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pettefar · 04-11-2006, 02:47 AM

Well it's a "switch-mode" PSU which means it rectifies the incoming mains to create about 400V DC and then uses big transistors to turn it back into AC but at a very much higher frequency. A transformer is then used to get the desired output Voltage ie 12V and the normal rectifying, smoothing and regulating takes place. The transformer and later components can be very small as they are much more efficient at higher frequencies. You can design these beasts to draw minimal current with no load but I guess this one isn't. PCs use the same types of PSU. I will see if I can find an alternate 12V PSU for the Snap Server.

Nick

04-11-2006, 02:47 AM	#40
pettefar Cooling Neophyte Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: SW England Posts: 26	Re: New User New Machine Probably Old Questions Well it's a "switch-mode" PSU which means it rectifies the incoming mains to create about 400V DC and then uses big transistors to turn it back into AC but at a very much higher frequency. A transformer is then used to get the desired output Voltage ie 12V and the normal rectifying, smoothing and regulating takes place. The transformer and later components can be very small as they are much more efficient at higher frequencies. You can design these beasts to draw minimal current with no load but I guess this one isn't. PCs use the same types of PSU. I will see if I can find an alternate 12V PSU for the Snap Server. Nick