from a public safety comms company who actually sources NEW units and they only charge… $250@ .. JUST KIDDING! How much? $25 Shipped! They are 100-240 VAC 50/50Hz. and.. output VERY clean 12VDC at 65 Amps. They require a simple modification. 2x 1k ohm resistors to enable them to stay powered on continuously. (They normally get switched on by the server they are inserted into) The only problem? 12 Volts DC and not 13.8Vdc. My repeaters really love running on 13.8 (Hytera and Motorola) There are a few TH-cam videos on modifying them to output 13.8. I just haven’t had the spare time to try.
When sizing your power supply, you probably should have mentioned that a 35A power supply normally can't supply 35A continuously. The Astron RS-35 is only a 25A power supply. The 35A rating is only on peaks.
Linears are not completely quet. Both Astrons I have, hum. The smaller ones also hum. And need to mention crazy high magnetic field within 3 feet of any linear supply. Keep Away from them when operatiing! Especially with heart problems, pacemaker, etc. Not good. I measured magnetic field intensity, much much higher than maximum allowed within 3 feet or closer, any supply 20 amp or higher, keep away, use long power cable, 6 foot+
You are correct that they aren't completely quiet. The linears that I've used have had a barely audible low hum. I can't hear the hum over general ambient household noise, and certainly not over the noise of a radio. You bring up really interesting points with the strong magnetic fields - I've not ever considered that aspect of them. Definitely something to consider.
Well, I hate to be the detractor. Video is well done .., but, since this is about your “first” Power supply it would’ve been nice had you turned the MFJ around and showed us what an Anderson connector looks like. I know it can be searched for, it would’ve just made the video a little more complete for the newbie.
That mfj has everything but the mounting holes for it actually being a cheap computer psu. The front is nice and clean though. I have 2 stacked PS53KX. The only reason for a pyramid and not an Astron, is that the first unit was under 5 ft of water for 12 hours(not with power on)...dried it out...lubed the switches and wiped it down with wd-40. Has been working daily since 2016. It was built in 2004. 2nd one went down to $140 on Amazon...so a no brainer.
Wow, that you were able to recover a power supply from being under 5 feet of water and still have it work well is a testament to the quality of their product. And certainly anything that is that good is well worth the $140 for a second one. Good recommendation. Thanks for sharing.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 The switching power supplies have their place for sure. But all electronics are only as good as the components they're made of and quality control that lets them out the door...thanks for the video.
Famous last words, right? :) So far, so good... but who knows how long that will be. Even if the linear or switching supplies goes bad, they helped get me into the hobby and on the air for the first few years, so I'll probably always have a soft spot for them.
I don’t use transformer I try designing a transformer less liner power supply it’s just works using higher voltage transistor and good wire wound resistor and lm393 ic it’s really lightweight 2 pound
That's a great linear supply, but the output generates a bit of common mode noise, especially at lower frequencies. I made a video demonstrating it, and showing a few ways to mitigate that noise: th-cam.com/video/lQQHlbOMOuw/w-d-xo.html
Why thank you MadDog! We appreciate the feedback. Feel free to let us know if there is anything else ham radio related you'd like for us to make a video on... We have about 4 in the works, but are always open to new ideas. 73- AC3DS
Complex components are mainly irreparable and cause of environmental pollution. Our resources and efforts are more vulnerable than business and light weight. We are making /creating more pollution by frequent upgrading and latest trending designs. Smps has highest probability of outside unwanted manipulations hacking by adding few extra component easily unnoticed.
I've heard/read some horror stories, but thankfully have been spared the worst of it so far. Lots of manufacturers and models out there, so there are probably some excellent ones and some duds. I always land up reading reviews on eHam and other sites before buying. To each their own though. Thanks for sharing your experience.
I ended up choosing a battery for my station, since I really only see myself operating HF portable, due to the fact that I live in an apartment. My battery is a 50Ah LiFePO₄ type. 73 VE7NDE
Hi Harold, Thanks for joining in the conversation. Could you expand on your thoughts a bit? Our experiences may be different and it is good for the hobby that we all share what we've experienced. It will help others to make good and informed decisions. 73.
Good job. I'm an old linear supply person. One 35M has been on since 1987.
The linear power supplies are the best and they last forever.
A Professional Presentation, I liked it.
Thank you very much! I'm glad it worked for you. 73 - AC3DS
I have a Astron 50M and have used it for about 30 years now. I hated to move it around to attach another radio what a pain. So I got my trusty Ryobi drill and put 4 holes in the front. Now I have 2 more sets of terminals with easy access. Like I said this supply is a beast. Also have a 70M but that thing does not get moved at all.
