Power Components
; "Power products")
Our power systems are modular to fit any synthesizer configuration.
The best power system configuration depends on the cabinet style, number of cabinets, module spaces, and your future expansion plans.
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Power Tutorial
Our power systems are modular to fit any synthesizer configuration.
If you're purchasing one of our preconfigured systems, then all the power products are included.
If your synthesizer will be mostly like one of our pre-configured systems, then you can use its power product list as a guide.
The best power system configuration depends upon:- Cabinet style
- Number of cabinets
- Total number of modules spaces
- Future expansion plans
So, you need to know which cabinet style you'll be using first.
Click the FAQ button above and browse the common questions.
Then to decide which power products are best for your system, click on the Examples button to find a system configuration similar to yours. It's fairly simple and from there you can add power products as needed.
; "DC Power Connectors")
We use this type of connector to carry DC power between cabinets, to controllers, and from external power supplies:
These are called QIC cables (Interconnect Cables).
; "Module Power Connectors")
Modules use this type of connector inside the cabinets:
Internal cable harnesses connect internal power supples to modules.
; "AC IEC Power Connectors")
Our power products use IEC AC power connectors like this:
We supply power cables for the US, others must supply their own to match their outlets.
Here are the power products used to create a power system.
- Power modules Q101,
Q102,
Q103,
Q137:
Used along with internal power supplies to provide power switch, fuse and AC connections. - Power supplies QPS1,
QPS2,
QPS3,
QPS4,
QPS5,
QPS6:
Converts AC power to DC power required by the modules. - Internal power harnesses QDH20,
QDH40:
Delivers DC power to individual modules. - Cabinet interconnect cables QIC:
Allows cabinets to share power.
Spaces vs modules:
Cabinets provide a certain number of module spaces such as 11, 22 or 44.
Some modules are 1 space wide, some consume 2 spaces, and some are as big as 8.
So, the number of modules in a system is usually not the same as the number of spaces.
Power supplies are rated for a certain number of module spaces and this rating works in almost every situation even though it doesn't specify the exact number of modules, and different modules draw different current. The averages work out. If you have cabinets with 66 spaces, then use a QPS1 Power Supply designed to power 66 spaces which will typically be less than 66 modules.
On a 22-space cabinet, the QDH-20 power harness provides 20 module power cables. On a 44-space cabinet, the QDH-40 power harness provides 40 module power cables.
If you wish to calculate the required power more precisely, use our Spreadsheet or SynthInvent.
Some quick and general guidelines:
Studio Systems
For a 44-space single-cabinet Studio system use this:1) Q102 Power interface module for the back to accept AC
1) QPS1 Internal power supply for up to 66 spaces
1) QDH40 Internal power harness for 40 modules in 44-space cabinet
1) Q102 Power interface module for the back to accept AC
2) Q103 DC interface module to share DC power between cabinets
1) QPS1 Internal power supply for up to 66 spaces
1) QDH20 Internal power harness for 20 modules in 22-space cabinet
1) QDH40 Internal power harness for 40 modules in 44-space cabinet
1) QIC DC power cable connects cabinets and controllers, 24".
1) Q102 Power interface module for the back to accept AC
3) Q103 DC interface module to share DC power between cabinets
1) QPS3 Internal power supply for up to 110 spaces
2) QDH20 Internal power harness for 20 modules in 22-space cabinet
1) QDH40 Internal power harness for 40 modules in 44-space cabinet
1) QIC DC power cable connects cabinets and controllers, 16".
1) QIC DC power cable connects cabinets and controllers, 24".
Box Systems
For an 11,22, and 33-space Box system use this: For a 33+ space Box system use this:Portable Systems
For a 22-space single-cabinet Portable system use this:1) QPS1 Internal power supply for up to 66 spaces
1) QDH20 Internal power harness for 20 modules
1) Q103 DC interface module to share DC power between cabinets
1) QPS1 Internal power supply for up to 66 spaces
2) QDH20 Internal power harness for 20 modules
1) QIC DC power cable connects cabinets and controllers, 16".
Rack Systems
For an 8 or 24-space Rack system use this:1) QIC-H QIC to QDH adapter
1) QDH20 Internal power harness for 20 modules
Click on the Products button to see more details about each power product.
