[Amps] Step Start

[Paul Christensen]

> Seems like the delay would only need to be long enough to limit the inrush 
> current to the safe level specified for the tube filament and power supply 
> diodes.  In most cases I've encounter, 1/2 to 1 second is plenty.

Speaking of Step-Start circuits, I recommend placing a fuse of suitable size 
in series with one of the step-start resistors.  If the circuit "steps" but 
fails to "start," which results in a failure of the relay contact closure 
around the power resistors, the resistors will super-heat, quickly turn to 
shrapnel, and make for one nasty clean-up and repair job.  It's a lot more 
fun changing a fuse than a pair of power resistors.

-Paul, W9AC