Alpha APX2-G Series User manual

Alpha APX2-G Series
Installation Manual
Effective: August, 2005
Alpha Technologies
Alpha APX2-G Series
Non-standby Power Supplies

Power
Alpha Technologies
®

016-550-B0-002 Rev. B 3
Photographs contained in this manual are for illustrative purposes only. These photographs may not
exactly match your installation.
Review the drawings and illustrations contained in this manual before proceeding. If there are questions
regarding the safe operation of this powering system, please contact Alpha Technologies or your nearest
Alpha representative.
Alpha denies responsibility for any damage or injury involving its enclosures, power supplies, generators,
batteries, or other hardware when used for an unintended purpose, installed or operated in an unapproved
manner, or improperly maintained.
For general Alpha Technologies product information and customer service:
• www.alpha.com
• [phone] (Western and Eastern Europe)
• [phone] (China)
For complete technical support:
1-360-647-2360
(7:00 AM to 5:00 PM Pacific Time, or 24/7 emergency support)
Alpha APX2-G Series
Installation Manual
016-550-B0-002, Rev B
Copyright© 2005
Alpha Technologies, Inc.
NOTE
NOTE
NOTE
member of The Group
TM

4 016-550-B0-002 Rev. B
Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions...........................................................................................5
1.0 Overview and Specifications ................................................................................ 8
1.1 The Alpha APX2-G Series (APX2-615G and APX2-608G)........................... 8
1.2 Alpha APX2-G Series Specifications .......................................................... 10
1.3 Operating Principle ..................................................................................... 10
1.4 Operation.................................................................................................... 11
2.0 Installing an Alpha APX2-G Unit ......................................................................... 12
2.1 Pole-mount Installations ............................................................................. 12
2.2 Wall-mount Installations.............................................................................. 13
2.3 Connecting an Alpha APX2-G Unit ............................................................. 14
2.3.1 AC Output Connection .................................................................. 14
2.3.2 Utility Power Connection...............................................................15
2.3.3 External Service Disconnect ......................................................... 15
3.0 Initial Startup 16
4.0 Troubleshooting and Repair ............................................................................... 17
4.1 Troubleshooting Guide ............................................................................... 17
4.2 Important Repair Instructions ..................................................................... 17
4.3 Parts and Ordering Information .................................................................. 17
4.3.1 Ordering ........................................................................................17
4.3.2 Internet..........................................................................................17
4.3.3 Replacement Parts ....................................................................... 18
4.4 Schematic of the Alpha APX2-G Non-Standby power supply..................... 18
Mounting Template ......................................................................................................19
List of Figures
Fig. 1-1, Alpha APX2-G Series Non-standby Power Supply (front view)............................ 8
Fig. 1-2, Alpha APX2-G without cover (left side view) ........................................................ 9
Fig. 1-3, Alpha APX2-G without cover (right side view) ...................................................... 9
Fig. 1-4, Ferroresonant ‘Tank’ Circuit and Resulting Output Waveform ........................... 11
Fig. 1-5, Alpha APX2-G Operational Controls .................................................................. 11
Fig. 2-1, Alpha APX2-G unit mounted to a pole................................................................ 12
Fig. 2-2, Wall-mount holes on APX2-G unit ...................................................................... 13
Fig. 2-3, Terminal Strip ..................................................................................................... 15
Fig. 4-1, Alpha APX2-G Schematic................................................................................... 18

