MOTM

> Maybe there could be a bracket for another power distribution board on
> there?  What kind of solutions have y'all come up with for the power
> distribution problem?
> thanks & peace,
> Chris Jeris

Well, I guess the solution may be different for those with MOTM-900s and
those with separate "case" style power supplies.  Since I don't have a
MOTM-900, I don't know exactly how those connections are made.  I have a
"case" style power supply and here is how I do it.

The case supply has terminals that wires may be soldered directly to.  The
biggest size wire that I found would nicely fit that terminal is # 14.  I
bought two of Paul's power distribution boards (MOTM-900PCB) @ $16 each). 
These board have a standard size wire terminals for the input and 12
connectors for the distribution with standard MOTM cables.  Eventually I
will need another one or two of these.  Anyhow, I also use what I call a
terminal strip which is a bakelite connection device about 2" X 8" with two
rows of screws to attach standand size wire terminals (the kind with
holes).  These standard wire terminals I speak of are available in any good
hardware store or even RS I think.  They are made to be crimped on, but I
always solder mine.  99% of all the low voltage wiring is power stations is
made with these crimp style connectors (a little heavier variety that the
ones you will probably find).

So, I made short # 14 jumpers that run from my power supply to the terminal
board.  I have longer # 14 jumpers that run from that terminal board to
each of my MOTM-900 PCBs so that the 900 PCBs can be mounted close to the
group of modules they will provide power to.  I sized my terminal board to
connect up to four MOTM-900 PCBs as that amount would more than cover the
capacity of the power supply.

There are several ways to do this.  However, what is important (in my
opinion and correct me if I am wrong here Paul) is to have the power
distribution system resembling a "star" rather than a daisy chain.  By
using the large wire to connect the power supply to the MOTM-900 panels,
they are all electrically still very close to the actual power supply.

The # 14 wire I am using is different that what you may find at the store. 
It is a utility grade wire that is very flexible and has an ultra thin 600
volt insulation.  We use it at work for panel wiring and buy it by the
mile.  Short pieces less than 20 feet are literally scrap and available for
free (as they would be thrown away).  So, If anyone needs some nice # 14
wire for power distribution inside your MOTM cabinet, send me your name and
mailing address and how many feet you think you need (be specific, like 3
pieces 10 foot each or something) and I will send it to any current MOTM
customer just for the asking.

Paul, I have no need for a power distribution panel on the 1U 19" unit you
are "thinking" about.  However, if you do add a power distribution panel as
others have the need, I would like to suggest one just like your
MOTM-900PCB.

Larry Hendry