There are several reasons why the HP DPS-1200SB switching power supplies are so popular with amateur radio operators:
High Power and Current Output:
- The DPS-1200SB can provide a maximum output of 1200 watts and over 100 amps, making it ideal for powering high-power amateur radio equipment. This is a significant advantage over traditional linear power supplies, which can be bulky and expensive at such high power levels.
Low Cost:
- Due to their surplus availability, DPS-1200SBs are relatively inexpensive, often costing around $20-$30. This makes them a budget-friendly option for amateur radio operators, especially compared to dedicated ham radio power supplies that can cost upwards of $100.
Easy to Modify:
- The DPS-1200SB is relatively easy to modify for amateur radio use. The most common modification involves adding a resistor to enable the power supply to turn on without a load connected. This modification is well-documented online, making it accessible for even beginner hobbyists.
Compact and Lightweight:
- Despite their high power output, the DPS-1200SBs are relatively compact and lightweight compared to linear power supplies. This makes them easier to transport and store, which is important for many amateur radio operators who set up portable stations.
Reliable:
- HP DPS-1200SBs are known for their reliability and long lifespan. They are built with high-quality components and are designed for continuous operation in demanding environments.
Additional Features:
- Some models of the DPS-1200SB also have additional features that are useful for amateur radio operators, such as over-voltage protection and adjustable output voltage.
Community Support:
- There is a large and active community of amateur radio operators who use and modify DPS-1200SBs. This means that there is a wealth of information and support available online, making it easy to find answers to questions and get help with troubleshooting.
It’s important to note that modifying a DPS-1200SB can be dangerous if done incorrectly. It is recommended that only experienced hobbyists attempt this modification, and that they carefully follow the instructions available online.
Overall, the HP DPS-1200SB is a popular choice for amateur radio operators due to its high power output, low cost, ease of modification, and reliability. These factors make it a great value option for powering a variety of amateur radio equipment.
There are several reasons why the HP DPS-1200SB switching power supplies are so popular with amateur radio operators:
High Power and Current Output:
- The DPS-1200SB can provide a maximum output of 1200 watts and over 100 amps, making it ideal for powering high-power amateur radio equipment. This is a significant advantage over traditional linear power supplies, which can be bulky and expensive at such high power levels.
Low Cost:
- Due to their surplus availability, DPS-1200SBs are relatively inexpensive, often costing around $20-$30. This makes them a budget-friendly option for amateur radio operators, especially compared to dedicated ham radio power supplies that can cost upwards of $100.
Easy to Modify:
- The DPS-1200SB is relatively easy to modify for amateur radio use. The most common modification involves adding a resistor to enable the power supply to turn on without a load connected. This modification is well-documented online, making it accessible for even beginner hobbyists.
Compact and Lightweight:
- Despite their high power output, the DPS-1200SBs are relatively compact and lightweight compared to linear power supplies. This makes them easier to transport and store, which is important for many amateur radio operators who set up portable stations.
Reliable:
- HP DPS-1200SBs are known for their reliability and long lifespan. They are built with high-quality components and are designed for continuous operation in demanding environments.
Additional Features:
- Some models of the DPS-1200SB also have additional features that are useful for amateur radio operators, such as over-voltage protection and adjustable output voltage.
Community Support:
- There is a large and active community of amateur radio operators who use and modify DPS-1200SBs. This means that there is a wealth of information and support available online, making it easy to find answers to questions and get help with troubleshooting.
It’s important to note that modifying a DPS-1200SB can be dangerous if done incorrectly. It is recommended that only experienced hobbyists attempt this modification, and that they carefully follow the instructions available online.
Overall, the HP DPS-1200SB is a popular choice for amateur radio operators due to its high power output, low cost, ease of modification, and reliability. These factors make it a great value option for powering a variety of amateur radio equipment.