016-550-B0-002 Rev. B 5
Review the drawings and illustrations contained in this manual before proceeding. If there are any
questions regarding the safe installation or operation of the system, contact Alpha Technologies or
the nearest Alpha representative. Save this document for future reference.
To reduce the risk of injury or death caused by electrical shock, explosion of fuel or moving parts;
and to ensure the continued safe operation of this product, the following symbols have been
placed throughout this manual. Where these symbols appear, use extra care and attention.
Important Safety Instructions!
Symbols you may see in this Manual
A NOTE gives readers additional information to help them complete a specific task or procedure.
A CAUTION presents safety information to PREVENT DAMAGE TO Alpha or CUSTOMER’S
EQUIPMENT. A CAUTION tells you how to correctly perform a procedure or action and what
could happen if you fail to follow the instructions.
A WARNING presents safety information to PREVENT INJURY OR DEATH to the
technician/user. A WARNING tells you how to take specific safety precautions and then
explains what may happen if those precautions are not followed.
The use of ATTENTION is only for specific regulatory/code requirements that may affect the placement of
equipment and installation procedures.
Alpha Technologies’ products are subject to change through continual improvement processes. Therefore,
specifications and/or design layouts may vary slightly from descriptions included in this manual. Updates
to the manual will be issued when changes affect form, fit or function.
NOTE
ATTENTION
ATTENTION

6 016-550-B0-002 Rev. B
Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the unit from its shipping container and inspect for damage. If items are
damaged or missing, immediately contact Alpha Technologies and the shipping company. Most
shipping companies have a short claim period.
Save the original shipping container. It provides support for the unit during shipping.
If you need to return a unit for service, repackage it in its original shipping container. If you do not
have the original shipping container, repack the unit with at least 8 centimeters of shock-absorbing
material to prevent shipping damage.
Do not use popcorn-type packing material. Alpha Technologies is not responsible for damage caused by
improper packing on returned units.
General Safety Precautions
This product and its associated hardware may contain equipment, or parts which have
accessible hazardous voltage or currents.
To avoid injury:
•This enclosure and its associated hardware must be serviced only by authorized personnel.
• Enclosure must remain locked at all times, except when authorized service personnel are
present.
• Remove all conductive jewelry or personal equipment prior to servicing equipment, parts,
connectors, wiring, or batteries.
• Read and follow all installation, equipment grounding, usage, and service instructions
included in this manual.
• Use proper lifting techniques whenever handling enclosure, equipment, or parts.
• Never use uninsulated tools or other conductive materials when installing, maintaining,
servicing or replacing this equipment.
NOTE

016-550-B0-002 Rev. B 7
Mechanical Safety
• Power supplies can reach extreme temperatures under load.
• Use caution around sheet metal components and sharp edges.
Electrical Safety
• Lethal voltages are present within the power supply and electrical boxes. Never assume that
an electrical connection or conductor is not energized. Check the circuit with a volt meter with
respect to the grounded portion of the enclosure (both AC and DC) prior to any installation or
removal procedure.
• Do not work alone under hazardous conditions.
• A licensed electrician is required to install permanently wired equipment.
• Input voltages can range up to 240 VAC. Ensure that utility power is disabled before
beginning installation or removal.
• Ensure no liquids or wet clothes contact internal components.
• This equipment works continuously.
• This equipment meets “IP14/NEMA 3R” standards.
Enclosure, equipment or parts may be damaged or cause damage if used or installed
improperly.
To avoid damage:
• Prior to installation, verify that the AC input voltage to the equipment matches with respect to
voltage and frequency.
• Prior to installation, verify that the output voltage from the equipment matches the voltage
requirements of the connected equipment (load).
• Prior to installation, verify that the enclosure’s utility service panel is equipped with a
properly rated circuit breaker for use with the equipment inside. Refer to manufacturer’s
recommendations.
• Review and upgrade utility service panel circuit breaker requirements whenever the
equipment within the enclosure is changed.
• Prior to installation, contact local utilities, local building maintenance departments, and cable/
piping locator services to ensure that installation does not interfere with existing utility or
building cables/piping.
• Do not exceed the output rating of equipment. Verify load requirements prior and during
connection process.