I'd love to see how you connected the 2 additional sets of terminals. That would be a good project!
I have the same astron power supply. Had it for a month and working great
Glad to hear it. They are great machines that, because they just sit there, don't get as much pomp and circumstance as they deserve. Thanks for sharing!
I've got a VS-35M (same except variable voltage) for as long as I've been a ham.
I was first licensed in the 70's. I've had to change a pass transistor once and it keeps on ticking.
Had a switching supply when they first came out. Couldn't use 40 meter because of a whirling zero beat sounding rfi. They're better now. Still have my 35A and got a Astron 70 amp for my amps. A linear supply for my linear's
I use only linear supplies for my regular equipment, although the amplifier runs on a 32V 150A industrial grade switching supply specifically made for transmitting equipment by AM. The problem with cheap switching supplies are the loop speeds that are super fast to protect the marginal FET's used and that get triggered by peak modes like SSB, CW and sometimes digital. This can be overcome by adding a big enough storage capacitor with a soft start. But by the time that is done one might as well go back to linear supplies.
I have a 223 pound power supply that the titian two check out missile used. I got it at a hamfest for for about 150 bucks that I ran on two repeater systems on VHF and UHF with power amps. This monster puts out about 100 plus amps at 12 to 14 volts. I still have it and could power up any Kilowatt ham station for ever...
Building my first shack and went with the Yaesu FP-1030A linear 30A power supply. It's very quiet but the analog meters aren't illuminated.
I also fly RC model aircraft (electric) and the Electronic Speed Controls are offered with either linear or switching BEC (Battery Elimination Circuit) to power the receiver and servos using the same litium-polymer battery as the motor. These generally run around 10A or less so use switching BECs. Battery efficiency was the prime consideration for RC. Quiet for my Ham shack.
Yaesu makes high quality goods, and the FP-1030A is a solid supply that should bring you years of care-free performance. It is good that those BEC are quiet in the shack - I have some RC that are very noisy and as soon as I turn on my radio I'm reminded to unplug.
Good video 👍 like you I use both my MFJ switching power supply just dyed after 21 year of continuous running for 24 hrs a day. I will replace it with a new MFJ switching but I pulled an old 20A ASTRON liner out of the closet that’s been there for at least long and it fired right up so I thank both are great quality. I bought the ASTRON 20A back in 1982 so it’s been around a while.👍✅ KV5P
Thanks for sharing your experience. 21 years @ 24 hours per day -- Wow, definitely got your money's worth there. For the Astron, I'd say 38 years and still running is a ringing endorsement, even if it has been sitting for a while. Both manufacturers know their way around a solid power supply. Good to know I won't be shopping for one anytime soon.
2 October 2024. Just bought this last unit available Astron 35 on Amazon. I hate fan noise. Its about twice the price of a good switching power supply I was thinking about getting. Always get good stuff your planning on using for years.
Good advice. I'll add another option. I have two linears, an Astron RS-35A and a Pyramid PS-26KX. The first doesn't have meters, but I got such a good deal on it at a hamfest I don't mind. The Pyramid has meters and an adjustable output voltage from 6-16 volts. Those who're planning to experiment and may need different voltages might pay a bit more to get one that is adjustable.
I've got a VS-35M (same except variable voltage) for as long as I've been a ham.
I was first licensed in the 70's. I've had to change a pass transistor once and it keeps on ticking.
Had a switching supply when they first came out. Couldn't use 40 meter because of a whirling zero beat sounding rfi. They're better now. Still have my 35A and got a Astron 70 amp for my amps. A linear supply for my linear's
Variable voltage would have some advantages. One day I hope get my hands and mind some experience with tube-based equipment. Knowing that 13.8 is a bit of an average, I suspect that having a variable voltage supply would be beneficial in optimization and flexibility. I see these beautiful radios and amps from the 40's - 80's and know that there is a lot of great learning, making, tinkering, and communicating, to be had there... Good point about the need for a linear for the linears - when a shack starts to build up, the power requirements tend to increase as well, and the Astron 70 seems to be the gold standard for heavy lifting. 73- AC3DS
I was using switching power supplies before switching power supplies were cool, early 1990s, and the switching supply I used then and still use is a Lambda switching power supply rated at 48 amps. I almost completely attenuated the RF hash noise by brute forcing ferrite beads at the output of the supply to where the noise was just above the natural noise floor of the band I was working, 10 Meters in this case, and arguably the least noisy of the HF bands. Don't let the EMI noise scare you away from using switching power supplies.
