Differences Between VBOX7's ???

[Cosmo Blatz]

Is there a way to tell the difference between a 2 amp output VBOX and a 3.5 amp max output VBOX?

I ordered a 3.5 amp VBOX. The VBOX I received has a 2 amp fuse on the circuit board. This fuse is in-line with the 36 VAC transformer secondary output. That doesn't seem right. The cardboard box states "Heavy Duty".

Here are the specs for the 'standard' 2 amp model:
http://dmsiusa.com/vbox7specs.html

I'm thinking I did not receive a true heavy duty 3.5 amp box. (No, didn't buy it on eBay.)

Does anyone have the 'real deal' and know the fuse rating?

 

[Pixl]

I could believe a 2a fuse on the primary, but not the secondary.

 

[Titanium]

Probably be difficult to get an answer on this unless comparing the same distributor, brand and model. I do not have a DMSI model on my bench, so not much help with a comparison.

I agree that a fuse "should" be rated at least equal to or greater than the specifications current rating. I also question, like Pixil, the position of the fuse. 2 amp on the primary would make sense.

Maximum and continuous current rating terms definitely come into play with these inexpensive DiSEqC positioners. Gbox and Vbox are generic names for positioners produced at many factories, so there are many designs and components for similarly named units.

 

[Cosmo Blatz]

I agree that a fuse "should" be rated at least equal to or greater than the specifications current rating. I also question, like Pixil, the position of the fuse. 2 amp on the primary would make sense.

The 2 amp fuse is definitely in the secondary. With the 2 amp fuse removed, the box powers up normally, but gives the "ER" message when a move command is executed. The fuse is right before the large set of bridge rectifier diodes.

There are two pairs of secondary windings. One set for the actuator drive and one set (I guess) for the logic voltage(s).

 

[Titanium]

On most G/Vboxes, the maximum momentary current draw is 3 or 4 amps and the voltage drops significantly under load. Quite typical for these units to output 15-20Vdc at 2amps under load.

You will often see "liberties" and "marketing embellishments" with specifications. Often when the manufacturer is asked for the product specification, the reply is, "what do you want us to print?"

 

[Cosmo Blatz]

On most G/Vboxes, the maximum momentary current draw is 3 or 4 amps and the voltage drops significantly under load. Quite typical for these units to output 15-20Vdc at 2amps under load.

You will often see "liberties" and "marketing embellishments" with specifications. Often when the manufacturer is asked for the product specification, the reply is, "what do you want us to print?"

I hear you. Like those $99.00 5-channel 1200 watt audio systems. With a couple of heavy duty relays and an outboard 36v power supply...hmmm

EDIT: Oh Oh! My old Uniden 9900 has a separate box with the 36 volt supply and the relays!

 

[Titanium]

A wee bit of difference in hardware quality...

Here is a photo of the inside of an ASC1. Minor differences with the G/Vbox build... LOL!

 

[Cosmo Blatz]

A wee bit of difference in hardware quality...

Here is a photo of the inside of an ASC1. Minor differences with the G/Vbox build... LOL!

View attachment 98709

O.K. very 'slight' difference in quality. BUT the VBOX has a roomier interior than the ASC1. Also, notice the 'soft touch' pad on the VBOX transformer top. Plenty of room under the VBOX's hood for maintenance. Additionally, see how the innovative VBOX design has no need for unsightly heat sinks. (The fuse will blow before anything gets too hot.) And that VBOX power cord strain relief - is Underwriters Laboratory approved!

 

[Titanium]

O.K. very 'slight' difference in quality. BUT the VBOX has a roomier interior than the ASC1. Also, notice the 'soft touch' pad on the VBOX transformer top. Plenty of room under the VBOX's hood for maintenance. Additionally, see how the innovative VBOX design has no need for unsightly heat sinks. (The fuse will blow before anything gets too hot.) And that VBOX power cord strain relief - is Underwriters Laboratory approved!

LOL!!! Love dry humor!