8 016-550-B0-002 Rev. B
1.0 Overview and Specifications
1.1 The Alpha APX2-G Series
The Alpha APX2-G non-standby power supply series provides conditioned power to signal
amplifiers in Cable Television and Broadband distribution systems. The transformer is
mounted directly to the chassis, and supplies the load with current-limited, regulated AC
power that is free from disturbances caused by spikes, surges and other forms of power
line transients.
This inexpensive and reliable Alpha APX2-G non-standby power supply can be mounted
on a wooden, steel or concrete pole, or mounted on a wall. It will deliver safe operation
at all load conditions. The Alpha APX2-G units contain a ferroresonant transformer, a
resonant circuit capacitor, a terminal block, and are equipped with an input fuse, input line
switch, visual output “ON” indicator, output coaxial terminal, ground connection, and a
current shunt for output current measurement.
The Alpha APX2-G series, along with the entire line of Alpha power products, is designed
to be one of the most rugged, reliable, and cost-effective power supplies available. With
over a million powering installations in more than 50 countries, Alpha is one of the world’s
leading suppliers of reliable communication powering and offers complete technical
support and prompt, reliable service to ensure that your power supply provides you with
years of trouble-free operation. For further information, contact one of the Alpha office
locations provided on the back cover of this manual, or go to: www.alpha.com.
Fig. 1-1, Alpha APX2-G Series Non-standby Power Supply (front view)

016-550-B0-002 Rev. B 9
1.0 Overview and Specifications, cont.
Ground stud
Ground stud
Fig. 1-2, Alpha APX2-G without cover (left side view)
Fig. 1-3, Alpha APX2-G without cover (right side view)

10 016-550-B0-002 Rev. B
1.2 Alpha APX2-G Series Specifications
1.0 Overview and Specifications, cont.
1.3 Operating Principle
The APX2-G Series non-standby power supply utilizes ferroresonant transformer technology
to provide line conditioning and voltage regulation. The primary and secondary windings
of the transformer are physically isolated from each other by a large steel core which
significantly reduces the capacitive coupling of spikes and noise to the secondary winding.
This provides a regulated, current-limited output with excellent isolation and noise attenuation:
140dB common mode; 80dB transverse mode.
An oil-filled resonant AC capacitor is connected to the resonant (secondary) winding of
the transformer forming a tank circuit. This provides the resonant circuit function which
contributes to the voltage regulation of the supply. The advantage of this type of transformer/
capacitor design is the ability of the ferroresonant transformer to regulate its output voltage
over a wide range of input voltages and output loading. Typical output voltages may vary
+ 5% with 90% efficiency, with input voltage variations of + 20% of nominal line voltage, and
output loading of 20% to 100%. This tight regulation is advantageous in cable television
applications as the active devices are protected from dangerous voltage fluctuations.
Another unique feature of the ferroresonant transformer is its ability to provide current limiting
in the event of a short-circuit. This effect is called foldback. The transformer’s output current
can typically reach 150% of the nameplate output current rating for a short period of time
without damage to the transformer. When the transformer reaches the saturation point, the
output current will decrease (foldback on itself) to a minimum value, and thereby provide
current limiting. Designs based on a ferroresonant transformer are extremely rugged and
reliable, and offer many years of trouble-free operation.
Alpha’s non-standby power supplies are extremely efficient, and have a typical efficiency
rating of >90% at full load.
Model Input Voltage Frequency Output Voltage Output Current
(maximum)
608 G 220/230VAC, ±20% 50Hz ±3% 48/63V, ±5% 8A
615 G 220/230VAC, ±20% 50Hz ±3% 48/63V, ±5% 15A
905 G 220/230VAC, ±20% 50Hz ±3% 63/87V, ±5% 5A
910 G 220/230VAC, ±20% 50Hz ±3% 63/87V, ±5% 10A
614 G 100/200VAC, ±20% 60Hz ±3% 63V, ±3% 14A
614 G 200/240VAC, ±20% 60Hz ± 3% 63V, ±3% 14A
Operating temperature range for all models -40°C to +50°C
Humidity rating 95% (non-condensing)
Unit weights
Models 614/615/910 15.88kg
Models 608/905 12.7kg
Dimensions, overall 370mm H x 170mm W x 240mm D
NOTE:
An optional mesh cover is available for all models. Units supplied with mesh covers are intended for
indoor use only. Contact your Alpha representative for details.