You bring up some really good points: Sometimes the noise generated by local sources is lower than the noise floor and consequently it isn't as big of a problem as it might seem. Also, the companies have had thirty years to keep making better and better power supplies. Thanks for adding to this conversation!
Linear regulated is still a better power supply than switching . I can detect the RF hashing noise on my high end equipment from switching power supply's.. Linear Regulated is the way to go.
The title is "your first power supply". If that's the case, I doubt someone would be able to trace the source of the noise, e.g. the linear supply K-Tech fixed by moving a ground.
I agree, I use a Samlex 1235M and i have no rfi issues whatsoever
Another pro for linear supplies like the Astron you have there is repairability.
Because linear supplies are fairly simple their repairs can also be pretty simple.
Unless you melt down the transformer in one of those supplies you will probably be able to repair it quickly and cheaply.
Cheers.
Excellent point. For anyone that is willing to learn, that could be a good opportunity, and without a significant overhead of knowledge. Thanks for bringing this up! 73, AC3DS
*YES IS WHY YOU ALL WAYS !! BUY REAL TRANSFORMERS ...*
*(BE AWARE **#CHINA** HAVE **#STOLEN** ALL **#COPPER** !!)*
*SO A **#COMMUNIST** FIND OUT ... TO **#FOOL** THE WORLD **#MORE** .*
*THEY USE "ALU--WIRE" ... THEN "PAINT" ...COPPER COLOR ON IT ...*
*AND SELL "THIS CRAP COPIES" TO **#FOOLS** BUYING FROM "THEM"*
(DO NEVER SUPPORT CHINA COMMUNISTS)
OK ..
@@netautorisationnetautorisa545 😂
Yes yes yes
My RS-70M got hit by a lightning strike several months ago and it may not be repairable.It’s well over 20 years old and it has served me well.
I started with an Astron RS-12(which still powers the Shack), and a Pyramid 30A, both linear. Both also found in the ewaste pile at work with some other ham gear that also came home.
I had a MFJ switching power supply that failed and provided an over voltage condition that damaged 2 of my radios. I now use an Astron 35A that includes crowbar over voltage protection. Another advantage of the linear.
Bill, I'm really glad that you brought up the crowbar over voltage protection. It is a great feature to have built into the Astron RS supply and definitely something that can bring some piece of mind. All equipment can fail, but there is certainly a value add to well engineered devices.
You can add an SCR crowbar to any power supply. You can make one that just connects externally. It only requires a few parts. If the output voltage rises above a preset threshold, it will short the output to ground and either blow the primary fuse on a linear supply or trip the overcurrent protection on a switch mode supply. I'm not going to trust MFJ with the thousands of dollars of radio equipment connected to that $100 power supply.
About that crowbar: It destroyed the final transistors in Icom IC7300 when it suddenly crowbarred from RFI. By shorting the power supply, the capacitors inside the radio discharged *backwards* through that same crowbar briefly reverse polarity on the MOSFET's. They don't like that. Astron has a fairly simple fix for that, ferrite beads on the crowbar SCR.
@@thomasmaughan4798 How exactly would a capacitor "discharge backwards" into a dead short? The caps are charged by and at the same polarity as the power supply. Plus the IC-7300 has reverse polarity protection via D201 and D202 on the PA board to protect against that (top left on the PA-1 schematic, right next to "dc-in"). If you have fuses in the power cables, reverse polarity from outside of the rig shouldn't be a problem. And if it is from inside the rig the diodes will still clamp it. How do ferrites in the PS help with caps in the radio discharging?
@@stargazer7644 "How exactly would a capacitor "discharge backwards" into a dead short?"
I don't have time right now to inspect the schematic and provide a detailed answer. However, the concept is simple enough. All of the capacitors in the radio will be holding a charge at the moment the crowbar SCR fires. The abrupt grounding of the 12 volt supply rail changes the discharge path of all of these capacitors. While that might seem to be harmless, it isn't, and wasn't. I had to send my radio to Icom for repair.
Perhaps Icom has added polarity protection diodes for just this scenario. I might as well check my schematic for the diodes you identify.
Okay; the diodes are in parallel with the input, not in series. They are not subjected to reverse polarity in the circumstance of a crowbar situation; they simply experience an abrupt transition to zero volts (well, the forward voltage drop of an SCR). This voltage will be presented at the drains of the totem-pole MOSFET in the power amplifier. By itself that should be harmless. Somehow, and I have not figured it out exactly, both MOSFETS must have become conductive simultaneously and as the impedance of a fully conducting MOSFET is less than that of a SCR, the MOSFETS took the brunt of the Astron power supply.
