PowerPac

Basic Power
Supply
Instruction
Manual
Catalog Number
164-5050

For Technical Service Call Your Local Bio-Rad Office or in the U.S. Call 1-800-424-6723

Table of Contents
Page
Safety.................................................................................................................i
Section 1
1.1
1.2

Introduction ......................................................................................................1
Overview ..........................................................................................................1
Unpacking ........................................................................................................2

Section 2

Control Features ...............................................................................................3

Section 3

Setup and Operation.........................................................................................4

Section 4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4

Maintenance and Troubleshooting.....................................................................7

Maintenance.....................................................................................................7
Troubleshooting................................................................................................7
Replacing a Fuse ..............................................................................................9
Firmware Version Number .................................................................................9

Appendix A

Specifications .................................................................................................10

Appendix BWarranty and Ordering Information .......................................................................11

List of Figures
1. Front View.
2. Rear View.
3. Front View with Legs in Lowered Position.
4. Front Panel.
5. Power Leads Connected Correctly.
6. Power Leads Connected Incorrectly.
7. Rear View Showing Fuse Drawer with Notches.

2012 Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. All rights reserved.

Safety
Caution/Warning
!

PowerPac power supplies use high output voltages that are electrically isolated from earth
ground to minimize the risk of electrical shock to the user. The following guidelines should
be observed and followed when using a PowerPac power supply.
PowerPac power supplies have passed test for operation at temperatures between 0 and
40 C, with relative humidity between 0 and 95% non-condensing. Operating the power
supply outside these conditions is not recommended by Bio-Rad and will void the
warranty.
1. To ensure adequate cooling of the power supply, be sure that there is at least 6 cm
clearance around the power supply. Do not block the fan vents at the rear of the unit.
2. Always connect the power supply to a 3-prong, grounded AC outlet, using the
3-prong AC power cord provided with the power supply.
3. Bio-Rad electrophoresis cells have molded two-prong plugs that are inserted into the
power supply's high voltage output jacks. These plugs have been EN 61010* certified
for safety compliance for use with PowerPac power supplies. Use of other plugs or
banana jacks is done at the user's own risk and is not recommended by Bio-Rad.
When inserting and removing the molded two-prong plug, always grasp the plug by the
molded support at the rear of the plug. Do not grasp the individual prong ends.
4. Do not operate the power supply in extreme humidity (>95%) or where condensation
can short the internal electrical circuits of the power supply.
5. When taking the power supply into a cold room, the unit can be operated
immediately. However, when removing the power supply from the cold room, let the
unit equilibrate to room temperature for a minimum of 2 hours before using it.
6. Never connect a high voltage output lead to earth ground. This defeats the floating
electrical isolation of the power supply and exposes the user to potentially lethal high
voltages.

Important
This instrument is intended for laboratory use only.
This product conforms to the class A standards for Electromagnetic Emissions, intended
for laboratory equipment applications. It is possible that emissions from this product may
interfere with some sensitive appliances when placed nearby or on the same circuit as
those appliances. The user should be aware of this potential and take appropriate
measures to avoid interference.
Bio-Rad's PowerPac power supplies are designed and certified to meet EN 61010* safety
standards. Certified products are safe to use when operated in accordance with the
instruction manual. This safety certification does not extend to electrophoresis cells or
accessories that are not EN 61010 certified, even when connected to this power supply.
This instrument should not be modified or altered in any way. Alteration of this instrument
will void the manufacturer's warranty, void the EN 61010 certification, and create a
potential safety hazard for the user.
Bio-Rad is not responsible for any injury or damage caused by the use of this instrument
for purposes other than those for which it is intended, or by modifications of the
instrument not performed by Bio-Rad or an authorized agent.

*EN 61010 is an internationally accepted electrical safety standard for laboratory instruments.

Section 1
Introduction
1.1 Overview
The PowerPac Basic provides constant voltage or constant current to instruments used in
electrophoresis. The power supply operates at the values specified for the constant
parameter. However, to prevent damage to the electrophoresis cell, the PowerPac Basic
provides automatic crossover to constant current or constant voltage, depending on
which set value is first reached. When the set limit of the non-constant parameter is
reached, and the power capability of the unit is not exceeded, the power supply will
switch, making the non-constant parameter the new constant parameter.
Output specifications:
Voltage:

Adjustable from 10 to 300 Volts, in 1 volt increments.

