Astron RS50M Power Supply

The Astron RS-50M is a heavy-duty, linear-regulated desktop power supply popular for powering amateur radios and test equipment due to its low noise and durable design. It provides up to 50 amps of power and features dual analog meters for monitoring voltage and amperage.
Key Specifications & Features
The Astron RS-50M is known for its robust, solid-state electronic regulation, designed to maintain regulation and low ripple even at low line input voltages.
Output Voltage: Fixed at 13.8 VDC (internally adjustable from 11 to 15 VDC).
Output Current: Rated for 37 A continuous duty and 50 A Intermittent Communication Service (ICS) surge.
Input Voltage: Designed for 105-125 VAC input (220V models are available).
Meters: Features separate analog volt and amp meters on the front panel.
Protection: Includes fold-back current limiting and crowbar overvoltage protection.
Ripple: Produces less than 5 mV peak-to-peak ripple at full load and low line input.
Dimensions & Weight: Measures approximately 6 x 13.75 x 11 inches and weighs around 46 lbs.
Cooling: Utilizes a heavy-duty heat sink for cooling, rather than a fan.
User Reviews & Expert Opinions
Users and experts praise the Astron RS-50M for its reliability and durability, though some note its large size and weight compared to modern switching power supplies.
Durability: Many users report their units have been working perfectly for over 20 years, calling them “bullet proof”.
Performance: Reviewers from different sources describe it as a “Cadillac of power supplies” for applications requiring low noise and stable performance, such as powering HF radios.
Noise Level: As a linear power supply, it is inherently designed for low noise and is quiet, making it suitable for sensitive electronic equipment.