PowerPac Basic Power Supply

Notice

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Section 1: Introduction

1.1 Overview

The PowerPac Basic provides constant voltage or constant current to instruments used in electrophoresis. The power supply operates at the values specified for the constant parameter. However, to prevent damage to the electrophoresis cell, the PowerPac Basic provides automatic crossover to constant current or constant voltage, depending on which set value is first reached. When the set limit of the non-constant parameter is reached, and the power capability of the unit is not exceeded, the power supply will switch, making the non-constant parameter the new constant parameter.

Output Specifications:

• Voltage: Adjustable from 10 to 300 Volts, in 1 volt increments.
• Current: Adjustable from 4 to 400 milliamperes (mA) in 1 mA increments.
• Power: 75 watts (maximum).
• Output Jacks: Up to four identical electrophoresis cells can be connected in parallel to the power supply.

Figure 1: Front View depicts the front panel of the PowerPac Basic, showing the display, control buttons (STOP, RUN/PAUSE, V/A, CONSTANT), and output jacks.

Figure 2: Rear View shows the rear of the unit, indicating the AC INLET, POWER SWITCH, and FUSE.

1.2 Unpacking

When receiving the power supply, inspect the container for shipping damage. If damage is suspected, file a claim with the carrier before contacting Bio-Rad Laboratories. After unpacking, remove the protective plastic film from the top case. Clean any residue with a soft, damp cloth.

Contents include:

• PowerPac Basic power supply
• Power cord
• Instruction manual
• Warranty card
• Declaration of conformity

Contact Bio-Rad Laboratories immediately if any part is missing or damaged.

Section 2: Control Features

Figure 3: Front Panel illustrates the controls:

• DISPLAY MODE KEY: Selects the parameter to be displayed (Volts, Milliamperes, or Minutes). The corresponding LED indicates the displayed value.
• SCROLL KEYS: Adjust the value of the selected parameter. Holding a scroll key for more than 5 units increases/decreases values in increments of 10 for faster adjustment.
• CONSTANT PARAMETER KEY (V/A): Selects either constant voltage or constant current. The LED on the key indicates the selected parameter. Both LEDs lit indicate maximum power during a run.
• RUN AND PAUSE KEY: Starts and pauses a run. Pausing allows editing of the constant parameter and its values. The corresponding LED indicates the power supply's status.
• STOP KEY: Stops the run. Constant and limit parameter values are preserved. The timer resets to zero.

Section 3: Setup and Operation

1. Turn Power On: Press the power switch on the right side of the unit. The default setting is constant voltage (V), with the LED display showing zero. To view the firmware version, hold the constant parameter key while turning the power switch on.
2. Connect Electrophoresis Cell(s): Connect the cell(s) to the power supply using the color-coordinated output terminals (red and black). A warning symbol [⚠] indicates high voltages. Power leads must be inserted perpendicular to the case curve.
   • Figure 5: Power leads connected correctly shows proper connection.
   • Figure 6: Power leads connected incorrectly shows improper connection.
3. Select Constant Parameter: Press the Constant Parameter Key (V/A) to choose between voltage or current. The corresponding LED will illuminate. The display shows zero for the selected parameter.
4. Enter Constant Parameter Value: Use the scroll keys to set the desired value. Voltage is adjustable from 10 to 300V in 1V increments. Current is adjustable from 4 to 400mA in 1mA increments.
5. Enter Limit Parameter Value: Use the parameter key to select the limit parameter. The default maximum value (300V or 400mA) is displayed. Set a suitable limit value to prevent excessive power conditions.
6. Programming a Timed Run: Use the parameter key to select time. Use the scroll key to enter the desired time, up to 999 minutes. If no time is entered, the run continues until stopped. A timed run displays remaining time; an untimed run displays elapsed time.
7. Power Failure Detection (Optional): Available for timed runs only. To activate, ensure the parameter key is in time mode, enter the desired time, then hold the STOP key for approximately 2 seconds until "Pfd" is displayed. This feature automatically deactivates after a run.
8. De-activation of Change in Resistance Feature (Optional): For applications with resistance fluctuations, this feature can be deactivated to allow uninterrupted runs. Ensure the parameter key is in current mode, then hold the STOP key for approximately 2 seconds until "dE9" is displayed. Caution: Deactivating this feature may increase the risk of electrical hazard.
9. Start the Run: Press the RUN/PAUSE key. The run LED will illuminate.
10. Viewing and Editing During a Run: Press the parameter key to view values. Edit constant parameter and time values (for timed runs) in pause mode. Limit values can also be edited in pause mode. To switch from untimed to timed, stop and reprogram.
11. Pause Mode: Press the RUN/PAUSE key during a run. The pause LED will light, allowing safe adjustments, editing of all parameters, or changing the constant parameter.
12. End of Run: When a run completes (timed end or untimed stop), parameter values are preserved, and the timer resets. The run/pause LEDs will be off, indicating no power to output jacks.
13. Terminating a Timed Run: Press the STOP key. Parameter values are preserved, and the timer resets. The run/pause LEDs will be off.
14. Powering Down: Press the STOP key before turning the power switch off. Failure to do so may trigger a power failure detection and automatic restart if enabled.

