Few smps and/or amplifier questions

In summary, the problem is that you have two separate transformers and each has its own input signal ground. You need to connect the input signal grounds to the PSU ground.
  • #1
Salvador
505
70
signal ground questionb.png
signal ground questionb.png
Hi folks , maybe you can help me out , so I've built a powerful smps with two separate transformers and secondaries being driven by one common two IGBT half bridge topology.
I have also put 4x500w rms amplifier channels into the box , they are not kit's they are basically discrete component made boards after a well known schematic.

heres the problem , i have launched two of the channels already from one of the two smps transformers and they work.But now I need to wire up the other two channels to the second smps transformer and it's corresponding output , but in the input stage there is signal ground which is tied to each channel and it's then tied to each channels PSU ground via 10ohm resistor and a capacitor in parallel.

Now since i have two separate transformers measuring with a multimeter from one secondary ground across the other i get about 80v DC which is normal because the transformers are not perfectly identical ,
The question then is what should I do with the input signal grounds ? If I simply connect the signal ground to all 4 channels and on each channel a 10ohm resistor to the actual ground then I will get huge currents running from the first two channels to the second two channel grounds and that will be definitely bad.
Should I simply take away the resistors and leave the input grounds connected to the psu ground only via a capacitor?

P.S. I originally put the 10ohm resistor to stop any ground currents in the signal ground because using only a capacitor resulted in some HUM.
I have also done this in one other amplifier I have built before but that ahd only two channels yet each channel had a separate mains transformer psu yet I too lifted the signal ground to the psu ground via the 10ohm resistor , never measured voltages but it works just fine.
Oh and one other question , when I assembled my smps for the second time I used a choke in the input for high frequency noise supression back into the mains.I have taken that pasrt from another big commercial smps , but when I load tested my smps i went above 1KW , probably 1.5kw and the inductor got hot and the varnish burned off , I have some thick copper enamel wire I could wrap my own heavy duty choke but i don't know how much turns of wire I need to make it effective ? I assume it doesn't have to be that specific but some overall value that I could use maybe?
 
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  • #2
as one of the members on PF wrote to me in PM , he would like to know the schematics of the smps itself to say more , so I will post the schematics and our discussion here just in case.

Could you post any schematics? Particularly the smps. (I think you said you built them.)
I don't understand your "80V difference between grounds is normal". I'd have thought, if these are from separate windings, you could just tie them (the grounds) together.
I'd agree, if they are floating, you can get a random voltage difference when tested with a high impedance meter, but I would not expect a constant value and I would not expect any current. What is the rest of the current path if you tie the grounds together? Have you tried tying them through a resistor, say a few k, and measuring the voltage then?thanks for the interest, well since they are both secondary windings they are floating with respect to each other.
I haven't actually thought about tying them together.
but both transformer primaries are powered from a single half bridge two IGBT set so maybe each transformers primary kind of goes 180 degrees out of phase , also each transformers core is a bit different material , I'm not sure how much of a role this plays into the equation.
 

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  • #3
Looking at the schematic, I can't see how there can be a potential between the different grounds. I think they should all be connected to the same conductor.
If they are all separate local grounds, then I can't see how any DC current can flow between them. If you are getting 60mA DC flowing between two "grounds" then I suspect there must be some connection that is not shown on the schematic.

Since you are not getting any help here, I suggest you try http://www.electronicspoint.com
 

FAQ: Few smps and/or amplifier questions

1. What is an SMPS and how does it work?

An SMPS, or Switched-Mode Power Supply, is a type of power supply that converts electrical energy from one form to another through the use of switching devices such as transistors or diodes. It works by taking the incoming AC voltage and converting it to DC voltage through a rectifier, then using a switching circuit to chop the DC voltage into high-frequency pulses. These pulses are then filtered and regulated to produce a stable output voltage.

2. What are the advantages of using an SMPS over a linear power supply?

There are several advantages to using an SMPS over a linear power supply. These include higher efficiency, smaller size and weight, and the ability to handle a wider range of input voltages. Additionally, SMPSs are less affected by changes in load and can provide a more stable output voltage.

3. Can an amplifier be powered by an SMPS?

Yes, an amplifier can be powered by an SMPS. In fact, many modern amplifiers use SMPSs as they are more efficient and can provide the high currents required by power-hungry amplifiers. However, the design of the SMPS must take into account the specific requirements of the amplifier and provide appropriate voltage and current levels.

4. How do I select the right SMPS for my application?

When selecting an SMPS, there are several factors to consider. These include the input voltage range, output voltage and current requirements, efficiency, size and weight, and any special features or protections needed. It is important to carefully evaluate the specifications of different SMPSs to determine which one is the best fit for your specific application.

5. What are some common issues or failures with SMPSs and how can they be prevented?

Some common issues with SMPSs include overloading, overvoltage, and overtemperature conditions. These can be prevented by properly sizing the SMPS for the intended load, using appropriate voltage and current limits, and ensuring proper cooling and ventilation. It is also important to follow proper installation and maintenance procedures and to use high-quality components to prevent failures.

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