Then add those items to your synthesizer order.
Don't hesitate to use our Contact form for questions.
Power FAQ
Q: 110v and 220v?
A: Yes, all of our power supplies will run on 110v or 220v
Q: A fuse blew.
A: Fuses are designed to turn off a power system due to an over-current condition. If a fuse blows, there's a reason, it's probably not just a bad fuse. Don't just automatically replace the fuse, and definitely don't put aluminium foil or something in there, that's very dangerous. Unplug the AC power cable and inspect the power components for the problem. If you have too many modules on a small power supply, that could cause it. If you have modules from another manufacturer that draws a lot of current, that could cause it. If you have a DIY power system that is mis-wired, that could cause it. If there is a bad power supply or a broken wire, or a shorted wire, those could all cause the fuse to blow too.
Q: Power cord?
A: We provide a power cord for USA 110v operation. You must supply the power cord for other locations. Use a cord with an IEC C13 connector on one end to plug into the synthesizer, and a plug on the other end to match your outlets. IEC C13 connectors are the standard connector used with many office machines, computers, etc.
Q: DC Voltages?
A: Our power systems produce +15V, -15V and +5V.
Q: Adapters?
A: We do not sell adapters to connect other products to our power systems or our products to other power systems. Damage to products caused by DIY or 3rd party adapters is not covered under warranty.
Q: DIY?
A: Due to the potential problems and dangers with DIY (Do-It-Yourself) power systems and modifications of power systems, we do not offer advice about this and strongly recommend against it. Modules and other products damaged by DIY power systems or modifications to our power systems are not warranted. Do yourself a favor and buy a working and tested power system, it is the backbone of your system.
Q: Two Power Supplies in a System?
A: Yes, you can have 2 or more power supplies in a system. That allows each cabinet with a power supply to operate alone. Good for traveling gigs. Make sure NOT to connect the two power sources together using a QIC cable.
Q: Spaces vs Modules?
A: Cabinets offer a certain number of module spaces such as 11, 22 or 44. Many modules consume only 1 space, but some consume 2 or 4 or 8 spaces. A discussion about how spaces vs modules relates to power supplies can be found in the Tutorial section.
If you have a question, use our Contact form.
Power Products
Here are the power products used to create a power system
- Power modules
Q101 Power switch module for the front, use with Q102 (Page)
Q102 Power AC module for the back, use with Q101 (Page)
Q103 DC interface module to share DC between cabinets (Page)
Q137 All-in-one power control/interface module (Page)
- Power supplies
QPS1 Internal power supply for up to 66 spaces (Page)
QPS3 Internal power supply for up to 110 spaces (Page)
QPS4 External power supply for 11 spaces and controllers (Page)
QPS5 External power supply for 66 spaces and controllers (Page)
QPS6 External power supply for 33 spaces and controllers (Page)
QPS2 DISCONTINUED External power system with 8-module harness. (Page) - Internal power harnesses
QDH20 Internal power harness for 20 modules (Page)
QDH40 Internal power harness for 40 modules (Page)
- Cabinet interconnect cables
QIC DC cable connects cabinets and controllers (Page)
Q101 Power Control Module
The Q101 Power Control Module is designed to mount on the front of a Studio system for easy access to the power switch. It is used along with a Q102 Power Interface Module which is normally placed on the back of the cabinet.
The Q101 and Q102 power module pair are the best choice for Studio cabinets.
See the Q101 module page for more info.
Q102 Power Interface Module
The Q102 AC Power Interface Module is designed to mount on the back of a Studio system to connect to the AC power source.
The Q102 AC Power Interface Module must be used in conjunction with the Q101 Power Control Module.
See the Q102 module page for more info.
Q103 DC Power Interface Module
The Q103 DC Power Interface Module provides a way to share DC power from one cabinet to another cabinet or controller via QIC cabinet interconnect cables.
On Studio systems, the Q103 is best used on the back of the cabinets so the cabling is hidden. On Portable systems, the Q103 will be mounted on the front since they have no openings in the back.
See the Q103 module page for more info.
Q137 Power Control & Interface Module
The Q137 Power Control & Interface Module is an all-in-one power module providing AC input, AC voltage selector, fuse, power switch, and a DC power connection with LED voltage indicators.
