[Elecraft] OT: Popular power supply query

[Jim N4KH]

I'm using a fairly new Astron RS-35M here with an Alinco DM-340MV as back
up. I much prefer linear supplies to switching ones. 

Both are good supplies in my opinion. I've used the Alinco for 3 or 4 years
with zero problems but got nervous about the Alinco's lack of a overvoltage
protection circuit, and fan noise can be a minor annoyance under heavy duty
cycle.

There is no fan on the Astron to make noise (just heavy heatsinks) and I
like that. The lack of voltage regulation on the Astron meter lighting
circuit causes the lights to vary as a function of load on the supply, why
they designed it that way I'll never know. I plan to either just cut the
wire to the lights or go with regulated LEDs. 

Without regard to brand I personally would look for a supply with
overvoltage protection for the load (versus various circuits that might
protect the supply). Otherwise any failure mode in the supply that causes
loss of regulation and significant increase in output voltage could severely
damage/destroy your expensive rig(s). A shorted pass transistor for example.
I believe most all the Astron's have crowbar circuits.

Jim, N4KH

-----Original Message-----
From: elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:elecraft-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Bill
Sent: Monday, June 11, 2012 6:39 PM
To: elecraft at mailman.qth.net
Subject: [Elecraft] OT: Popular power supply query

Time has come to purchase a new power supply - the 33 year old Astron has
passed on. What are the popular and reliable supplies being used these days?
If there are some to seriously stay away from, please so state.

Thanks,

Bill W2BLC

--
IN GOD I TRUST (but, NOT a single politician)
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