5
Features
So what’s the problem?
The first problem is that a switch-mode power supply is a lot more complicated than a mains transformer (a
few kilos of copper and iron), a rectifier and some large capacitors. A switch mode design will contain
dozens of parts, most of which are quite delicate but still have to operate reliably in a very electrically hostile
environment. We have been designing and building switch mode supplies for our CD players, tuners, pre-
amplifiers and multi-room components for several years and can now make them more reliable than the
conventional transformers they replaced. But this takes persistence, thoroughness and a very consistent,
high quality manufacturing process.
The second problem, which is what stops most manufacturers considering switch mode for audio, is the
potential high frequency electrical noise, or more precisely, preventing the high frequency signals becoming
electrical noise. The scale of the problem is quite daunting. The high frequency signal applied to the
transformer, if connected to an external antenna, would obliterate radio reception for miles around (please
don't try this at home!).This must be controlled and reduced so that it not only meets international legal
regulations but also prevents any audible or measurable interference with any of the audio circuitry. This
does not happen by itself, but takes experience, thorough precision engineering and diligent quality control.
Only when all of this is achieved can the potential audio benefits of switch mode start to be revealed and
exploited.
Switch-mode - some assorted facts
The transformer in the KLIMAX CHAKRA 500 Twin is less than 40mm (1.5 inches) cube. In the KLIMAX
CHAKRA 500 Twin it can deliver 1000 watts (at 50/60 Hz it could deliver only about 5 watts).
The reservoir capacitors in the KLIMAX CHAKRA 500 Twin are about the size of a thimble but give better
filtering than ones the size of a beer can that are used in other very powerful amplifiers.
The semiconductor switches turn on and off in about 20nS (0.00000002 s). The overload protection for the
switches can detect a potentially destructive condition and protect the switches in less than half a
microsecond ( (0.0000005 s).
Linn have patent protection for the innovative noise control technique that is used in the KLIMAX CHAKRA
500 Twin switch-mode power supply.
Summary of Contents for KLIMAX CHAKRA 500 Twin
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