AMETEK Programmable Power
BPS Series User Manual M440077-01 Rev A
28
The input power cables and protective circuit breaker used must be large enough to handle the input
current and input voltage of the power source and must conform to local electrical codes. Consult a
qualified electrician prior to installation. Table 3-1 shows the size of the cables that may be used per BPS
cabinet. Note that wires must be sized to accommodate the worst-case maximum current that may occur
under low line conditions. Local electrical codes may also require different wire types and sizes. These
ratings should also be used when selecting a circuit breaker or equivalent disconnect device.
Cable lengths must not exceed twenty-five (25) feet. For lengths greater than 25 feet, calculate the
voltage drop from the following formula:
2 X DISTANCE X CABLE RESISTANCE PER FT. X CURRENT = VOLT DROP
Table 3-1: Suggested Input Wiring Sizes for each BPS Cabinet *
Nominal Line
Voltage
Load Current @
low line
Wire Gauge (US)
Circular Mils
(Kcmils)
Metric (mm2)
480 V
75 A
RMS
6
AWG
26.24
13.3
400 V
90 A
RMS
4
AWG
41.74
21.1
230 V
157 A
RMS
2
AWG
66.36
33.6
208 V
175 A
RMS
1
AWG
83.69
42.4
* Using high temperature rated wire. Always consult the National Electrical Code and local code regulations for
proper rating and size of wire cabling prior to installation.
CAUTION: Capacitors in the power source may hold a hazardous electrical charge even if the
power source has been disconnected from the mains supply. Allow capacitors to discharge to a
safe voltage before touching exposed pins of mains supply connectors.
Power modules need at least 15 Minutes to discharge to safe levels before they can be removed.
3.5
AC On/Off Circuit Breaker on BPS Series front panel.
It is important to understand the purpose and operation of the On/Off circuit breaker of the BPS Series
located on the lower left side of the front panel. This is a 2A rated breaker that is used to engage and
protect the LV Power supply of the BPS chassis only. The LV Power supply provides DC bias power to
the entire BPS system. The AC input power is routed through a set of three AC line fuses (F1, F2 and F3)
located in the lower left bottom corner of the BPS. (See Figure 4-2 for fuse locations). These fuses
protect the three BPS amplifiers and the AC input transformer from excessive input currents. The AC
input power is connected to the input transformer through a large three-pole contactor. Removing AC
power to the LV Power Supply by opening the front panel circuit breaker (moving the lever to the down
(OFF) position) will cause this contactor to lose its coil voltage and will result in it opening and
disconnecting the input transformer and amplifier from AC mains input.
Note:
If any system failure has occurred on any part of the BPS system, AC input power must be
removed immediately and not restored until the system has been inspected by a qualifier
service technician. Repeatedly applying power may cause further damage.
Always turn off the On/Off Circuit breaker before re-applying AC input power.
CAUTION: The AC input fuses can only be checked is the BPS unit is completely de-
energized and disconnected from any AC power input.
