Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => Tube Amp Building - Tweaks - Repairs => Topic started by: VMS on January 09, 2018, 04:49:50 pm

Title: Channel switching question
Post by: VMS on January 09, 2018, 04:49:50 pm
Can the power source for the relays be put on footswitch enclosure and how much relays usually need current?


I was thinking maybe batteries or pedalpower with 12vdc output
Title: Re: Channel switching question
Post by: shooter on January 09, 2018, 05:05:39 pm
where's the relay gonna be?, if it's in the amp should be fine, if you route signals to a pedal with relay that might get ugly.

this is from doug's relay page;

Quote
The relay has a 5 volt coil rated at 40ma
Title: Re: Channel switching question
Post by: dennyg on January 09, 2018, 05:22:00 pm
Like Shooter said, running the power from a board back to the amp isn't ideal.  The only relays I've used are the one's Doug sells - I think they draw around 20-30ma each when engaged.  It's very easy to tap your 6.3V heater supply to feed a 5V regulated relay supply, and Doug's board is small, or you could build the circuit on a small piece of turret or eyelet board.  You only need a bridge, 7805 regulator and large value cap (4700uf or so).  The current thru the footswitch will also power an led on/off indicator in most standard footswitch pedals. 
Title: Re: Channel switching question
Post by: VMS on January 09, 2018, 05:47:50 pm
Relays would be in amp. I guess i'm worried that tapping to heater supply induces noise to the circuit.


I also have this london power ERK kit that can be powered from center-tapped plate winding (my plate winding doesn't have center-tap so this is a problem maybe) or it can also be powered with -12VDC source
Title: Re: Channel switching question
Post by: tubenit on January 09, 2018, 07:52:40 pm
There is an abundance of info on relay switching here in ARCHIVES:

http://el34world.com/Forum/index.php?topic=14348.0

Maybe looking over this would be useful in making a decision?

With respect, Tubenit
Title: Re: Channel switching question
Post by: VMS on January 10, 2018, 08:32:05 am
Thanks guys.


I think I can use the capacitor coupling method to get the power for the ERK from the HT winding. So i'm going to try that first.