Another take on an Apple 1 power supply

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Joined: Nov 9 2023 - 22:13
Posts: 69
Another take on an Apple 1 power supply

When working on my Apple 1 project, I decided to go with the big transformers as opposed to a more modern solution such as using MEAN WELL power supplies (although that could still happen in the future).

On the other hand, I also didn't want to go with the fully open layout with transformers in the open, for safety reasons (kids around, but, also myself!).

I happened to find those cheap but fairly pretty blue metal (with plastic parts) cases. This one was about $12 shipped from AliExpress, I think. So I mounted my tranformers inside, and used the opportunity to include some of the recommended enhancements:

  • Secondary fuses
  • LEDs

I prototyped the panels in cardboard first, then drilled/cut/filed the metal (which was a pain). I had initially hoped to use a DIN connector for the output, but had trouble with the specific connector I bought (too cheap), so for now the output goes out of the case without using a connector. I might revisit that in the future.

I assembled the Molex connector easily, and while I crimped it with small pliers I also soldered the wires (I realize that there is possible debate about that). I also sleeved the wires.

The result is definitely not period-correct, but it is hopefully "hacker-correct". All the pictures are here, but I post some below.

 

Here is the front of the case with the LEDs. I hope to put a nice logo there later.

 

 

Here is the back of the case, with the power entry module, which includes fuse and switch; the secondary fuses; and the power output:

 

 

Here is the inside of the case. A little messy still. I worry a little about temperatures, but I could also leave the case open:

 

 

The front-panel LEDs are soldered directly to inline resistors and diodes, protected by heat shrink:

 

 

I used these "sugars" for some connections:

 

 

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Last seen: 3 days 2 hours ago
Joined: Apr 22 2023 - 09:52
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Good work !Do you connect the

Good work !

Do you connect the network earth to the metal box? It is safer because otherwise the differential switch of the electrical panel cannot do its job properly...

I do not want to use "domino/sugar" connectors anymore since I tried "Wago" for the installation of my house...

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Last seen: 1 day 21 hours ago
Joined: Nov 9 2023 - 22:13
Posts: 69
wirehead wrote:Good work !Do
wirehead wrote:

Good work !

Do you connect the network earth to the metal box? It is safer because otherwise the differential switch of the electrical panel cannot do its job properly...

Thanks, yes I connected the ground/earth to the metal box, but I need to do a better job of it as the top of the case is separate from the bottom and both should be connected for safety reasons.

I do not want to use "domino/sugar" connectors anymore since I tried "Wago" for the installation of my house...

It seems that these are now getting very popular: I keep hearing about them!

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