016-550-B0-002 Rev. B 11
1.0 Overview and Specifications, cont.
1.4 Operation
Fig. 1-4, Ferroresonant ‘Tank’ Circuit and Resulting Output Waveform
Fig. 1-5, Alpha APX2-G Operational Controls
Output Connector
Output Indicator Light
(Illuminated)
Cover lock screws
(2 places)
Ground Connector
AC Line Cord
Power Switch,
Input fuse
The output waveform from the ferroresonant transformer is not a true sine or square wave, but is
instead a quasi-square wave.
NOTE:
It is necessary to use a true RMS voltmeter to correctly measure the output voltages.
NOTE:
All controls and indicators for the Alpha APX2-G, except the power switch, are accessible on the faceplate
of the unit.
Ferroresonant
transformer and AC
capacitor
C1
T1
Noisy input
waveform Clean output
waveform
Output Test Points
Shipping screws
(4 places)

12 016-550-B0-002 Rev. B
Fig. 2-1, Pole-mounted Alpha APX2-G unit.
Water splashing upwards into the cutouts or louvers may flood
the interior of the enclosure causing upredictable shorting or
electrical failure.
2.0 Installing an Alpha APX2-G Unit
2.1 Pole-mount Installations
Description
The Alpha APX2-G series non-standby power supplies are designed to mount on a
wooden, steel or concrete pole or wall. When installing an Alpha APX2-G on a pole, an
approved mounting strap must go through the mounting slots of the unit and around the
pole. When installing on a wall, use 4 8mm screws. Most regulatory agencies require the
base of the unit to be at a minimum height from the ground.
2.1.1 Wooden, Steel or Concrete Pole Mounting Procedure
Required tools and materials
For the following procedures, the installer(s) will need the following tools and
materials on hand.
Required Materials
Pole straps (customer supplied) of an appropriate width to fit through the mount-
ing slots of the unit and appropriate length to fit around the pole. Straps must
meet code requirements and be able to support the unit for the anticipated life-
time.
Required Tools
Assorted screwdrivers, sockets or wrenches
1. Unpack the unit.
2. Thread the pole-mounting straps through the unit’s strap slots.
3. Position the unit onto the pole and fasten straps.
4. Tighten straps according to strap manufacturer’s specifications.
5. Trim any excess strapping material.
Mounting slots
NOTE:
Verify height restrictions and allowances before installing an Alpha APX2-G unit.
CAUTION!
NOTE:
• Install this equipment strictly according to installation instructions.
• The faceplate must face downward in order to meet the “IP14/NEMA
3R” waterproof standards for pole-mount installation.

016-550-B0-002 Rev. B 13
2.0 Installing an Alpha APX2-G Unit, cont.
Fig. 2-2, Wall-mounting holes on APX2-G unit
2.2 Wall MountInstallations
For wall mounting, securely fasten the unit to the wall with four 8mm screws (or bolts) of
appropriate length, grade and material to support the unit.
Required Materials
Four 8mm screws for mounting on wood.
Required Tools
Assorted screwdrivers (#2 Phillips head, #2 standars head), sockets or wrenches to
match mounting hardware.
1. Unpack the unit.
2. Remove the four securing screws from the exterior sides of the cover, loosen the two
retaining screws and remove the cover from the chassis.
3. Place the APX2-G template (located on last page of this manual) at the required
height for mounting and mark the location of the mounting holes.
4. With an appropriate drill bit, drill the four holes for mounting.
5. Screw the four screws or bolts into the mounting surface. Leave approximately 2-
3mm between the screw head and mounting surface.
6. Remove the plastic covers in the front of the mounting holes.
7. Align the APX2-G unit mounting holes over the screws and slide the chassis
downward into the slots. Securely tighten the top screws by inserting the screwdriver
or wrench through the access holes in the back of the chassis. Replace the four
plastic plugs, making sure they properly fit.
8. Continue to Section 2.3.1.
NOTE:
• Failure to replace the plastic covers will allow moisture to
enter the enclosure and damage equipment.
• Install this equipment strictly according to installation
instructions.
• The baseplate must face downward in order to meet the
“IP14” waterproof standards for pole-mount installation.

