[Elecraft] Question about 120 volts vs. 240 volts house supply to KPA 500

Jim Brown jim at audiosystemsgroup.com
Thu Sep 19 13:06:09 EDT 2024


On 9/19/2024 9:34 AM, Bernie and Cheryl wrote:
> My question would be whether it would lessen the wear and tear on the 
> amp if I switched to 240 volts?
Since AC line current at 240V is half that at 120V, there would be less 
IR drop, so the amp would see a bit higher voltage, with a smaller 
difference under load. That's good for the amp, but not a big deal, and 
pulling in a 240V line can be expensive, depending on the layout and 
construction of your home. It mostly comes down how you can get wiring 
from the panel to the shack.

An easy way to tell if there's any benefit -- set the front panel meter 
to show DC voltage, and watch the difference between idle and transmit.

73, Jim K9YC


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