Section 4: Maintenance and Troubleshooting

4.1 Maintenance

The PowerPac Basic requires minimal maintenance. To clean the case, unplug the unit and wipe with a damp cloth.

4.2 Troubleshooting

4.3 Replacing a Fuse

If the unit shows no display, lights, or fan, and is powered on:

1. Disconnect the power cord.
2. Use a flat blade screwdriver to release the fuse holder in the power entry module.
3. Replace the fuse with a 2.5A, 250V, 5 x 20 mm, fast-blow fuse (Bio-Rad catalog number 12007433).
4. Re-insert the fuse holder.

Note: Repeated fuse blowing indicates hardware failure; contact Bio-Rad for repair.

4.4 Firmware Version Number

To display the firmware version number with the power supply off: Hold down the constant parameter key and turn the power switch on. Release the key when all LEDs light up. The firmware version will appear briefly.

Appendix A: Specifications

• Input Power: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz (nominal); 85–264 VAC, 50/60 Hz (actual)
• Fuses: 2.5 A, 250 VAC, 5 x 20 mm, fast-blow
• Input Power Cord: 3-wire, grounded
• Output (Programmable): Voltage: 10 V to 300 V (1V steps); Current: 4 mA to 400 mA (1mA steps)
• Voltage Accuracy: ±2% of reading or 3 volts, whichever is more
• Current Accuracy: ±2% of reading or 3 mA, whichever is more
• Power (maximum): 75 W
• Terminals: 4-pair recessed banana jacks, floating in parallel
• Timer Control: 001 to 999 minutes, fully adjustable
• Ripple: <1% @ 300 V and 70 W
• Line Regulation: <1% @ 300 V and 70 W, 85–264 VAC
• Load Regulation: <1% @ 300 V for a 50% change in output load
• Drift: <1% @ after 15 min warmup at 300 V and 70 W
• Noise: 55 dBA at 1 meter
• Readout Stability: Volts: ±1 V; Current: ±1 mA
• Safety Features: No load detection, Sudden load change detection, Overload/short circuit protection (automatic power limit), Input line protection (fuse), Auto power up after power failure (user-selectable).
• Safety Compliance: IEC 61010-1. Conforms to CE standards for Emissions and Immunity Class A (tested at 230V).
• Display Functions: 3-digit LED displays voltage, current, or time.
• Function Modes: Constant voltage, constant current, timer, pause, user-selectable automatic power-up after power failure.
• Environmental: Operating Temperature: 0–40°C; Humidity: 10–95% (non-condensing).
• Dimensions: 25 cm (L) x 21 cm (W) x 8 cm (H)
• Unit is stackable
• Weight: 1.1 kg

¹ Fuse specifications apply to products with serial number 041BR300000 and higher.

Appendix B: Warranty and Ordering Information

Warranty

The PowerPac Basic is covered by a standard Bio-Rad Laboratories warranty. Contact your local Bio-Rad representative for details. Bio-Rad will replace defective parts free of charge during the warranty period. Exclusions include defects from improper operation, unauthorized repair/modification, use of non-specified cables/connectors, misuse, or damage from disaster. For service, contact your local Bio-Rad office.

Warranty Information

• Model: [Blank field]
• Serial Number: [Blank field]
• Date of Delivery: [Blank field]
• Warranty Period: [Blank field]

Ordering Information

³ Fuse specifications apply to products with serial number 041BR300000 and higher.