14 016-550-B0-002 Rev. B
2.0 Installing an Alpha APX2-G Unit, cont.
Seizure
screw
NOTE:
The center conductor may be trimmed to allow for a flush fit. The length
of the center conductor must be 1.25” (3.17cm) from the end to the
center of the O-Ring.
1.25” (3.17cm)
2.3 Connecting an Alpha APX2-G Unit
2.3.1 AC Output Connection
Tools required: appropriate open-end wrenches
and screwdrivers
1. Prepare the incoming coaxial cable used for
the distribution of power (including external
fittings not supplied by Alpha).
2. Loosen the seizure screw output fitting to
accommodate the center pin (“stinger”) of
the cable connector.
3. Screw the cable connector into the
output port (large hex nut fitting) located
on the baseplate of the Alpha APX2-G.
Make sure that the center pin extends far
enough into the fitting so that the seizure
assembly can be secured.
4. Tighten the brass seizure screw on the
cable “stinger” or center conductor to
25in-lbs (2.82N-m).
5. Replace cover and securely tighten cover
locking screws.
Seizure
screw

016-550-B0-002 Rev. B 15
2.3.3 External Service Disconnect
If installing an external service disconnect, install it between the utility power con-
nection and the Alpha APX2-G unit. (The customer supplies the external service
disconnect. Please consult manufacturer or local power utility company for spe-
cific installation instructions and guidelines.)
• For pole-mount enclosures, attach directly to utility pole. (See Section 2.1.1)
2.0 Installing an Alpha APX2-G Unit, cont.
2.3.1 AC Output Connection, cont.
2.3.2 Utility Power Connection
The APX2-G is supplied without a line cord to allow the installer to select the most
suitable cord and plug for the installation (14 AWG is recommended). The power
cord is installed as indicated in Fig. 2-3 above. The cable fitting is equipped with a
strain relief clamp for secure attachment of the line cord.
5. Choose the right tie-in for power from the terminal block of the transformer.
For the APX2-608G and APX2-615G, the output default is 63V (shown).
Ensure power is OFF when changing the output tie-in. For the APX2-905G
and -910G, the default output voltage from the primary tap of the transformer
(not shown) is 87V .
Secondary tap:48V
(APX2-608G and -615G)
Secondary tap: 63V
(APX2-905G and -910G)
WARNING!
Ensure the tightness of the seizure screw for the cable “stinger.” Arcing may occur
because of a loose connection. During routine maintenance, always check the seizure
screw assembly to ensure that it is tight. Alpha is not responsible for damage to
equipment or personnel because of incorrect taps or loose connections.
NOTE:
To change voltage outputs from 63V to 48V (see Fig. 2-3 above) or 87V to 63V, select the appropriate tie-
in, then tighten the screws on the terminal block.
NOTE:
Install a “high magnetic” trip breaker rated for 220/240V, 15A (or 110/120V, 30A for the 120V APX2-614G)
normally used in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) applications to accommodate the high-
inrush currents associated with the start-up of ferroresonant transformers (400 Amp, no-trip, first-half
cycle).
Neutral
Line
Ground
Power cord
connection
Fig. 2-3, Terminal Strip

