Page 38 - Triwatt Custom Lead Amp Builder's Guide

TRIWATT Completed Board Top View

Diode Orientation: Pay particular attention to the orientation of the 5 diodes when they are
installed. Even though Rectifier diodes are quite robust and require no special precautions for
soldering them, use a minimum amount of heat.

Diodes must be connected the correct way round, and circuit diagrams may be labeled 'a' or '+' for
anode and 'k' or '-' for cathode (yes, it really is 'k', not 'c', for cathode!). The cathode is marked by
a line painted on the body of the diode. Diodes are labeled
with their code in small print, and you may need a
magnifying glass to read! The diagram below shows the
orientation of the 1N4007 diode.

Testing Diodes: If you ever need to test a diode, you can
test with an ohm meter, using a setting that shows a picture
of a diode on it. Put it to that setting and just put the red
(+ve) lead on one leg of the diode and the black lead on the
other leg. If you get a resistance reading the cathode is on the side where the black lead is. If you
get no reading the cathode is where the red lead is. If there is a dead short you will get a buzz tone
out of the meter. Same as if you touched the leads together.

Now, cut connecting wires to the control side in various colors to about 9” to 12” long each and
to about 6” long to the tube pin side. We suggest you confirm the approximate lengths before
cutting.

Use 18/20 gauge stranded wire for connections to ground, power switch, B+ to output
transformer and diodes. These can be cut-offs from installing the transformers or any provided
wire.

Following the layout, install the connecting wires to the bottom of the board leaving plenty of
extra length, wire is cheap, and it'll save aggravation later.

When the board is built, double check all components, jumpers and leads against the layout. If all
is correct, carefully install the board into the amp. Locate the 4 -#6 X 1” screws, spacers and lock

TrinityAmps TRIWATT Builders Guide Ver. 2.31.docx- 38 -