Interestingly, the crowbar is supposed to blow the fuse, but it didn't. I turned off the Astron almost immediately when I detected malfunction.
The ferrite beads are to be placed in the legs of the SCR to prevent radio wave induction from triggering the SCR, a known problem. As I was using a magloop antenna there's a lot more near-field induction than would otherwise be the case.
It also bothers the Battery Management in a Goal Zero lithium battery! Abrupt shutdown but at least not crowbar.
So now I use *Stupid Batteries* a pair of 35 AH gel cells and when I need a bit more power, like anything more than 11 watts, I boost it with an MFJ booster.
My old Alinco power supply DM-340MV is the best and am sorry they stopped making it... I run 3 radios off it and have no problems. The switching power that I have has RF problems even through they say how to get rid of it, but a small of RF is still there. Get a damn good old linear power supple. If you go Mobil get a good battery... Nice video through and educational ...
I've found linear supplies like Astrons which use an LM723 can emit broadband RF noise or hash....I've solved that problem by bypassing the pins of the 723 which are connected to diodes internally...IIRC, I've added .01uF ceramic caps across those pins to ground to kill the noise...While it's not normally a problem, I've found that shunting such caps across diodes in power supply sections can help with the noise floor of the device powered by the supply...
Hey thanks for the fun and realistic review. I went with the Linear supply for my application.
I just use an old PC power supply that provides 36 amperes for my radio equipment testing and setup. I do transmit CB sometimes. But I am not licensed. I repair, modify, upgrade, make antennas, make manual tuners, make amplifiers, setup stations, and setup repeaters. But without a license, CB is the only transmitter I have and it is used seldom.
Using a PC power supply is a good thought. I'm going to have to give that a try. I know that they typically have 5+ outputs, with different voltages and amps, so this should be a good test. Citizens Band is where I started and stayed for many years. I didn't know anyone in Ham Radio, but loved the idea of taking my local communications and expanding out. From what you shared, you are a true maker, so keep it up and continue to enjoy that wonderful spectrum.
I have a mighty light 25 amp switching power supply. Runs my 7300 and several meter lights. Never had a problem with RF noise but I can hear the fan running if I focus on it, but, I've had it from the beginning and don't even notice it anymore.
Great presentation and very informative video. Astron is a great company and it’s what I prefer on my test bench and radio station.
Thanks for the feedback! It looks like you have a lot of really in-depth videos - thanks for putting those out for the community.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 and to you as well brother, love the channel name you chose. 👍🏻
I have the same 35 amp Astron power supply, but the newer version with the power poles in the front. The power poles are really small and I don't see how one would fit a number of 16 and 14 AWG wires into the poles. I hook the four 13.8 volt wires that I have into the back using crimp on ring terminals. Into the back looks a lot cleaner.
You don't fit a number of 16 or 14 wires into one powerpole. You connect it to a breakout adapter or a power distribution box to give you multiple power poles.
I've had my Astron RS-35M since the early 1990s. It still works just like it did the day I bought it. 73 de WB4DW
This is good feedback (a real testimonial) for anyone looking to make a purchase - thank you for sharing.
Thanx for the video. As a new ham I am considering the Sadelta sps-3035 model. 30/35A. About 100 euro. I also realize now that when you begin a hobby you have to invest quite a lot. I try to buy as much as possible second hand, but even then..
I prefer a good Linear supply and ASTRON supplies are very good and dependable.
New guy here....a great video. Fully explains the difference clearly and in terms my feeble brain can manage.
Appreciate you sharing your thoughts and insights in this video. I have boat anchor p.s & switching p.s. I enjoy my switching p.s. the most. The newer switching p.s. generally meet my Amp requirements. Of course the Astron are fantastic in my opinion.
73 Steve AA4SH
I especially like the digital meters vs analog. However currently I’m planning using the newer Lipo battery for POTA /SOTA
Thanks for the useful video Drew. I hoped you were going to mention running costs, am I right in thinking that a linear power supply uses more power? I have both types and prefer the linear for its quietness. If you have a power supply with a fan and a rig with a fan, the audio noise in the shack rises.
I have the new astron 35 with Andersen power poles it's a great power supply I highly recommend it for a base station K8SKP
In general - a good idea for a switching supply would be a GO box, provided you didn't restrict the air flow by buring it in a mas of cables and/or panels.