The Q137 is perfect for Portable cabinets where there are no module openings on the back.
See the Q137 module page for more info.
QPS1 Internal Power Supply for 66 Spaces
The QPS1 internal power supply provides DC power for systems up to 66 spaces. The QPS1 is plug-and-go with an AC connection for a Q137 all-in-one power module, or the Q101/Q102 power module pair. A DC connection for a QDH power harness carries power to the modules.
To calculate the power needed by your system, add the current for each voltage needed by each module. Since most modules draw less than 30ma on the +/-15 volt rails, and some draw none, the QPS1 will typically power a system of 66 spaces or more. You can also use our Spreadsheet or SynthInvent to calculate these values.
See the QPS1 page for more info.
QPS2 Power System for 8 Modules
The QPS2 is retired.
Replaced by the QPS6 Power Supply
This info for reference only.
The QPS2 external power system provides a cost-effective, all-in-one power solution for small systems up to 8 modules. A built-in power harness for 8 modules is provided. No additional power modules or cables are required.
The QPS2 does not offer a power switch or external fuse, but those functions can be provided with a common power strip.
To calculate the power needed by your system, add the current for each voltage needed by each module. You can also use our Spreadsheet or SynthInvent to calculate these values.
See the QPS2 page for more info.
QPS3 Internal Power Supply for 110 Spaces
The QPS3 internal power supply provides power for very large systems up to 110 spaces. The QPS3 is plug-and-go with an AC connection for a Q137 all-in-one power module, or the Q101/Q102 power module pair. A DC connection for a QDH power harness carries power to the modules.
The QPS3 will typically power a system up to 110 spaces (spaces, not modules). You can also use our Spreadsheet or SynthInvent to calculate these values.
See the QPS3 page for more info.
QPS4 External Power Supply for 11 Spaces
The QPS4 may be used to power keyboard controllers, wheel controllers
and Box1,2,4 cabinets.
For powering systems we recommend using the QPS6 power supply which can handle up to 33-spaces. For systems larger than 33-spaces we recommend using the QPS5 power supply.
The QPS4 does not offer a power switch or external fuse - those functions can be provided with a common power strip.
See the QPS4 page for more info.
QPS5 External Power Supply for 66 Spaces
The QPS5 is an external power supply for Box11 systems up to 66 spaces, and multiple controllers. The QPS5 provides 8 DC power cables to connect to cabinets and controllers.
The QPS5 can power any style of cabinet through a Q103 DC Interface module via a QIC cable. The receiving cabinet must also have an internal QDH power harness to connect to the modules.
To calculate the power needed by your system, add the current for each voltage needed by each module. You can also use our Spreadsheet or SynthInvent to calculate these values.
See the QPS5 page for more info.
; "Click for large image of the QDH Internal Module DC Power Harness")
QPS6 External Power Supply for 33 Spaces
The QPS6 external power supply provides power for approximately 33 spaces of modules.
AC input is 110 or 220VAC using a standard 3-prong IEC C13 connector.
The QPS6 uses our standardized DC power connector to provide power directly to our Box11 cabinets, controllers, and our portable Moog expansion cabinets. Use the QIC-W for cabinets or the QIC-H to power a QDH20.
The QPS6 can also provide power to portable cabinets or studio cabinets using a Q103 DC Power Module.
QDH Power Harness
The QDH power harness delivers DC power to the modules from a QPS1 or QPS3 power supply, or from a Q103 DC power module that is getting its power from another cabinet.
Some modules consume more than one space, and some modules don't require power like the Q124 Multiple. The QDH20 harness has 10) 24-inch cables, and 10) 36-inch cables which is normally enough for a 22-space cabinet. The QDH40 harness has 20) 24-inch cables, and 20) 36-inch cables which is normally enough for a 44-space cabinet.
See the QDH page for more info.
QIC Cabinet Interconnect Cable
QIC cables carry DC power between cabinets and to controllers.
For portable cabinets next to each other, use the 16" cable. For studio systems having a 22-space cabinet on top of a 44-space cabinet, use the 24" cable. For an upside-down tilted studio cabinet use the 48" cable.
