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Author Topic: “Computer Grade” Filter Caps  (Read 3331 times)
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WA2SQQ
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« on: July 21, 2020, 08:40:43 AM »

One of my 50A 12V supplies is begging for some TLC. At very least it needs new filter caps. So I’ve always wondered why they use these large computer grade filter caps? I can easily parallel two physically smaller caps to achieve the same value. What am I missing?
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KI4YAN
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« Reply #1 on: July 21, 2020, 01:43:43 PM »

The ripple current rating.

Make sure your paralleled pair meets or exceeds it.
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W1RKW
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« Reply #2 on: July 21, 2020, 04:57:49 PM »

I think low ESR, inductance and high temp rating for SMPS's is what distinguishes them from other caps.
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KD6VXI
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« Reply #3 on: July 21, 2020, 05:52:53 PM »

I think it's they where all the rage years ago.

Technology has marched in, and they are pretty much absolete today. I use snap ins exclusively now, had boards made up for ease of use.

--Shane
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WBear2GCR
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« Reply #4 on: July 21, 2020, 09:18:07 PM »

Afaik "Computer Grade" was a spec for actual power supplies for computers dating from
the 1970s through the late 1980s when the supplies were big linear supplies.

They had to handle 24/7 operation, heavy current draw, and the like. They were typically
big cans.

Today modern cap construction makes for a physically smaller cap.
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_-_- bear WB2GCR                   http://www.bearlabs.com
WA2SQQ
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« Reply #5 on: July 22, 2020, 10:46:14 AM »

Thanks for all the input. All as I had thought it might be.
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