Specifics - I've always looked at MFJ with a cautious eye. Their quality control has gotten better, and they make some popular equipment lime the Versa Tuner and 259 (antenna analyzer). I've not heard much about the switching supply, so no news is good news (?).
The Astron linear and switching supplies are workhorses, and I've only had one RS-35 fail on me when transmitting on an HF rig. A capacitor and voltage regulator replacment fixed that and havr not had problems since. Also, I've not seen a problem with their switching supplies. Their fans are quiet, and no hash on the RF.
What you presented is a good foundation and understanding the difference between the two types. I look forward to seeing more of your videos.
You are very right about the use of the switching power supply in a GO box - a definite addition.
I've seen some great products by MFJ, and then I've heard some quality control issues as well. The only piece of MFJ equipment that I've personally observed being of unusual quality was a 259 that looked like it had been repurposed from other pieces of metal with printing on the inside that definitely didn't belong --- but it didn't affect the performance at all, so no harm in a sense.
Thanks for the feedback and for adding to the conversation. The experience and voice that everyone brings to the discussion helps new and experienced operators alike! 73 - AC3DS
I always open the case on anything I get from MFJ and remove the loose screws and solder blobs rolling around inside and check for anything out of place before powering it up the first time. It happens a lot. MFJ has a reputation for a reason.
You can fit about 6 of those MFJ's inside that Astron. Some of us do not have that kind of spare space in our shacks, so there is that consideration,
Very helpful info, especially for all us beginners
I own an Astron SS-30m which is a switching PSU. It's pretty quiet around the band, and if there is any noise it's hidden with the background.
That's awesome! Astron makes great supplies. This is good information for the community. Thank you for sharing. 73
Hi Drew, thanks for all the info and for saving me so much research time as I'm just getting into the hobby. Your channel has become one of my top go-to's and convinced me to finally go for the IC-7300 as my first HF rig. Much love and respect from Istanbul, Turkey. 73 --Hasan TA1HYK
For my UHF radio, I restrict it to 5W so I use a Dometic fridge adaptor which has a cigarette lighter socket. I can provide 6A or 72W, not sure about RF noise as a fridge doesn’t care.
I also have a linear power supply but it is a big heavy bastard. I bought it in 2000 bud never used it much, it doesn’t (apparently) have capacitor disease.
I would like to put a cigarette lighter plug on my Icom 7300 (for DXing) but the wires are too thick to connect to the plug. I might just use banana plugs to join it knowing I won’t exceed about 20W.
Subscribed.
Pleasant presentation.
Welcome aboard! Thanks for the feedback - much appreciated. AC3DS
I'm using 6 Ah LiFEPO4 batteries (in parallel as required) on a 2000 mA trickle charger. Works great, no heat, dead silent. It's brave now world for shack-power ;-)
Whoa, very nice! I’ve lost power twice in the past month and both times I thought about how it would be nice to have a setup such as yours. What charger did you get? What brand battery?
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 Also, the wall-wart has some RF noise, so wrapt the cord through a ferrite a few times. No issues, works very well.
i've had a boat anchor of a dc psu from MFJ since early 2000's, it's unkillable however it's heavy (40 pounds) and not suitable for applications where I want integral variable output (CC or CV). It outputs up to 17v and 70 amps on household current.
My next psu will be a lab grade unit that fits in a backpack but won't snap my spine. :P
It's either a keysight unit or a siglent unit.
THANKS. I HAVE A ASTRON 35M. 73 KE7LGD
Good job, well done, thanks.
Glad you liked it!
How do the linear supplies do when powering an HF rig doing something like FT8, in which the radio may be going back and forth between transmitting and receiving every 15 seconds. Can they handle the frequent increases in amps??
Linear power supplies track changes in demand current essentially instantaneously, there isn't a "loop" per se. Switching power supplies have a feedback loop that controls the *primary* of a small transformer so there can be a slight delay in transient response with a switching power supply.
I have a nova bcw power supply for cctv cameras. But I don't know how to install
Thank you for your presentation you have helped me a lot
Awesome, I'm glad it was helpful. If there are any other topics you would like to see covered, please let me know! 73 - AC3DS
I use Both but for my heavy loads I use a Linear Supply.Just my preference and I own many more Switching models.
I'm considering using an Astron Linear power supply for one of my audio amps but I'm confused on how to use the power terminals on the back. Just strip some wire and tighten the positive end around the positive and negative around negative and tighten, run wire to DC plug of size and then into amp?
