Transformer Power Supply
Switching Power Supply
Replacement Cabinet for Altair 680
This cabinet has a similar appearance to the original Altair cabinet but is not dimensionally the same. Note the bottom has support pads to support the main board. The original Altair case had two threaded inserts to mount the board; there was one rubber bumper supplied. Note the replacement case has 6 support pads in addition to the two threaded inserts which secures the board to the case. All locations where screws hold the case together have brass inserts. There is no concern of a screw stripping out.
The case is slightly deeper than the original. In the original Altair case the transformer covered the memory along the back edge of the main board. In the replacement case the transformer doesn't cover the main board as much, and the transformers were moved as high as possible for more clearance between the ram chips and the transformer.
The case has a fan with a power switch. In many instances the fan may not be needed. The reproduction boards use DC-DC switching regulators instead of the usual 7805 type. The switching regulators produce very little heat. The slots in the cover should provide adequate cooling in most applications. Should you install an original Altair main board you definitely will need the fan. Testing so far suggests that even with the MIO board installed there is little need for the fan.
The cabinet is available in two versions. One version uses transformers like the original. The other version uses switching power supplies. The fan is a DC brushless fan with power input of 120-240VAC. The transformer version ships wired for 120V but the transformers can be wired for 240V.
The switching power supply is expected to be available in late March.
| Altair-case-TR | Altair Cabinet with transformer power supply - Wired for 120V | $235 |
| Altair-case-SW | Altair Cabinet with switching power supply 100-240V 50-60HZ. | $215 |