Tom W8JI designed the AL-80A which is the same amp as the SB-1000 in a
different looking box. He claims a step start is not needed, however later
versions of the AL-80A did have them. When Tom was asked why they were later
installed he said because users "like the idea" of having them. He still
maintained it did not need it. My experience with them is they do "bang"
pretty hard when first turned on. Let's put it this way, a step start can't
hurt whether it is needed or not. So as Tom says, if it makes you feel
better, put it in.
In a message dated 2/23/2010 8:09:38 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,
ws1l@comcast.net writes:
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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