One of the biggest challenges in linear power supply design is heat management, as heat generation is inherent for its nature, especially for high-current PSUs such as OPTIMO ATX.
KEY DESIGN FEATURES:
POWER BALANCE
For OPTIMO ATX massive output power we designed transformers of very low impedance that allowed us to keep required voltage surplus low through output power span balancing heat generation in regulation modules. In other words: the transformers in the OPTIMO ATX have low voltage drop – we could select them for lower voltage and thus lower the heat.
THERMAL RESISTANCE
For cutting edge performance, instead of discrete elements, we used 11 state of the art LT3086 integrated linear regulators working in parallel. This type of components spread generated heat through the PCB – this itself was a big design challenge. We carefully optimised PCB design for lowest thermal resistance to keep PCB temperature at acceptable level even at full load. (23A).
HEAT TRANSFER
One of the project objectives was fanless design (passive cooling). The OPTIMO ATX will have massive heatsinks and optimised assembly using high quality compounds to keep the temperatures at moderate levels.
Also airflow and heat dispatch was taken under consideration for enclosure design and internal layout of modules.
HIGH QUALITY COMPONENTS
All of components placed on PCB are 120+oC rated and low temperature coefficient in order to ensure stable and long operation of the power supply.
SAFETY AND PROTECTION
The OPTIMO ATX will feature advanced power management system that will monitor key parameters including temperatures of regulator modules and will safely turn the unit off in case of any faulty or abnormal situation.
DISCLAIMER
All above information and specifications are preliminary/prototype and the final product may vary.
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A recognized high-end audio consultant. Computer audio pioneer. Co-creator of the award-winning software, JPLAY. Manufacturer, curator, and distributor of high-quality audio products. Constantly strives for perfection of sound. Foundations for his breakthroughs finds in areas that others ignore.
