Mobile radio and power supply

[CAvoyager1960]

Wasn't sure where to post this. I'm using a mobile radio (Radioddity Q-40) running on a power supply as my "base station". This is a 10 meter radio but currently using it on 11 meters (until I get my license) The power supply is only 6 amp (radio requires 8 amp) so I can't turn the power all the way up... doesn't matter, it's working fine. Both radio and PS are new. Here's the issue... I was listening (crappy conditions, lots of noise and no contacts) and laid down hoping to hear something. I fell asleep LOL Woke up hours later and my power supply was getting hot... just on receive. I have done this before and it didn't get hot. I noticed I had left the power turned up (usually don't when just listening) So my question is... even though I'm not actually transmitting, does my radio still draw more current just because the power setting is turned up? I played with this idea for a few days... seems to be true. Am I imagining this or does the radio still draw more power "waiting/idling"? When actually transmitting (same power setting) the PS does not get any hotter than when not transmitting. Forgot to mention... this is NOT a "switching" PS (I like the old type... "linear" if that's what you call it.
On a sidenote: my room gets hot (long story) I'd like to run a small 12 V fan for the PS... can I run it off the PS or it that going to make things worse?

 

[CAvoyager1960]

For now, I have a small rechargable fan I can use but it doesn't last long on a charge.

 

[mmckenna]

So my question is... even though I'm not actually transmitting, does my radio still draw more current just because the power setting is turned up?

If by "turned up", you are talking about the RF power, no, it shouldn't.

this is NOT a "switching" PS (I like the old type... "linear" if that's what you call it.

Transformers get warm, that's what they do. Not sure what brand/model you have, but some may run warmer than others. Even without transmitting, the radio is still using power and that will mean the power supply will generate some heat. Having it in a warm room with poor air circulation is going to compound the issue.

On a sidenote: my room gets hot (long story) I'd like to run a small 12 V fan for the PS... can I run it off the PS or it that going to make things worse?

A small fan likely won't be an issue. You will be adding to the current draw, so you need to make sure you are not overloading things when transmitting.

Cheap fans can be a bit noisy, so if you start getting interference, try disconnecting the fan and see if it resolves.

 

[CAvoyager1960]

Cheap fans can be a bit noisy, so if you start getting interference, try disconnecting the fan and see if it resolves.

Thank you for the responses. I know these type of PS get hot but I swear it's worse when I have RF output power up (even when just receiving) I guess it just depends on how long I have the PS on... slowly builds up heat) That makes sense. I knew a small fan wouldn't draw much current but was concerned about noise. Going to try the cordless rechargeable fan (see how much it helps and if it creates noise)
Hey, the PS has all kinds of protection stuff (including overheating) and I don't push it (I mostly turn it off when not using the radio... it cools off quickly)

 

[CAvoyager1960]

This is my power supply:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000A896GG?ref=emc_s_m_5_i_atc&th=1

 

[prcguy]

This is my power supply:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000A896GG?ref=emc_s_m_5_i_atc&th=1

That power supply should power your radio ok in SSB mode at full power briefly but you would be taxing it to the limit in FM mode where it will get really hot. It will typically get warm just receiving and the longer its receiving the warmer it will get without a fan. Better to just upgrade and there are many models to choose from with Astron SS series being my favorite.

 

[CAvoyager1960]

I'm trying the small fan (recharge battery)... even on low setting (it has low/med/high) it keeps my PS nice and cool Even that small air flow is all it needed. No noise. I'm good for now. Here's the fan (I got it at walmart closeout sale for $5) Here's the fan:
USB-Rechargeable Portable Mini Desk Fan – 3 Speed Settings, Ultra-Quiet, Space-Saving Design for Home, Office & Halloween Workstations - Walmart.com

 

[CAvoyager1960]

Eventually, I'll get a 10 amp PS with a built-in fan (when I'm ready to work 10 meter) but this is working fine for now.

 

[KC5AKB]

Eventually, I'll get a 10 amp PS with a built-in fan (when I'm ready to work 10 meter) but this is working fine for now.

Shop around if you plan on getting a 100 watt hf radio later on get a 30 amp one and be done.

 

[CAvoyager1960]

The most I can do on my radio is 12 watts AM and 35 watts SSB. I don't plan on getting another radio (or adding an amp)

 

[EAFrizzle]

I don't plan on getting another radio...

Many people don't. But the Radio Reindeer will be making a pass later this year. 😉

 

[KG0FS]

Weird suggestion, please don't laugh:
My laptop gets warm after 10-15min of videos. Shuts down. I filled a couple socks with rice, keep in freezer. Lay on keyboard at times.