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[Amps] Step Start circuit - needed or not?

To: <amps@contesting.com>, <heathKit_HFAmps@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: [Amps] Step Start circuit - needed or not?
From: "Chuck Chandler" <ws1l@comcast.net>
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 2010 07:06:18 -0600
List-post: <amps@contesting.com">mailto:amps@contesting.com>
I'm the new owner of a Heathkit SB-1000 amp, running it on 120 VAC.  It is 
replacing my AL-811.  When I bought the 811 I also bought an Ameritron Inrush 
Current Protector, and have always used it to turn the amp on and off.

Now with the SB-1000 and reading recent posts on-line, I am wondering if I need 
the inrush current protector?  I am considering installing a step start circuit 
inside the SB-1000, which will do the same thing... but I am not sure it is 
necessary.

I'm reading that the turn-on surge is only likely to really stress the power 
switch, and the SB-1000 switch is rated at like 18A, well over the normal 
current, but who knows how high it spikes when the caps are getting that first 
cycle?  And, of course, that's only for a very brief time.

So, is a step-start of some type really needed?  If so, why don't more amps 
come with it?  


73 de Chuck, WS1L

Oak Grove, MS - EM51
ws1l@comcast.net
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