Error Light on Front End Amplifier Power Supply

Error Light on Front End Amplifier Power Supply

Introduction

A power supply in error mode generally indicates a short either in the power pins on the cable or amplifier or damage to internal fuses due to over voltage conditions. The error light indicates the power supply taking a protective action to prevent damage or shorting. Note that when troubleshooting, the power supply switch must be toggled off and back on between each test, as the error state cannot be recovered without a reboot. 

Causes

  1. Bad fuse in the power receptacle of the power supply
  2. Bad fuse(s) internal to the power supply
  3. Short in power cable connector on the power supply
  4. Short in power path external to the power supply (cable, amplifier, components connected to the amplifier)

Troubleshooting

Connect the power supply to power, but disconnect the power cable that goes to the amplifier. Turn on the power supply. 
  1. If power supply does not turn on at all, check fuses in the power receptacle
  2. If supply goes into error mode then there is a short in the connector for the amp power cable or the internal fuses are bad. If you cannot observe any debris or damage to the amp power cable slot, then it will likely need to be sent back to Blackrock for diagnosis and repair

Connect the power supply to the amplifier, but disconnect any inputs to the amplifier. Turn on the power supply. 
  1. If supply doesn't go into error mode, then the problem is likely a short in something that gets connected to the inputs of the amplifier, such as a damaged cable. 
  2. If the supply does go into error mode, then there is a short in the cable to the amplifier or in the power connector to the amplifier. Try swapping the cable or the amplifier to narrow it down. Inspect the amplifier pins for debris or bent pins. 

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