That's about the size of it. You can use banana plugs, spade lugs. I use a 50 amp DC connector; like Anderson powerpole but a lot bigger.
Thank you for this video
I am wondering
efficiency
Which one is best efficiency ?
I am not good at English
switching
@@THESHADOW97139 Thanks
@@woodypark_over_the_rainbow De rien 👍
IC-7300 has built-in voltage and current meter.
Thank you.
Good point. Very true, the 7300 does have those same meters, and that is super handy, especially when I'm out mobile with my 7300. I guess having dual meters never hurts though, and truth be told, I just like seeing those needles move.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045
Agreed, external power meter is good option to monitor the power. BTW, the built-in boltage and current meter only represented as bar graph.
Thank you, 73.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 Not only that, analog moving-needle meters are incredibly reliable and believable. A bit delicate, but there's no digital circuits to malfunction without you knowing that your digital meter is not giving an accurate indication.
So I have a Simpson 260 multimeter in my kit for just that reason.
Money, size and weight were and are a big deal so we bought a Samlex 1235m, based on recommendations made on other videos. Still your recommendations have me thinking. How hot does that Astron get when running all day?
The Samlex power supplies are nice, and from the eHam reviews their owners seem to be very happy with them. As to the temp of the Astron, I can not say with any certainty as I've never measured it, nor do I typically touch it during use. In my shack, it sits about 2 feet away and at eye level. I've never noticed any heat emanating from it, and in my cold basement I'm always wanting a bit more heat. I'll have to check this out during my next long-haul day and report back.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 The people in my local club in MN, love the Astron, but as I said, money was and is an issue.
Astron switching power supplies are also very good. MFJ not so much. In addition to Astron, there are other brands that are good too.
Very true - there are many good brands out there. I always try and encourage folks to check out eHam, DX Engineering, and other sources for reviews and recommendations. Thanks for posting! 73, AC3DS
I got an mfj switching and a triplite linear. I couldn't make up my mind and wanted to see for myself 😂
As for a choice for used equipment, the linear would be the better choice. Also you can save money there.
Hello. Can you connect two rigs to one power supply? In other words, have uhf/vhf and Hf on one power supply?
Good question. Thanks for asking! Yes it is definitely possible. Depending on the type of power connections on the radios (powerpoles, bare wires, ring terminals) and on the power supplies (posts, terminals, poles) , this could be really easy or only a small amount of work to set up. Each radio will need a certain amount of current in order to be turned on, and a different amount in order to transmit, and provided that the power supply can handle the sum of all of the simultaneous current draws, it will work just fine. But wait, there's more...
If you want to transmit on more than one radio simultaneously, you need to know maximum current of each radio. My HF radio draws about 20amps when transmitting in SSB. If I were to have a second radio of any kind, and wanted to let one run digital modes and the other phone, I would want a power supply of greater than 40amps + some extra cushion.
If you only want to transmit on one at a time, the max amperage of the power supply should be just a bit more than the max of the largest radio. For me, having two, three, or more radios connected to my 35Amp supply is not a problem provided that I don't try and key up on multiple simultaneously and draw more than the 35A the supply can provide.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 got ya, and thanks for the reply!
In the case of the Astron specifically-does it have surge protection to help shield the transceiver?
Most Astrons have SCR crowbar overvoltage protection. If the output goes above a preset limit, the output gets shorted and it blows the fuse. It will save your radio.
I've found that certain LED switching supplies have drivers that splatter noise ONLY in HF bands.
Sharing that info critical
Good information to share, thank you! There are a lot of things which can generate splatter noise, and we certainly don't want our power supply to be one of them. 73.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 no doubt. I collected that experience through the gracious shares of others.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 and PS_ great screen name
Is the 70 amp one like yours with the meters worth me paying £600 English pounds for? Just wanna power a 500 watt amp with it. Rm kl 703
I'll take my Megawatt switchers anytime. I have three 50W switchers in my shack. Two of them are paralleled and one is a stand alone. The Megawatt supplies are fully filtered and have a 100% duty cycle for trouble-free power as needed. The linears are much too heavy and expensive to be practical.
Too heavy?? You're too weak mate. Linear easily outperforms switch mode PSU anytime.
linear under 10A
switching above 10A
So you have the 2 supplies right there, why not let us listen to the noise using each one?
Well, yeah, that would have been a logical decision! Alas, I don't have the switching one any longer to even try. Perhaps I'll pick one up again when we go to add radios to another room. Thanks for the idea.
How about Linear vs switching vs a car battery that is trickle charged in my shack.
