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Products => Test Equipment => Topic started by: jonwilhelmjr on April 30, 2017, 11:00:05 pm

Title: Hoefer Scientific Instruments PS 1200 DC Power Supply
Post by: jonwilhelmjr on April 30, 2017, 11:00:05 pm
I was given a "Hoefer Scientific Instruments PS 1200 DC Power Supply" and I am trying to locate as much info as i can on this equipment. I am not sure what I should do with it either. As far as voltmeter  testing has allowed, I have tested the voltage output and its in spec once warmed up. How can I use this supply? Is this supply as good as trash? What was the supply used for back in the day? Does anyone have a manual or user manual?

Specs:
1200V
250mA
300W

Thank you for everyones help and advice.
-Jon
Title: Re: Hoefer Scientific Instruments PS 1200 DC Power Supply
Post by: mmagin on April 30, 2017, 11:09:00 pm
I have one of these.  Never found a manual.  As I understand it, it's an electrophoresis power supply (newer ones are much smaller switching power supplies.

It's certainly enough voltage and current to kill you, so be careful.

The weird things I have been able to discern about this that makes it kinda wonky as a bench supply:
- Current mode isn't a current limit, it seems to be "try to source this much current up to the voltage limit (600 or 1200 volts).
- It kinda goes slowly.  On purpose?
- I can't quite figure out program mode.

I'll probably eventually use it for parts:  Old as they are, the digital panel meters seem to be good stuff, the pots and knobs are solid, and it has a transformer suitable as a plate supply for a tube-based RF amplifier or modest vacuum tube tesla coil.
Title: Re: Hoefer Scientific Instruments PS 1200 DC Power Supply
Post by: jonwilhelmjr on May 01, 2017, 05:49:31 pm
The only project I could think of would be a tesla coil. From turning it on I noticed the response to the adjustment dial is several seconds slow. I am thinking that's because of large caps. Great care will be taken with this supply I don't feel like killing myself. Have you been able to dial in an exact voltage and maintain it? I am lacking tubes to play with, maybe I can make one?