Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
thought this thread was over Bob On Tue, 26 Feb 2019 09:17:16 -0800 Ron Genovesi writes: > Astron used to make s great supply. I have the same problem with > RS-35M less then a year old. > Worked fine for 8 or 9 months then developed a bad hum or buzz. I > got tired of listening to it and pulled out a 35 Amp switching > supply. Haven�t had the time to pull it apart yet. > > Ron Genovesi >N3ETA > Sent from my iPhone > > > On Feb 26, 2019, at 8:12 AM, Ignacy wrote: > > > > I wanted to love a 45A Astron but it was heavy and hummed. Sold > for peanuts > > at a hamfest. > > > > Replaced by Jetstream JTPS32MAB. Probably same as MFJ-4230MV and > many > > others. Small, quiet and cheap. Excellent regulation. If it dies, > it is $80. > > > > Ignacy, NO9E > > > > > > > > -- > > Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ > > __ > > Elecraft mailing list > > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > > Please help support this email list: > http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
Our use of the power supplies was on mountain top repeater and remote base sites. Access was generally time-consuming and sometimes impossible at various times of the year. The Astrons, while they could be repaired and made to work ... at least for awhile ... were just too unreliable and unpredictable for such service. We ultimately lucked into some Rockwell/Collins rack mounts that had been removed from service and were at a government surplus auction. The were rock solid. We had to do a little modification to get the regulated voltage down from 18 to 14 but that turned out to be two resistors. They'll probably run until Antarctica melts. Neither side of the outputs [there were two] were connected to the frame. Only downside was that it took two strong guys to position them in the rack while a third installed the screws. [:-) If the PS is under or on your desk or table, the reliability issue would be a lot less. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 2/26/2019 3:06 PM, Ron Genovesi wrote: Maybe they were bought out by MFJ ;-) Ron Genovesi N3ETA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
Maybe they were bought out by MFJ ;-) Ron Genovesi N3ETA Sent from my iPhone > On Feb 25, 2019, at 10:07 PM, Jim Brown wrote: > > YES! This is a chronic problem with Astron supplies -- I've never seen one > that didn't have this problem! I first discovered and documented this issue > almost 10 years ago. In one supply, the two clam-shell sections of the > chassis were also insulated from each other by paint! This failure could > easily cause instability! > > http://k9yc.com/PowerSupplyBondingAndAudioDistortion.pdf > > 73, Jim K9YC > >> On 2/25/2019 6:24 PM, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote: >> I have personally found several instances in power supplies I either own or >> have repaired where the green power wire lug is firmly attached by the bolt >> and nut. It however was nicely insulated by the paint!. Visual >> inspection is the best way to determine if an issue exists. Do take time to >> remove the bolt and nut securing the wire lug to the chassis. Clean the >> area to bright shining metal where the lug would come in contact with the >> chassis. Then reattach the green wire and lug with the original nut and >> bolt. > > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
Thanks I’ll give it a try. Ron Genovesi N3ETA Sent from my iPhone > On Feb 26, 2019, at 9:54 AM, Dennis Moore wrote: > > I picked up a RS-50 from a SK estate, it had a terrible hum. Took the cover > off and tightened all the hardware, hum went away. > > 73, Dennis NJ6G > >> On 2/26/2019 09:17, Ron Genovesi wrote: >> Astron used to make s great supply. I have the same problem with RS-35M less >> then a year old. >> Worked fine for 8 or 9 months then developed a bad hum or buzz. I got tired >> of listening to it and pulled out a 35 Amp switching supply. Haven’t had the >> time to pull it apart yet. >> >> Ron Genovesi >>N3ETA > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
A little piece of cork between the TX and the front of the case fixed my 50's hum! There was something similar from the factory that had fallen out over time. Hank K4HYJ -Original Message- > From: "Dennis Moore" > Cc: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Date: 02/26/19 12:54 > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues > > I picked up a RS-50 from a SK estate, it had a terrible hum. Took the > cover off and tightened all the hardware, hum went away. > > 73, Dennis NJ6G > > On 2/26/2019 09:17, Ron Genovesi wrote: > > Astron used to make s great supply. I have the same problem with RS-35M > > less then a year old. > > Worked fine for 8 or 9 months then developed a bad hum or buzz. I got tired > > of listening to it and pulled out a 35 Amp switching supply. Haven’t had > > the time to pull it apart yet. > > > > Ron Genovesi > > N3ETA > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I picked up a RS-50 from a SK estate, it had a terrible hum. Took the cover off and tightened all the hardware, hum went away. 73, Dennis NJ6G On 2/26/2019 09:17, Ron Genovesi wrote: Astron used to make s great supply. I have the same problem with RS-35M less then a year old. Worked fine for 8 or 9 months then developed a bad hum or buzz. I got tired of listening to it and pulled out a 35 Amp switching supply. Haven’t had the time to pull it apart yet. Ron Genovesi N3ETA __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
