[Hallicrafters] Solid state rectifier and matching 6V6s

[jeremy-ca]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Glen Zook" <gzook at yahoo.com>
To: "jeremy-ca" <km1h at jeremy.mv.com>; "Edward B Richards" <zuu6k at juno.com>
Cc: <lrlayton at cox.net>; <iluznst at yahoo.com>; <hallicrafters at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2007 11:09 AM
Subject: Re: [Hallicrafters] Solid state rectifier and matching 6V6s


> Considering the cost of copper wire these days using a
> filament transformer in a voltage "bucking" type
> circuit will generally be much cheaper.  Remember that
> the price of copper has gone up over 300% in the past
> year, or so.
>
>>From Mouser 18 gauge "zip" cord runs $342.71 for 1000
> feet (no shorter lengths available).  Part number
> 566-8888-1000-08 (Belden part number 8888).

The savings only hold if you have to go out and buy it new at retail; in 
that case other options are more cost effective.

All Electronics has 500' of #18 @ $92 and #22 at $41 as a comparison. A 100' 
length of #22 will drop a 70W load by almost 11V

Ive picked up #18 zip cord this past year at a fleamarket for $5 for roughly 
400'. With many period lamps, console and table radios here I go thru a lot 
just playing safe.

Scrap copper prices are dropping rapidly also, down over $1/lb in the past 6 
months.

And as I said yesterday there are several good options to dropping voltage; 
simply use what works for you and quit harping on what is "best" for 
everyone.

On a similar note the use of a CVT was mentioned. Be aware that these 
require a minimum load to operate properly otherwise they can overheat if 
nothing is attached and turned on. Some versions can also create noise on 
the line. Read the specs before using one. I use a 1KVA Sola for my ham 
station which feeds various xcvrs, transverters, PS, rotators, etc. One very 
noticable benefit besides the lower equipment heat is the lower backround 
noise in the receivers. A pair of 500VA units run the PC's and accessories 
in my home office and keep birdies out of radios.

Carl
KM1H