Hamilton Spectrograph

This section contains descriptions of the electronics version 2 of the Hamilton Spectrograph.

AC Module/Wiring Diagram, EL-4007

Schematic: schematics/HAM_II_AC_box_sh_1.pdf
Page last updated: October 16, 2009

The Hamilton controller includes AC wiring for the power supplies, power relays, and a single socket for a 'wall wart'-type power supply. This internal socket is supplied for use with a small network hub/switch. Such a hub will be used if the earlier slit room upgrade components are moved into this chassis. The AC box also includes one extra AC connection, via CPC connector, for possible future use. The box has been built in such a way that it slides in and out of the controller chassis on card guides. This modular construction technique allows for quick replacement of key functions as blocks and it helps to keep the AC circuitry inside shielding. Though there are not many components associated with this module, the intention is to have an 'on the shelf' spare.

A note on grounding: the GND terminal of the power entry module, along with the GND terminals of each of the other sockets, is wired to a screw provided specifically for this purpose. Common safety practices dictate that the GND common point must be used for that purpose only. That is to say, it must not be also used as say, a connector mounting screw. This screw also has a 'Qiuk Disconnect' connection on the external panel that allows a GND connection to the main chassis.
Also,
To help clarify where components are mounted, I've adopted the terms external and internal panels. The external panel refers to the panel that contains the AC entry module and fuses F1 and F2. This is the panel that is seen when facing the controller chassis from the rear. The internal panel is at the rear on the AC box but is internal to the controller chassis. Mounted on this panel are the four CPC connectors and two more fuse holders.

The schematic shows that AC power enters via a multipurpose entry module, a Qualtek 880-06/006. This unit provides a two pole power switch, a fuse, and an EMI filter. The Line and Neutral terminals are wired directly to the terminal strip TB1. Again, the GND terminal is wired to the common GND screw. Essentially, the box contains five AC circuits. The first circuit, AC1, is wired through the 1.5A fuse F1. The second circuit, AC2, is wired through the 1.5A fuse F2. These two circuits are designated for the 24V and 5V power supplies. The third circuit, AC3, is wired through the 3A fuse F3 and powers the circuits controlled by the internal relays such as the polar quartz lamp and ThAr turning mirror. (Turning Mirror is the new name for the mirror that pneumatically moves into position when the Thorium lamp is turned on. This used to called the Prism.) The fourth circuit, AC4, is wired through fuse F4 and is a spare circuit. The last circuit, AC5, is wired to the AC recptacle for the hub/switch, if used, and is protected by the main fuse located in the Qualtek module.