The nice thing about those linear power supplies, though, was that you COULD repair them. 73, Scott K9MA On 2/26/2019 09:52, Phil Kane wrote: On 2/25/2019 6:36 PM, Kevin McQuiggin (SFU) wrote: Not to sound like some old codger, but perhaps designs aren’t as robust as they used to be. More marketplace incentive to replace rather than to repair. Then again, no longer having a workshop or good close-up visual acuity any more, replace is the most viable option for me. I'm not getting old - I AM old (first licensed in 1952 as a teenager).-- 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane Elecraft K2/100 s/n 5402 From a Clearing in the Silicon Forest Beaverton (Washington County) Oregon __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html -- Scott K9MA k...@sdellington.us __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
On 2/26/2019 07:37, Jim - N4ST wrote: (The meter lights have been gone so long, I forgot it had meter lights.) Speaking of meter lights: Those #47 bulbs never lasted long at 6 V, so I used to put a resistor in series with them. Nowadays, a white LED, rectifier, and a resistor would work fine, and you would never have to replace it again. 73, Scott K9MA -- Scott K9MA k...@sdellington.us __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
Astron used to make s great supply. I have the same problem with RS-35M less then a year old. Worked fine for 8 or 9 months then developed a bad hum or buzz. I got tired of listening to it and pulled out a 35 Amp switching supply. Haven’t had the time to pull it apart yet. Ron Genovesi N3ETA Sent from my iPhone > On Feb 26, 2019, at 8:12 AM, Ignacy wrote: > > I wanted to love a 45A Astron but it was heavy and hummed. Sold for peanuts > at a hamfest. > > Replaced by Jetstream JTPS32MAB. Probably same as MFJ-4230MV and many > others. Small, quiet and cheap. Excellent regulation. If it dies, it is $80. > > Ignacy, NO9E > > > > -- > Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I wanted to love a 45A Astron but it was heavy and hummed. Sold for peanuts at a hamfest. Replaced by Jetstream JTPS32MAB. Probably same as MFJ-4230MV and many others. Small, quiet and cheap. Excellent regulation. If it dies, it is $80. Ignacy, NO9E -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.com/ __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
On 2/25/2019 6:36 PM, Kevin McQuiggin (SFU) wrote: > Not to sound like some old codger, but perhaps designs aren’t as robust as > they used to be. More marketplace incentive to replace rather than to repair. Then again, no longer having a workshop or good close-up visual acuity any more, replace is the most viable option for me. I'm not getting old - I AM old (first licensed in 1952 as a teenager).-- 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane Elecraft K2/100 s/n 5402 From a Clearing in the Silicon Forest Beaverton (Washington County) Oregon __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
My Astron 35M has been in use since ~1990. I had to repair it after a lightning strike that melted the tip of my 2M Ringo Ranger. (The meter lights have been gone so long, I forgot it had meter lights.) A few years ago, I bought a new 35M and it was defective. Returned it for a 2nd one that was also defective. Went to the store and had them fire up a 3rd one that worked properly before I would leave the store with it. Guess they don't make them (QC) like they used to. _ 73, Jim - N4ST __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
On 2/25/2019 7:58 PM, h...@optilink.us wrote: Funny though, when I find a supply with the -VDC tied to chassis ground, I always pull it - some Astrons do and some don't. All of our other linear supplies float (HP, QJE, Acopian). RIGHT! 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
YES! This is a chronic problem with Astron supplies -- I've never seen one that didn't have this problem! I first discovered and documented this issue almost 10 years ago. In one supply, the two clam-shell sections of the chassis were also insulated from each other by paint! This failure could easily cause instability! http://k9yc.com/PowerSupplyBondingAndAudioDistortion.pdf 73, Jim K9YC On 2/25/2019 6:24 PM, Bob McGraw K4TAX wrote: I have personally found several instances in power supplies I either own or have repaired where the green power wire lug is firmly attached by the bolt and nut. It however was nicely insulated by the paint!. Visual inspection is the best way to determine if an issue exists. Do take time to remove the bolt and nut securing the wire lug to the chassis. Clean the area to bright shining metal where the lug would come in contact with the chassis. Then reattach the green wire and lug with the original nut and bolt. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I have had very good results with Astron, but I treat their products like MFJ's: When I get a new one, I always open it up, check that everything is tight, remove paint if needed, look at the soldering, etc. It is worth checking the tightness of the connections to the capacitors every 20 years or so. The alternative to an Astron linear supply is usually a switcher, and I try to avoid switchers when possible for reasons of electrical noise and reliability. 