Choosing a Power Supply for Your Station
Basic models just change 125VAC to 13VDC. Typical add-on features include volt/amp meters, multiple power outputs, noise offset controls to minimize RFI, variable
Power Requirements: Base stations operate on 120V AC power rather than 12V DC, requiring either built-in power supplies or separate AC-to-DC converters. Size and Ergonomics: Designed for desktop use, these radios feature full-size controls, making operation more comfortable during extended sessions.
To the average layperson, all this sounds overly complicated. So to simplify the process, here are some general guidelines for choosing the right size power supply for your radio. Use the manufacturer's amp rating of the radio as the rule. Use the maximum, or peak load rating of the radio, not the standby or typical draw.
How Much Power? Power supplies are often rated by their continuous and intermittent/peak (ICS) current capacities. The figure you want to look at is the continuous rating—the amount of current the power supply can provide. For example, the Samlex SEC-1235P-M switching power supply is rated 30A continuous output, 36A peak.
Power supplies come in a variety of configurations, from simple to full-featured. Basic models just change 125VAC to 13VDC. Typical add-on features include volt/amp meters, multiple power outputs, noise offset controls to minimize RFI, variable voltage output controls, and over-temperature protection.
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