SIGTOMICS / Soft Start / Super Soft Start / Inrush Current Limiter
 

SOFT STARTS: Inrush Current Limiters & Surge Suppressors for  Your Electronic Equipment

 
 

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The picture to the right displays a Soft Start, inrush Current Limiter module
  • BELOW IS A SUMMARY OF THE INSTRUCTION SHEET FOR THE SOFT START, INRUSH CURRENT LIMITER.

  • AN OVERVIEW:

    Please note: Digital and computer equipment should only be used with the models approved for their use. Erratic operation may result from improper soft start selection.

    When you switch on your equipment, the power supply components and tubes are in a discharged or a cold state. At the very moment of power application, the instantaneous current may be ten times the normal running current for that unit. This high current places a strain on parts in the unit, particularly the power supply components, power transformer and tubes.

    Using a 100-Watt light bulb as an example, the measured cold resistance is 10 Ohms. At the moment of power application, the initial current for this lamp is greater than 10 Amps, even though the average current is less than 1 Amp! Ten times the current translates to over 1000 Watts for that instant. It's no wonder that most light bulbs fail during a power on cycle.

    If we plug that same 100-Watt lamp into the receiver style Soft Start, Inrush current Limiter and power is applied, the instantaneous current is limited to less than 2 Amps. From over 10 Amps, to under 2 amps! A five times reduction in inrush current. Other models act in a similar manner, with the components selected for the power levels.

  • HOW TO USE IT:

    There are usually two outlets on the Soft Start. Each outlet is marked with its function and power level. The active Soft Start outlet is labeled with the power/current limits it is designed to handle. While Soft Starts have built-in solid state and/or thermo circuit breakers, severe overloads may damage the internal components of the unit. Look over the instruction sheet that was enclosed with your model for details.

    On single circuit models, one outlet is not in the Soft Start circuit and may be used as a convenience outlet. Examine the label on your model to determine this.

    It is important to know that after the equipment has been powered on for several minutes, cycling the radio off, then quickly on within a very short time, ie: 15, may not allow time for the internal circuitry to reset to it's most effective value. Waiting several minutes allows the internal components to reset properly for best results.

  • WHAT IT IS NOT:

    This device is not a ground fault interrupter (GFI/CGFI). It will not make a radio safer to use in a hazardous location or circumstances.

    This unit is not an isolation transformer. If used with a hot chassis radio, it will not add protection to the safe use of that radio.

    Only the Computer Soft Start is designed for use with digital equipment and switching power supplies. Their low weight and high current capability characterize them. Improper use of a Soft Start unit with digital equipment may result in erratic operation

    The basic Soft Start, Inrush Current Limiter itself is not a surge protector (of the over-voltage kind). Surge protectors typical clamp the peak voltage across the AC line, preventing unusually high voltage transients from reaching your equipment. Voltage surge protection can be added to most Soft Start as an option or simply use a quality power bar with the Soft Start for over-voltage protection.

  • TROUBLE SHOOTING:

    There are no user replaceable parts inside the protector. Please do not remove the cover or access plugs in the case.

    If you experience a shutdown, turn off or unplug the equipment from the Soft Start and wait several minutes. That should allow time for the solid state circuit to reset. If you have a linear amplifier style, your model may contain a thermo circuit breaker. Look into the enclosure opposite the cord end. If you see a plunger with 10 or 15 inscribed on it, press this to reset after cooling down.

    The protector may get warm to the touch and should be placed in a location where it can be cooled by free air. Most models are designed cool best with the outlets facing UP. Custom units may differ in their orientation.

    Do not use the device in a damp or wet location.

    If you experience nuisance tripping of the built in circuitry or thermo breaker, check that power /current requirements are within the range of the limiter. If necessary, please return the Soft Start for service or upgrade.

    If you experience continued trouble, please use the information at the bottom of the PRICE LIST page to contact me
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