73, Victor, 4X6GP Rehovot, Israel Formerly K2VCO CWops no. 5 http://www.qsl.net/k2vco/ On 26 Feb 2019 00:51, Fred Jensen wrote: I've given up on Astron despite the fact that many people say they never have troubles. Apparently, Astron does not have a supplier for inside star washers for screw/bolt connectors, I've found almost crumbly, crystallized cold solder joints on the point-to-point wiring terminals [in one case, it wasn't soldered at all], and often the case is not bonded well [or at all] due to paint and/or no star washers. These are all basic steps in quality electronic construction, there's just no excuse for it. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 2/25/2019 2:26 PM, Rose wrote: I've found instances of regulation failures caused by loose hardware. In particular the nuts atop the filter caps that hold the regulator PC board loosen and simply tightening then will cure the issue. This appears to be caused by compression of the PC board material …"cold flow" to some readers. There are several other common failures of this series of PS's, but this one is perhaps the most prevalent. While you have the cover off, check for paint under the lug on the green power cord wire … 73! Len Kopp- K0PP __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I have 2 Astrons and they are great supplies. On both replaced the caps and all was very quiet Ken WB8PKK Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android On Mon, Feb 25, 2019 at 8:04 PM, h...@optilink.us wrote: Filter caps bad? AC on the DC supply side maybe? A well made linear supply does not make noise that has to be filtered otherwise. All switching supplies must be cleaned up because their design generates noise. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of K9MA Sent: Monday, February 25, 2019 8:13 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues That's interesting. About the only way I know that a linear supply can be noisy is if the regulator oscillates. That can easily happen. Most of them use emitter followers, which are often unstable driving a capacitive load. That's usually easy to fix by inserting a small inductance between the emitter of the transistor and the load. A few turns of the appropriate sized wire around a ferrite bead usually works. 73, Scott K9MA On 2/25/2019 18:57, William Rascher wrote: > On Monday, February 25, 2019 4:26:40 PM CST Rose wrote: >> I've found instances of regulation failures caused by loose hardware. > With the RS-35m Astron Linear PS I have issues with noise. I > purchased the PS because everyone around me swears that they are > great. Well, from my experience the Powerwerx SS-30DV is far cleaner, > quieter, and fewer $$. I though the problem was something along the line of LED lighting, in my > shack was generating the noise. When I used a battery for the PX3 & KX3 > in my shack during a power outage the PX3 screen was so clear I was > stunned. I have 3 different Astron linear PS and all are noisy. -- Scott K9MA k...@sdellington.us __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
Filter caps bad? AC on the DC supply side maybe? A well made linear supply does not make noise that has to be filtered otherwise. All switching supplies must be cleaned up because their design generates noise. -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of K9MA Sent: Monday, February 25, 2019 8:13 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues That's interesting. About the only way I know that a linear supply can be noisy is if the regulator oscillates. That can easily happen. Most of them use emitter followers, which are often unstable driving a capacitive load. That's usually easy to fix by inserting a small inductance between the emitter of the transistor and the load. A few turns of the appropriate sized wire around a ferrite bead usually works. 73, Scott K9MA On 2/25/2019 18:57, William Rascher wrote: > On Monday, February 25, 2019 4:26:40 PM CST Rose wrote: >> I've found instances of regulation failures caused by loose hardware. > With the RS-35m Astron Linear PS I have issues with noise. I > purchased the PS because everyone around me swears that they are > great. Well, from my experience the Powerwerx SS-30DV is far cleaner, > quieter, and fewer $$. I though the problem was something along the line of LED lighting, in my > shack was generating the noise. When I used a battery for the PX3 & KX3 > in my shack during a power outage the PX3 screen was so clear I was > stunned.I have 3 different Astron linear PS and all are noisy. -- Scott K9MA k...@sdellington.us __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I bought a Rackmount 35amp Astron when I started working at my office (the office bought it). We turned it on in 1993 and it is still on today. I have a 50 amp at home that besides the crappy meter lights (they now are illuminated by LEDs!), runs like a champ. Funny though, when I find a supply with the -VDC tied to chassis ground, I always pull it - some Astrons do and some don't. All of our other linear supplies float (HP, QJE, Acopian). Keeps ground loops at bay! 73, Hank K4HYJ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Randy Farmer Sent: Monday, February 25, 2019 10:24 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues I have two recent vintage Astron RS-35M units. They still use the exact same 723-based regulator circuit that they have used for thirty years or more, so the design hasn't changed. What **may** have changed is the build quality. I carefully inspected both of mine right after taking delivery. I made sure the green wire from the AC cord was securely bonded to the chassis and checked for obvious soldering problems. I also tied the negative output line to the chassis. They have both been running like trains 24-7 for the last three years or so. The only failures I've had (on both units) are the stupid internal meter lamps. 