Linear or Switcher

Robert KB6QXM · October 2020

I have the ability to use one of two supplies for my "new to me" Flex 6500. One is a 50A linear supply and the other is a 50A switcher power supply.

Has anyone noticed that there are some noise that is seen in the Flex by the switching supply?

As I have both options, I would like to hear any previous experience with using a switcher and a Flex 6500 or if I should just default to the Linear supply.

Bob K8RC · October 2020

The noise level from a switcher entirely depends on the switcher. Some can be fairly quiet. Some put out more noise than a local thunderstorm. If the power supply is putting out noise, the Flex WILL hear it.

IMHO, unless you have a problem with the weight or cost, it is always preferable to use a linear power supply.

ka9ees · October 2020

What the Old Guy said.

Ed KA9EES

John KB4DU · October 2020

If it’s not too much trouble, run A-B comparison on the two. If the switching supply is making noise, it’s usually not wide-band, but spikes across the freq range, and visible on the pan display.

Martin AA6E · October 2020

I've used both types with my 6500. I decided I didn't want the huge bulk and mass of an Astron 50 and it's inefficiency. I have a couple of compact 20A switchers that both do the job without much ham band interference. Currently using a Yaesu model. The birdies are there if you hunt for them, but there's plenty of worse stuff on HF at my QTH.

73 Martin AA6E

Linear or Switcher

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