The battery and trickle charger certainly adds a few elements, but is a solid performing option. I'll have to do some additional testing and report back. If you have any experience in the comparison, please share. 73 - AC3DS.
One thing to keep in mind when contemplating a battery power supply - your rig generally will not put out full power with less than 13.8V, and a car battery will be 12.6V or less depending on state of charge. You won't get full power out. My 100W radio does about 83W on a fully charged car battery.
My trickle charger is the worst source of noise; or is that the best (most!) source of noise (RFI). I turn off the trickle charger to operate HF. I also use a MFJ battery booster to get the voltage up where it is supposed to be. It also makes a bit of RFI but some ferrite beads suppresses it pretty well.
switchers are useful for portable operations but you'd have to pull my astron VM50 out of My cold dead hands before I give them up.
I have several of the variable voltage adjustable current 50 amp astrons and I have 70 amp VM astron And like I said you'd have to pull them out of my cold dead hands before I'd ever give them up. The 50 amp models sell for close to $500 today they're only drawback is at their heavy which really isn't a drawback. once they get mounted in their position in the shack they never need to get moved.
The leg terminals on the back get extended to terminal strips using two gauge wire. a single 50 amp variable voltage astron will power your whole shack and you'll end up passing it down to your grandkids. The switcher is on the other hand are notorious for generating switching noise, the fans are annoying because they kick on anytime you're transmitting and you constantly have to clean them out because the fan suck dust and debris into the cases.
I have several high-end switchers but I only use those for portable operations.
I'm still using laboratory grade linear power supplies on my workbench. I did order a couple of switching lab power supplies and all of them ended up going back because they all generated ridiculous amounts of noise. So I'm back to using linear power supplies on my test bench.
If you're just getting into the hobby do yourself a favor and just pick up a decent linear power supply then you won't have to worry about dealing with the radio hash that the switchers generate.
nice painting of Aspen trees
Thanks, we often think that no one sees our background choices!
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 yes, many have eyes but do not see
Try a SMPS on an inverter and C what happens. I would not have expensive equipment on the PS.
Please explain?
I chose a 20ah lifepo4 battery. And a solar panel.
If I've got mains power, cell phone.
Why even, power supply?
I like the way you think! I've had no problems running from both a LiFePO4 and traditional SLA batteries. I love going to a local park and getting on the air. 73, AC3DS
Well done 🙃
Thanks, I hope it was helpful.
I just heard you say the name of this channel, "
Transmitting Until Robots Replace Us" (LOL) and I already love this channel. Okay - Subscribed & Notification All. (still LOL over the channel name ; )
Glad to have you aboard! We love to hear from everyone, and it is good to know that the humor of the name is being received. Feel free to drop a line if you have any ideas for videos you'd like to see made. 73 - AC3DS
Very informative.
Astron would be the best choice the PCB can be replaced easily, yeah is heavy but would last for many years I think :)
Excellent point- the Astron supply is well documented and can certainly be repaired. Hopefully it won’t need to be, but it is nice to know that it can be done if needed. Good thought, thank you for commenting!
@1:50 “PR0Ns” 🤣
Starting an On,y Fans page?
Seriously… Excellent p/s presentation..
Thank you.
Forgot..
I’ve been using modified HP HSTNS-PL29 server power supply units.
They are extremely well designed and manufactured!
They were originally designed for mission critical servers and were VERY pricey.
They sold for $750@ !
I buy them “refurbished” from a public safety comms company who actually sources NEW units and they only charge…
$250@ .. JUST KIDDING! How much? $25 Shipped!
They are 100-240 VAC 50/50Hz. and.. output VERY clean 12VDC at 65 Amps.
They require a simple modification. 2x 1k ohm resistors to enable them to stay powered on continuously.
(They normally get switched on by the server they are inserted into)
The only problem?
12 Volts DC and not 13.8Vdc. My repeaters really love running on 13.8 (Hytera and Motorola)
There are a few TH-cam videos on modifying them to output 13.8. I just haven’t had the spare time to try.
Good job. 👍
EMI ?
Nice video
When sizing your power supply, you probably should have mentioned that a 35A power supply normally can't supply 35A continuously. The Astron RS-35 is only a 25A power supply. The 35A rating is only on peaks.
Linears are not completely quet. Both Astrons I have, hum. The smaller ones also hum.
