View Single Post
  #3   Report Post  
Posted to rec.audio.tubes
Phil Allison Phil Allison is offline
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 1,444
Default Diodes on Cathode?


"Gareth Magennis"
Hi,

what is the purpose of the reverse biased diodes on the OPT/Cathodes as in
this Fender circuit?



** They are not simple diodes, nor are they on the cathodes.

They ARE diode strings wired from each plate to ground.


http://www.schematicheaven.com/fende...er_60_rack.pdf



** The two " R3000 " prevent the plate voltage from swinging negative by
more than 2 volts or so - something all tube amps do when overdriven into a
reactive ( ie speaker) load.

Peak negative plate voltage can exceed 2000 volts and damage the insulation
of the tube, the socket or the OT.


I need to replace a faulty one and am having difficulty sourcing the part
Fender use (R3000). Does this need to be a specific type of diode or can
I make up the 3kV diode required using standard 1Kv rectifier types?



** The later is generally OK.

Use " fast " diodes, if possible



........ Phil