Matrix MPS-3600S power supply with line input screw down terminals advice - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: law
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 12, 2024, 01:11:36 am
content: Hiya,I purchased a Matrix MPS-3600S power supply from Appvision here in Australia.It is a 3600W unit and comes with screw down terminals for the 240V line in.This makes me a bit uncomfortable as it will sit on a desk for use. Does anyone have any suggestions on how I can make this a bit safer/nicer? Or do you think it is ok?Other units in the family seem to have a box cover over the line input. My unit actually has a box cover for output, but not the input. There don't even seem to be any screw holes for attaching a box.I'm thinking that ideally I would replace the screw terminals with a 15A IEC plug, but I haven't opened the unit yet to see if there is any room.Thanks

author: coromonadalix
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 12, 2024, 01:21:31 am
content: it is safe if you don't play behind it, i have the same plugs on a psu, i dont have any problemsbut for your peace of mind, just modify a small plastic box / enclosure and put it over the plug

author: law
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 12, 2024, 04:19:21 am
content: Hey, Thanks very much - Yes a simple box just might be the go.

author: EPAIII
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 12, 2024, 06:06:25 am
content: It's probably safe enough, but I am surprised it passed whatever certification that was applicable with those screw access holes facing UP. Something could fall in there and the sparks would fly.For peace of mind I would fabricate some kind of cover. Even a simple piece of thin plastic that covers those holes would be a big improvement. I would add a "Danger" label to that plastic shield.As for replacing the connector in the unit, I don't think it is attached to the rear panel. Those types of connectors are usually held on a PCB with the soldered terminals. Possibly a couple of screws through holes in the PCB, but perhaps just the three soldered terminals. I suspect it will be difficult to replace with a different type of power connector.A poor choice, IMHO.On top of that, I am not really sure about the safety of the output. It's a 3600 W unit! So, 300 A at 12 VDC. Or 300 VDC at 12 A. Or somewhere between. There is either a danger of shock or some mighty big sparks if something shorts those output terminals. Those UNINSULATED and UNPROTECTED output terminals. So, NO, I don't like the output either. I hope it has current limiting.

author: law
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 12, 2024, 07:35:17 am
content: Hey,Yeah its a bit questionable!I will 3d print or make a box to cover the terminals.> As for replacing the connector in the unit, I don't think it is attached to the rear panel.That is a good point. I've yet to take the cover off for a look but I suspect you are right.> Those UNINSULATED and UNPROTECTED output terminalsThey sure are! The output terminals have a shield that screws into the box of the supply, though had the shield removed for the photo shoot. These style output terminals seem to be pretty common on higher current power supplies.FYI it is 100VDC, 36A. It has current limiting.Thanks