For setups using the QPS6 power supply, use the QIC-W to power multiple cabinets or the QIC-H to power a QDH20 assembly.
See the QIC page for more info.
Note: Specifications subject to change.
Power Examples
First, select a cabinet style:
Studio System Power Examples
Single Studio Cabinet Example
Here's an example of a single studio cabinet. It has 22 spaces on the front and 4 on the back. The Q101 Power Control Module is mounted on the front and provides the power switch and external DC access for additional cabinets. The Q102 AC Interface Module is mounted on the back and provides AC entry. You can also put a Q103 DC Interface Module on the back to supply DC power to additional cabinets.
Power Components:
1) Q102 AC Interface Module
1) QPS1 Power Supply
1) QDH20 DC Power Harness for 20 Modules
Dual/Triple Studio Cabinet Example
Here's an example of a dual studio cabinet setup. 44-spaces on the bottom and 22 on the top. Remember, studio cabinets have spaces on the back for modules. The Q101 Power Control Module is mounted on the front of the main cabinet and provides the power switch and external DC access for additional cabinets. The Q102 AC Interface Module is mounted on the back of the main cabinet and provides AC entry. Also on the back is a Q103 DC Interface Module to supply DC power to the other cabinet. An Inter-cabinet cable (QIC) carries power from one cabinet to the other. The top cabinet has a Q103 DC Interface Module to receive power from the main cabinet. Only one power supply is needed.
To add another 22-space cabinet
Just put a Q103 DC interface module on the back of the next cabinet, a QDH20 harness inside, and connect it
to the cabinet underneith with a QIC cable.
Power Components:
1) Q102 AC Interface Module
2) Q103 DC Interface Module
1) QPS1 Power Supply
1) QDH20 DC Power Harness for 20 Modules
1) QDH40 DC Power Harness for 40 Modules
1) QIC-24 QIC Inter-Cabinet DC Power Cable - 24"
Large Multiple Studio Cabinet Example
Here's an example of a larger (Greater than 66 space) multiple studio cabinet system. For giant systems like this, use our large QPS3 power supply. The Q101 Power Control Module is mounted on the front of the main cabinet and provides the power switch and external DC access for additional cabinets. The Q102 AC Interface Module is mounted on the back of the main cabinet and provides AC entry. Also on the back is a Q103 DC Interface Module to supply DC power to the other cabinet. An Inter-cabinet cable (QIC) carries power from one cabinet to the other. The other cabinets have a Q103 DC Interface Module to receive power from the main cabinet. Only one power supply is needed.
Power Components:
Box System Power Examples
11-Space Box System Example
Here's an example of a single Box11 cabinet with 11 spaces using a single QPS6 power supply. Box11 cabinets have a built-in internal power harness so you don't need a QDH. And you don't need a power module, just a QPS6 or QPS5 power supply.
; "Click for larger image")
Power Components:
Multi-Cabinet Box System Example
Here's an example of a multi-cabinet Box11 system. For multiple cabinets, use a QPS5 power supply instead of individual QPS4 power supplies.
; "Click for larger image")
Power Components:
Portable System Power Examples
22-Space Single Portable Cabinet Example
Here's an example of a single portable cabinet with 22 spaces. The Q137 Power Control & Interface Module provides the power switch, AC entry, and DC power connectors. No other power module is needed.
; "Click for larger image")
Power Components:
1) QPS1 Power Supply
1) QDH20 DC Power Harness for 20 Modules
44-Space Dual Portable Cabinet Example
Here's an example of a dual-cabinet portable cabinet with 44 total spaces. The Q137 Power Control & Interface Module provides the power switch, AC entry, and a DC power connector for the other cabinet. The Q103 DC Power Module receives DC power from the main cabinet via a QIC cable. This example also works for studio cabinets if you want to use the Q137 all-in-one module, instead of the Q101/Q102 pair.
; "Click for larger image")
Power Components:
Rack System Power Examples
Small 8-Module Rack System Example
This example shows our compact QPS6 Power supply. The QPS6 is great for small systems because it connect straight to a QDH-20 using a QIC-H and doesn't require any power modules - Purchase the QPS6 and QIC-H and you can power up to 3 QCR8 frames.
; "Click for larger image")
Power Components:
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