I work with Computers all day, and have a few APC 450's that have gone bad. What should I snag? Caps, transformers? Has anyone else on here grabbed parts off of them?
The inverter transformers often have more turns than a normal mains one, so if you reverse it and use it for normal stuff, it will generally not go =BUMP= when you turn it on like big trannies generally do. Or so the ones I have don't anyway.
PSU parts
DEFINITELY get the transformer. If you can unwind it (counting the turns, first) you can use it for your own SMPS. There are lots of plug-n-chug formulae out there for figuring the number of turns for any frequency, if you know the core material type. Also, the output diodes, inductors, and controller chip (usually a TL494, sometimes labelled KIA7500). Don't bother with the low voltage output caps, as they are usually of lower quality than what we audio DIY'ers would use.
Hope this helps!
'73,
N8XO
DEFINITELY get the transformer. If you can unwind it (counting the turns, first) you can use it for your own SMPS. There are lots of plug-n-chug formulae out there for figuring the number of turns for any frequency, if you know the core material type. Also, the output diodes, inductors, and controller chip (usually a TL494, sometimes labelled KIA7500). Don't bother with the low voltage output caps, as they are usually of lower quality than what we audio DIY'ers would use.
Hope this helps!'73,
N8XO
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