73... Randy, W8FN On 2/25/2019 8:36 PM, Kevin McQuiggin (SFU) wrote: > I have a ~30-year old Astron 13.8 VDC 20-amp supply that I got when it was > retired from a project at work. I used it for low current applications for a > few years, then it went to storage for about 5 years. > > One of the two power transistors failed a few months ago and this took out > some other components. I had put it back into service in a 5-10 amp > application. I figure that the failure was likely just due to age and the > fact that the supply had been in storage for a few years. > > I replaced both of the power transistors, two blown diodes, the > electrolytics, and a couple of ICs and other components, and the supply is > running fine again. Solid output at 10 amps load. > > Given its age I am extremely happy with it. The internal quality and > components seemed good, but that may have been due to its > design/manufacturing era. Not to sound like some old codger, but perhaps > designs aren’t as robust as they used to be. > > Kevin, VE7ZD __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I have two recent vintage Astron RS-35M units. They still use the exact same 723-based regulator circuit that they have used for thirty years or more, so the design hasn't changed. What **may** have changed is the build quality. I carefully inspected both of mine right after taking delivery. I made sure the green wire from the AC cord was securely bonded to the chassis and checked for obvious soldering problems. I also tied the negative output line to the chassis. They have both been running like trains 24-7 for the last three years or so. The only failures I've had (on both units) are the stupid internal meter lamps. 73... Randy, W8FN On 2/25/2019 8:36 PM, Kevin McQuiggin (SFU) wrote: I have a ~30-year old Astron 13.8 VDC 20-amp supply that I got when it was retired from a project at work. I used it for low current applications for a few years, then it went to storage for about 5 years. One of the two power transistors failed a few months ago and this took out some other components. I had put it back into service in a 5-10 amp application. I figure that the failure was likely just due to age and the fact that the supply had been in storage for a few years. I replaced both of the power transistors, two blown diodes, the electrolytics, and a couple of ICs and other components, and the supply is running fine again. Solid output at 10 amps load. Given its age I am extremely happy with it. The internal quality and components seemed good, but that may have been due to its design/manufacturing era. Not to sound like some old codger, but perhaps designs aren’t as robust as they used to be. Kevin, VE7ZD __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I have a ~30-year old Astron 13.8 VDC 20-amp supply that I got when it was retired from a project at work. I used it for low current applications for a few years, then it went to storage for about 5 years. One of the two power transistors failed a few months ago and this took out some other components. I had put it back into service in a 5-10 amp application. I figure that the failure was likely just due to age and the fact that the supply had been in storage for a few years. I replaced both of the power transistors, two blown diodes, the electrolytics, and a couple of ICs and other components, and the supply is running fine again. Solid output at 10 amps load. Given its age I am extremely happy with it. The internal quality and components seemed good, but that may have been due to its design/manufacturing era. Not to sound like some old codger, but perhaps designs aren’t as robust as they used to be. Kevin, VE7ZD Sent from my iPad > On Feb 25, 2019, at 17:29, wrote: > > Who makes a better linear power supply, especially large ones? > > John KK9A > > Fred Jensen k6dgw wrote: > > I've given up on Astron despite the fact that many people say they never > have troubles. Apparently, Astron does not have a supplier for inside > star washers for screw/bolt connectors, I've found almost crumbly, > crystallized cold solder joints on the point-to-point wiring terminals > [in one case, it wasn't soldered at all], and often the case is not > bonded well [or at all] due to paint and/or no star washers. These are > all basic steps in quality electronic construction, there's just no > excuse for it. > > 73, > Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW > Sparks NV DM09dn > Washoe County > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I have personally found several instances in power supplies I either own or have repaired where the green power wire lug is firmly attached by the bolt and nut. It however was nicely insulated by the paint!. Visual inspection is the best way to determine if an issue exists. Do take time to remove the bolt and nut securing the wire lug to the chassis. Clean the area to bright shining metal where the lug would come in contact with the chassis. Then reattach the green wire and lug with the original nut and bolt. 73 Bob, K4TAX On 2/25/2019 4:26 PM, Rose wrote: While you have the cover off, check for paint under the lug on the green power cord wire … 73! Len Kopp- K0PP __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