Current:

Adjustable from 4 to 400 milliamperes (mA) in 1 mA increments.

Power:

75 watts (maximum).

Four output jacks:

Up to four identical electrophoresis cells can be connected in parallel

to the power supply.

FRONT PANEL
OUTPUT JACKS

Fig. 1. Front View.

AC INLET

POWER SWITCH

FUSE

Fig. 2. Rear View.

The PowerPac Basic has the following features:

Programmable constant voltage or constant current with automatic crossover

Timer control from 0 to 999 minutes

3-digit LED display

Pause mode for editing running parameters

Automatic detection of no load conditions and rapid changes in resistance

Power Failure Detection in timed modes allowing completion of run

Stackable case with adjustable viewing angle via flip down legs (see Figure 3)

LEGS
(LOWERED POSITION)

Fig. 3. Front View with Legs in Lowered Position.

1.2 Unpacking
When you receive the power supply, carefully inspect the container for any damage which
may have occurred in shipping. Severe damage to the container may indicate damage to
the power supply itself. If you suspect damage to the unit, immediately file a claim with the
carrier in accordance with their instructions before contacting Bio-Rad Laboratories.
After unpacking the PowerPac Basic, remove the plastic film from the translucent green
top case. The plastic film may leave a residue. If so, clean with a soft, damp cloth.
Contents include:

PowerPac Basic power supply

Power cord

Instruction manual

Warranty card

Declaration of conformity

If any part is missing or damaged, contact Bio-Rad Laboratories immediately.

Section 2
Control Features

3 DIGIT LED

DISPLAY MODE KEY

SCROLL KEYS

STOP KEY

CONSTANT
PARAMETER KEY

RUN AND PAUSE KEY

Fig. 3. Front Panel.

Key

Description
Constant Parameter Key:
Selects either constant voltage or current.
The LED indicates the selected parameter. During a run, maximum
power is indicated when both LEDs are lit.
Display Mode Key:
Selects the parameter to be displayed (volts, milliamperes or minutes).
The LED displays the value of the indicated parameter.
Scroll Keys:
Changes the value of the selected parameter. If the Scroll Key is
pressed constantly for more than 5 units in either direction, +/-, the
values will increase/decrease in increments of 10 to reach the desired
value faster.
Run & Pause Key:
Starts and pauses a run. Pausing allows editing of the constant
parameter and the parameter values.
Corresponding LED indicates the status of the power supply.
Stop key:
Stops run. Constant parameter and limit parameter values are
preserved. Timer is reset to zero.

Section 3
Setup and Operation
STEP

PROCEDURE

DESCRIPTION

1.

Turn power on.

Press the power switch located on the right

side of the unit to the on position.
The default setting is constant V, and the
LED display shows zero value.
To display firmware version number, hold
down constant parameter key while turning
the power switch to the on position.

2.

Connect the electrophoresis

cell(s) to the power supply.

The power leads are color coordinated to

the output terminals in red and black.
indicates high voltages.
Note: Power leads must be inserted
perpendicular to the curve of the case.

Fig. 5. Power leads connected correctly.

Fig. 6. Power leads connected incorrectly.

3.

Press the Constant key to select the

constant parameter, either voltage or
current The LED on the parameter key
corresponding to the selected constant
parameter will light up. The display shows
the zero value for the constant parameter.

Select the constant parameter

or

4.

Enter a value for the constant

parameter using the scroll key.

Use the scroll key to enter the desired value.

Voltage: 10300V adjustable in 1V increments.
Current: 4400 mA adjustable in 1 mA
increments.
Note: If the scroll key is pressed constantly
for more than 5 units in either direction, +/-,
the values will increase/decrease in
increments of 10 to reach the desired value
faster.

5.

Enter value for limit parameter.

For volts
For milliamperes

Use the parameter key to select the limit

parameter. The maximum default value,
300V or 400mA, is displayed. Select a suitable
limit value to avoid excessive power
conditions for the application.

STEP

PROCEDURE

DESCRIPTION

6.

Programming a timed run

Use the parameter key to select time. The

display will show a zero value. Use the scroll
key to enter the desired time up to 999 min..
If no time is entered the run will continue
until the run is terminated by pressing the
stop key. When 999 minutes is reached, the
clock resets to zero and the run continues.
Note:
In a timed run the displayed time is the
remaining time. Pressing the pause key
will keep the remaining time. Pressing
the stop key will reset the time to zero.

