change the voltage setting from 115 V to 220V

[Jempie]

I have bought a DAC from California Audio Labs, used for 115 V
now a want the change the voltage into 220V there must a easy way to convert it

 

[Javin5]

Open the DAC and check the power transformer. Often, they have two primary windings, which are connected in parallel for 115 VAC and in series for 230 VAC. Otherwise, you may use an external step down transformer from 230 to 115 VAC. A third possibility would be to replace the internal transformer against a 230 VAC type with the same secondary voltages.

Kurt

 

[Jempie]

Dear Kurt,

a step down transformer, is not possible here.
There must be a way to make a selection on the print with a jumper
and I also need an schematic drawing.

thanks...

 

[bob91343]

A less desirable alternative is to add a series impedance to drop the extra potential. This would require that the unit draw a relatively constant current.

 

[kevinkr]

A less desirable alternative is to add a series impedance to drop the extra potential. This would require that the unit draw a relatively constant current.

Growing up overseas in 220V territory (1970s) and watching what happened to American appliances and electronics used with devices other than a step down (auto)transformer quickly convinced me of the merits of using a transformer. It really is the safest way. A small auto-transformer rated for 100VA or so should not cost much and would be quite compact.

CAL has been out of business for a long time, so finding schematics for this dac may not be easy, but hopefully not hopeless. I would inquire over at Audio Asylum as well as here.

I am not sure how much export business CAL did in its heyday, but it is not unusual for US market products to be 120V/50-60Hz only.. The best way is to check for dual primaries - usually if fitted you will see a board with a pair of soldered jumpers marked for 120V (sometimes not) and a pair of empty holes sometimes marked for 230V. If the board has these features it should be simple enough to remove the two jumpers and replace with a single jumper in the correct location. To test use a ballast lamp (a 25W 240V bulb should be ok) in series with the mains to the dac and verify that everything is ok. (If not that lamp will be glowing very brightly.)