16 016-550-B0-002 Rev. B
3.0 Initial Startup
The Alpha APX2-G must be tested before it is placed into service. Once utility and cable
connections have been made, testing may begin.
Procedure:
1. Before applying power, ensure that the AC LINE input switch is in the OFF position.
2. If present, switch the external service entrance breaker (located outside of the
enclosure) to ON.
3. Activate Alpha APX2-G by pressing the input switch to ON. The switch will illuminate
to indicate that power is present.
4. Use a true reading RMS digital multimeter to measure the output voltage via the
current shunt and ground connectors of the Alpha APX2-G. The voltage will read
between 60 and 65VAC for 63VAC output.
5. The APX2-G is equipped with a 10mV/1A shunt as shown below. The current draw
must not exceed 8A (maximum) for the APX2-608G model, and 15A (maximum) for
the APX2-615G model.
NOTE:
If you use a non-RMS type voltmeter, the reading can be off by as much as 10% due to the “quasi”
square- wave output of the ferroresonant transformer.
NOTE:
If the unit is noisy after Step 6, remove the cover, then make sure it aligns with the side rails as you again
replace the cover. Also, the side shipping screws may be re-installed to further secure the cover.
6. Remove power from unit.
7. Install and close the cover on the Alpha APX2-G. Secure the hold-down screw and
lock the enclosure.

016-550-B0-002 Rev. B 17
4.0 Troubleshooting and Repair
4.1 Troubleshooting Guide
The troubleshooting guide is designed to display typical symptoms, causes and solutions,
beginning with the most obvious and working systematically through the unit. Alpha
Technologies recommends that the power supply maintenance log accompany units
brought in for bench service to aid the technician in troubleshooting the problem.
Symptom: Probable Cause: Remedy:
No output to cable Utility power outage Check input switch light indicator.
(Verify switch is on.)
Check input fuse. Replace with same
type of fuse
Use voltmeter to verify 220/230VAC at
receptacle.
Check output indicator light.
Check input circuit breaker
4.2 Important Repair Instructions
Before returning a unit to Alpha Technologies for repair, contact the nearest Alpha repair
facility or sales office to obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number. The RMA
must be clearly marked on the unit’s original shipping container. If the original container
is no longer available, pack the unit in at least 3 inches of shock absorbent material (do
not use popcorn-type material for packaging), and clearly mark the RMA on the outside of
the shipping container.
4.3 Parts and Ordering Information
4.3.1 Ordering
To order parts, contact the Alpha Technologies Customer Service Department directly at:
Latin America: 1-360-647-2360 United Kingdom: [phone]
Germany: [phone] Middle East: [phone]
Australia: [phone] China: [phone]
Rest of Asia: 1-360-647-2360
To obtain emergency technical support (7 days/week, 24 hours/day) call:
[phone] (Western/Eastern Europe)
[phone] (China)
1-360-647-2460 (U.S.)
4.3.2 Internet
To find additional information about Alpha products, services, and office locations,
go to: www.alpha.com.
NOTE:
Returns must be prepaid and insured. Alpha does not accept COD and freight collect.
Alpha Technologies does not assume responsibility for damage caused by improper packing of returned
units.

18 016-550-B0-002 Rev. B
4.0 Troubleshooting and Repair, continued
4.3.3 Replacement Parts:
The following parts can be replaced in the field and are available from Alpha
Technologies. To order parts, please specify the model number which appears
on the nameplate, and contact your nearest Alpha sales office.
Alpha Part No. Type Description
196-055-86 Capacitor Oil Filled 12.5µF; 660 VAC
196-054-86 Capacitor Oil Filled 17.5µF; 660 VAC
460-275-86 Fuses Slow Blow 5mmx20.5mm; 5 amp
460-276-86 Fuses Slow Blow 5mmx20.5mm; 8 amp
4.4 Schematic of the Alpha APX2-G Non-Standby power supply.
Fig. 4-1, Alpha APX2-G Schematic
48V
63V
Neutral
Line
Ground (GRN)
Terminal Block
Switch
Fuse
Test Points
Current Shunt
Output
LED
Output
Ferroresonant
Transformer
Oil-filled
Capacitor
63V*
48V**
* 87V for 905/910 models
** 63V for 905/910 models

Mounting Template
Mark the holes and position drill according
to the mounting hardware.
Remove the black plastic plugs in order
to tighten the mounting hardware. Please
replace the plugs after tightening hardware.
11.40cm
22.90cm