7.

In an untimed run the displayed time is the

elapsed time. Pressing the pause key will
retain the elapsed time.
Activating the Power failure detection mode
is possible for timed runs only.

Optional; available only when

a timed run is programmed.
Power Failure detection.

8.

Make sure the parameter key is in time

mode (time LED is lit)
Enter the desired time if not previously
entered
Hold down the stop key for ~2 seconds
until the display shows Pfd. This indicates
the Power Failure Detection is activated.

Caution: Always use the stop key

to terminate a run in progress. Use
of the power switch to terminate a
run in progress is treated as a
power failure and the appropriate Note: After completion or termination of a
error code is displayed when the run, the Power Failure Detect mode is
unit is turned back on
automatically de-activated. See Section 4.2,
Troubleshooting, for details on Power Failure
Detect error messages.
Certain applications exhibit fluctuations in
Optional
De-activation of change in
resistance that can trigger the change in
resistance feature.
resistance error codes. If this is the case,
the change in resistance feature can be
de-activated to allow un-interrupted
completion of a run.

Make sure the parameter key is in

current mode (current LED is lit)
Hold down the stop key for ~2 sec until
the display shows dE9
Note: After completion or termination of a
run the Change in Resistance Detection is
automatically activated.
Caution: De-activating this safety feature
increases the chance of electrical hazard.

STEP

PROCEDURE

DESCRIPTION

9.

Start the run

Press the run/pause key to start the run.

The run LED is lit.

10.

Viewing and editing options

during a run.

Viewing: Press the parameter key to

view the corresponding value on the
display
Editing: Edit the constant parameter
value and the time value for timed runs

Note:
Editing the limit value is possible in the
pause mode. To change from an un-timed
to a timed run, stop the run and re-program.
11.

Pause mode

Press run/pause key during a run to enter

the pause mode.
When the pause LED is lit it is possible to:
Safely make adjustments to the
instrument connected to the power
supply
Edit the values for all parameters

Change the constant parameter

Note:
To change from an un-timed to a timed run,
stop the run and re-program.
12.

End of run.

When a run is completed, i.e., a timed run

has ended or an untimed run is stopped, the
constant parameter value and limit
parameter value are preserved. The timer is
reset to zero. Neither the run nor the pause
LED is lit,
indicating that no power is supplied to the
output jacks.

13.

Terminating a timed run in

progress

Press the stop key to terminate a timed run.

The constant parameter value and limit
parameter value are preserved. The timer is
reset to zero. Neither the run nor the pause
LED is lit indicating that no power is supplied
to the output jacks.

14.

Powering down

Press the stop key before turning the power

switch to the off position. If this is not done,
a power failure will be detected causing an
automatic restart if the Power Failure
Detection is enabled.

Section 4
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
4.1 Maintenance
The PowerPac Basic requires little maintenance to assure reliable operation. To clean the
case, first unplug the power supply. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the outer case.

4.2 Troubleshooting
Problem
No display/lights/fan

Cause
1. No AC power.
2. Blown fuse.
3. Power switch
exercised rapidly to
the on and off
positions.

Repeated blown fuses

Leads from cell are
not long enough to fit
output jacks

Hardware failure
Output terminals for the
PowerPac Basic are
recessed 16 mm to
meet safety regulations.
Some leads are not
long enough to make
electrical connection.
No load detected

E1 error code
displayed

Note: Use of the PowerPac Adaptor

voids EN61010 safety provisions.
Verify all electrical connections.
Verify buffer levels where appropriate.

E2 error code
displayed

E3 error code
displayed
E5 error code
Detection played
E6 error code
displayed
E7 error code
displayed

Instrument not
connected to PS
The current load is
below 4mA
Over current (load
current greater then
400 mA)

Solution
1. Check if PowerPac Basic is
unplugged, or problem with AC
power source, or power switch is in
off position.
2. Replace fuse. See section 4.3 for
details.
3. The unit needs to be reset. Turn
power switch to the off position,
wait 510 seconds, then turn
power switch to the on position to
resume
normal operation.
Contact Bio-Rad Technical Resources.
Use the PowerPac Adaptor, which
accommodates most standard 4 mm
banana plugs, to make a secure
electrical connection.

