ARK for Mac Mini

 

For the last years  I have built many linear power supplies optimized for different equipments including Mac Mini also, one of the highly desired source component of computer based audio.

 

Mac Mini is slightly different from the others when we consider the the power entry section.  It has built in switch mode power supply working directly with 110/220V AC power.  Modification is needed in order to connect external dc power supply unit. This was done by myself.

  

 

 

There are some tricks for designing good linear power supply for cpu based equipments. The most important factor is transient response ability. Cpu load which is not stable, result in dramatically changes in power consumption. When we design ideal linear power supply for such equipment, low noise output is not enough..it should react fast to instantaneously changed cpu loads.

 

 

 

 

ARK for Mac Mini consist of 

 

• High current fast IXYS FRED rectifier bridge
• CRC based smooting filter with Elna and Vishay BC (2 x 15.000uf ) capacitor
• Dual 5A continuous rate high transient response regulators from Linear tech (total 10A continuous output power)
• Low esr, fast Nichicon R7 output capacitor bypassed with high quality MKP
• Over size 180VA audio quality toroidal transformer from Hammond.
• Customized output voltage (can be set from 5V to 19V using onboard trimports) Default is 12V for latest Mac Mini models.
• CNC machined aluminium enclosure (matching colour to Mac's enclosure)
• * DC trap module can be added to AC power entry (optional)