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Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: Apollo on May 27, 2004, 05:39:14 am

Title: Need some help from electronics guru
Post by: Apollo on May 27, 2004, 05:39:14 am
OK so I've bought this from Happ to run 2 8W speakers in my cab.

2 Channel Amplifier
Approx. 8 Watts RMS per channel 10% THD (10 Watts RMS @ 16v Input)
Volume control can be easily adjusted with fingers
Compact Size: 4.25" L x 3.38" W x 2.24" H
Power Input: +12vdc to +18vdc minimum 1.5A with either a 2mm Coaxial power jack or .100" center locking header connector (Optional Happ Controls plug-in power supply available, part number 80-1153-00)


What I need to know is can I run this from my switching power supply, it has a +12v 2.5amp outlet. I don't want to wreck this thing it was pretty expensive.
Thankyou.
Title: Re:Need some help from electronics guru
Post by: DaveJ-UK on May 27, 2004, 05:45:04 am
I did this a few days ago, except with the amp from some stereo pc speakers.

I cut the 12V line to the JAMMA connector, put one of them wiring blocks in there with an extra lead to power the AMP (soldered onto the PCB). Connected that up and then got ground from my JPAC. Just make sure you get the polarity right!!

I sugest using an ameter to test the polarity; although I just guessed! (
Title: Re:Need some help from electronics guru
Post by: JoeB on May 27, 2004, 09:52:19 am
Before you go any further, I want you to be aware of a few things..

- 10% THD is TERRIBLE!!!!!  THD = Total harmonic distortion!  Speakers in cars are rated 0.01 -> 0.1% THD..  10% is really really bad!
- You need to make sure the amp and speakers are the same resistance.  Car speakers are mostly 4 ohm, home speakers are 8 ohm.  You can't mix and match.
- I assume those are shielded speakers.. make sure!!
- Is volume control adjusted on the amp?  If so, it's going to be a pain getting to it every time you want to change the volume.  I assume you want to mount the amp inside the cab.

For the cost of your power supply, amp and speakers, you'd be better off to purchase a decent 2.1 computer setup setup (anything creative labs makes or logitec) you'll get better sound (lower THD) and won't worry about power.  As a bonus, you'll get a volume control box that is mountable on the outside of the cab that will probably allow you to plug in headphones (for those late night gamings).

If you are not planning on running MAME/PC in your cab.. most PCB's have an audio amp on board, so you'll need to just plug the speakers straight to that.

Hope this helps.
Title: Re:Need some help from electronics guru
Post by: Apollo on May 27, 2004, 05:43:43 pm
OK thanks folks I already have the speakers and amp, what I am really wondering is will my 2.5amp 12V power supply hurt my 1.5A 12-18V amp.

Also my speakers are from an old arcade game and are 8 ohms and they will be a long way from the monitor so no worries about sheilding ( although I'm pretty sure they are sheilded ).

Thankyou