Who makes a better linear power supply, especially large ones? John KK9A Fred Jensen k6dgw wrote: I've given up on Astron despite the fact that many people say they never have troubles. Apparently, Astron does not have a supplier for inside star washers for screw/bolt connectors, I've found almost crumbly, crystallized cold solder joints on the point-to-point wiring terminals [in one case, it wasn't soldered at all], and often the case is not bonded well [or at all] due to paint and/or no star washers. These are all basic steps in quality electronic construction, there's just no excuse for it. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
That's interesting. About the only way I know that a linear supply can be noisy is if the regulator oscillates. That can easily happen. Most of them use emitter followers, which are often unstable driving a capacitive load. That's usually easy to fix by inserting a small inductance between the emitter of the transistor and the load. A few turns of the appropriate sized wire around a ferrite bead usually works. 73, Scott K9MA On 2/25/2019 18:57, William Rascher wrote: On Monday, February 25, 2019 4:26:40 PM CST Rose wrote: I've found instances of regulation failures caused by loose hardware. With the RS-35m Astron Linear PS I have issues with noise. I purchased the PS because everyone around me swears that they are great. Well, from my experience the Powerwerx SS-30DV is far cleaner, quieter, and fewer $$. I though the problem was something along the line of LED lighting, in my shack was generating the noise. When I used a battery for the PX3 & KX3 in my shack during a power outage the PX3 screen was so clear I was stunned.I have 3 different Astron linear PS and all are noisy. -- Scott K9MA k...@sdellington.us __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
On Monday, February 25, 2019 4:26:40 PM CST Rose wrote: > I've found instances of regulation failures caused > by loose hardware. With the RS-35m Astron Linear PS I have issues with noise. I purchased the PS because everyone around me swears that they are great. Well, from my experience the Powerwerx SS-30DV is far cleaner, quieter, and fewer $$. I though the problem was something along the line of LED lighting, in my shack was generating the noise. When I used a battery for the PX3 & KX3 in my shack during a power outage the PX3 screen was so clear I was stunned.I have 3 different Astron linear PS and all are noisy. -- 73, Bill KT5TE __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
How old is your PS? 73, Bill K9YEQ https://wrj-tech.com/ -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net On Behalf Of Fred Jensen Sent: Monday, February 25, 2019 4:52 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues I've given up on Astron despite the fact that many people say they never have troubles. Apparently, Astron does not have a supplier for inside star washers for screw/bolt connectors, I've found almost crumbly, crystallized cold solder joints on the point-to-point wiring terminals [in one case, it wasn't soldered at all], and often the case is not bonded well [or at all] due to paint and/or no star washers. These are all basic steps in quality electronic construction, there's just no excuse for it. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 2/25/2019 2:26 PM, Rose wrote: > I've found instances of regulation failures caused by loose hardware. > In particular the nuts atop the filter caps that hold the regulator PC > board loosen and simply tightening then will cure the issue. This > appears to be caused by compression of the PC board material …"cold > flow" to some readers. > > There are several other common failures of this series of PS's, but > this one is perhaps the most prevalent. > > While you have the cover off, check for paint under the lug on the > green power cord wire … > > 73! > > Len Kopp- K0PP > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Re: [Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I've given up on Astron despite the fact that many people say they never have troubles. Apparently, Astron does not have a supplier for inside star washers for screw/bolt connectors, I've found almost crumbly, crystallized cold solder joints on the point-to-point wiring terminals [in one case, it wasn't soldered at all], and often the case is not bonded well [or at all] due to paint and/or no star washers. These are all basic steps in quality electronic construction, there's just no excuse for it. 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 2/25/2019 2:26 PM, Rose wrote: I've found instances of regulation failures caused by loose hardware. In particular the nuts atop the filter caps that hold the regulator PC board loosen and simply tightening then will cure the issue. This appears to be caused by compression of the PC board material …"cold flow" to some readers. There are several other common failures of this series of PS's, but this one is perhaps the most prevalent. While you have the cover off, check for paint under the lug on the green power cord wire … 73! Len Kopp- K0PP __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
[Elecraft] OT: Astron linear PS regulation issues
I've found instances of regulation failures caused by loose hardware. In particular the nuts atop the filter caps that hold the regulator PC board loosen and simply tightening then will cure the issue. This appears to be caused by compression of the PC board material …"cold flow" to some readers. There are several other common failures of this series of PS's, but this one is perhaps the most prevalent. While you have the cover off, check for paint under the lug on the green power cord wire … 73! Len Kopp- K0PP __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
