Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => Tube Amp Building - Tweaks - Repairs => Topic started by: Fresh_Start on July 04, 2010, 12:29:23 pm

Title: Power & Standby switch alternatives
Post by: Fresh_Start on July 04, 2010, 12:29:23 pm

I'm finishing up the specs for my never-ending SE design.  Someone on AX84 suggested This Switch (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=RRA32H3BBRLNvirtualkey54010000virtualkey540-RRA32H3BBRLN).  Other than the price, the big appeal to me is a round hole.  Are the specs sufficient for an amp?  Anyone else used this brand?

NKK also makes lighted rocker switches, but they're more expensive and require a rectangular hole.  Is that a more reputable brand?  Frankly, I'd prefer to use Hoffman's Marshall rocker switches at that price point.

I'm also planning on a double-pole/single throw Standby switch between the PT and the rectifier diodes.  Probably overkill and who really needs a Standby switch anyway, but...  Would the same specs be adequate at that point in the circuit?  My concern is that there would be effectively 275 volts AC across the switch if I'm understanding this right.  PT rated 275-0-275.  See 3rd drawing down at Valve Wizard (http://www.freewebs.com/valvewizard1/standby.html).  Merlin says this is a better spot because of the lower AC voltage compared to the rectified DC voltage.  What if your PT is rated 350-0-350 or higher?

Thanks for your thoughts,

Chip

Title: Re: Power & Standby switch alternatives
Post by: bigdaddy on July 04, 2010, 04:15:27 pm

I put my switch after the rectifier after reading the valve wizard's articles. I never had an issue so far. No pops and no arching.