And need to mention crazy high magnetic field within 3 feet of any linear supply. Keep Away from them when operatiing! Especially with heart problems, pacemaker, etc. Not good. I measured magnetic field intensity, much much higher than maximum allowed within 3 feet or closer, any supply 20 amp or higher, keep away, use long power cable, 6 foot+
You are correct that they aren't completely quiet. The linears that I've used have had a barely audible low hum. I can't hear the hum over general ambient household noise, and certainly not over the noise of a radio. You bring up really interesting points with the strong magnetic fields - I've not ever considered that aspect of them. Definitely something to consider.
Well, I hate to be the detractor. Video is well done .., but, since this is about your “first” Power supply it would’ve been nice had you turned the MFJ around and showed us what an Anderson connector looks like. I know it can be searched for, it would’ve just made the video a little more complete for the newbie.
That mfj has everything but the mounting holes for it actually being a cheap computer psu. The front is nice and clean though. I have 2 stacked PS53KX. The only reason for a pyramid and not an Astron, is that the first unit was under 5 ft of water for 12 hours(not with power on)...dried it out...lubed the switches and wiped it down with wd-40. Has been working daily since 2016. It was built in 2004. 2nd one went down to $140 on Amazon...so a no brainer.
Wow, that you were able to recover a power supply from being under 5 feet of water and still have it work well is a testament to the quality of their product. And certainly anything that is that good is well worth the $140 for a second one. Good recommendation. Thanks for sharing.
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 The switching power supplies have their place for sure. But all electronics are only as good as the components they're made of and quality control that lets them out the door...thanks for the video.
Linear power supply are the best
If not moving a radio around, I agree 100%.
More folks should consider using SLA or lithium at home. One battery that can work at home or remote. And no RFI
Thanks
Thank you!
You're very welcome. I'm glad that it worked for you!
"It just works"
Oh where have I heard that before ...
Famous last words, right? :) So far, so good... but who knows how long that will be. Even if the linear or switching supplies goes bad, they helped get me into the hobby and on the air for the first few years, so I'll probably always have a soft spot for them.
I don’t use transformer I try designing a transformer less liner power supply it’s just works using higher voltage transistor and good wire wound resistor and lm393 ic it’s really lightweight 2 pound
Yaesu makes a great linear PS and it won't break the bank
Yaesu does make quality products - is there a particular model that you would recommend?
@@transmittinguntilrobotsrep1045 the 1030. All you need for 100w plus accessories and no noise according to my PX3.
@@EricFullwood Thank you for the recommendation!
@@EricFullwoodit's $270! The switcher is $50 or so on AE.
That's a great linear supply, but the output generates a bit of common mode noise, especially at lower frequencies. I made a video demonstrating it, and showing a few ways to mitigate that noise: th-cam.com/video/lQQHlbOMOuw/w-d-xo.html
Like anything else you bye,
do heed the reviews. As far as switching supplies go, spend a little more. They are quiet.
Agreed. "Buy once, cry once" is a generally sound practice when it comes to radio gear.
Bravo
Why thank you MadDog! We appreciate the feedback. Feel free to let us know if there is anything else ham radio related you'd like for us to make a video on... We have about 4 in the works, but are always open to new ideas. 73- AC3DS
Complex components are mainly irreparable and cause of environmental pollution. Our resources and efforts are more vulnerable than business and light weight. We are making /creating more pollution by frequent upgrading and latest trending designs. Smps has highest probability of outside unwanted manipulations hacking by adding few extra component easily unnoticed.
Linear...
Agreed, for a stationary station, linear is the way to go.
My VS50M has no fans. It just works.
linear all the way.
Yeah, for a radio that stays stationary, and if you have the space, I'm in agreement.
Linear all day long
Yep - that is the general sentiment!
i really dont like Switching power supply , that noise is really bad ...
I've heard/read some horror stories, but thankfully have been spared the worst of it so far. Lots of manufacturers and models out there, so there are probably some excellent ones and some duds. I always land up reading reviews on eHam and other sites before buying. To each their own though. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Добра работа. И двете захранвания имат предимства.
Agreed. Both have their time and place. A well engineered power supply in either configuration should work just fine. 73.
My ASTRON RS-70M was hit by lightning and it fried it unfortunately so it was trashed.The main transformer was toast as well.🥲
I ended up choosing a battery for my station, since I really only see myself operating HF portable, due to the fact that I live in an apartment. My battery is a 50Ah LiFePO₄ type.
73 VE7NDE
RE: NOISE. LIAR
Hi Harold, Thanks for joining in the conversation. Could you expand on your thoughts a bit? Our experiences may be different and it is good for the hobby that we all share what we've experienced. It will help others to make good and informed decisions. 73.