Check for and correct any short circuit

or excessive load problem. Excessive
load due to high buffer concentration
will require the buffer be remade.
Then,
Press
key to resume the run or,
To clear the error code, press any
key (other then
key).
Over voltage (load
Turn power supply off, then on to.
voltage over 300 V)
reset If problems persists, contact
Bio-Rad Technical Resources.
A power failure occurred during a timed run with Power Fail
(PFd) activated, and run is completed. Power Fail detection (Pfd) is
de-activated after completion or termination of each run.
A power failure occurred during a timed run without Power Fail
Detection (PFd) activated, and run is not completed.
Power Failure occurred during an untimed run or the power switch
was turned off before pressing stop,. and run is not completed.
Power Fail detect (Pfd) cannot be activated for untimed runs.

Problem
E8 error code
reset.
displayed

Cause
Regulation error

E9 error code
displayed

Change in Load
Resistance.

Solution
Turn power supply off, then on to
If problem persists, contact Bio-Rad
Technical Resources
Check and correct any potential
resistance problem then,
press run/pause key to resume run
or,
press any key, other than the
run/pause
key, to clear the error code.

The PowerPac

E10 error code

displayed

E12 error code

displayed
E13 error code
displayed
E14 error code
displayed
E15 error code
displayed
E16 error code
displayed
E17 error code
displayed
E98 error code
displayed
E99 error code
displayed

Basic detects drastic

changes in resistance
which may indicate
failure of the cells power
leads or a loose output
connection.
Note: Certain applications
exhibit fluctuations in
resistance that can
trigger the change in
resistance error code.
If this is the case, the
change in resistance
feature can be deactivated
to allow uninterrupted
completion of a run.
(see Section 3, Step 8)
Caution: Deactivating this
safety feature increases the
possibility that a failure of the
power leads or loose output
connection will not be
detected.
Unacceptable value(s)
Clear the code by pressing any key
entered
other than the run/pause key.
Then, enter values within range of
PowerPac Basic and press the
run/pause key
Internal Over Current
Possible power supply malfunction.
Internal Short Circuit

Internal Short Circuit

Check for and correct problems such

as dirty contacts, frayed wires,
excessive buffer concentration. Then
press any key other than the run/pause
key to clear the code.

Hardware failure

Contact Bio-Rad Technical Resources

Internal Over Voltage

Hardware failure
Internal system error
Internal system error

4.3 Replacing a Fuse

If there is no display, lights, or fan, and the PowerPac Basic is plugged into a working AC
power outlet with the power switch in the on position, the fuse may need to be replaced.
1. Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
2. Insert a flat blade screwdriver into the notches of the power entry module's fuse
holder to release it. See Figure 5.
3. Remove the fuse from the fuse holder. Replace with 2.5A, 250V, 5 X 20 mm fuses
(Bio-Rad part number 900-7283).
4. Re-insert the fuse holder into its position. Press the fuse holder gently until it snaps into
place.
The unit is now ready for use.

FUSE DRAWER

NOTCHES

Fig. 5. Rear View Showing Fuse Drawer with Notches.

Note: Repeated blowing of the fuse indicates a hardware failure and Bio-Rad should be
contacted for repair.
4.4 Firmware Version Number
To display the PowerPac Basics firmware version number while the power supply is off,
hold down the constant parameter key and concurrently turn the power switch to the on
position. All of the LEDs and segments in the 3 digit LED display will light. Release the
constant parameter key and the firmware version number will then appear for a few
seconds. The power supply is now ready for operation.

Appendix A
Specifications and Ordering Information
Input Power
nominal
actual
Fuses
Input Power Cord
Output (Programmable)
Voltage
Voltage Accuracy
Current
Current Accuracy
Power (maximum)
Terminals
Timer Control
Ripple
Line Regulation
Load Regulation
Drift
Noise
Readout Stability
Volts
Current
Safety Features
No load detection
Sudden load change detection
Overload/short circuit protection
Input line protection
Auto power up after power failure
Safety Compliance
EMI

Display Functions
Function Modes

Environmental
Operating Temperature
Humidity
Dimensions
Unit is stackable
Weight

100120/220240 VAC, 50 or 60 Hz
90132 or 198264 VAC, 50 or 60 Hz
2.5 A, 250 VAC, 5mm x 20mm, Type T
3-wire; grounded
10 V to 300 V, fully adjustable in 1 V steps
2% of reading or 3 volts, whichever is more
4 mA to 400 mA, fully adjustable in 1 mA steps
2% of reading or 3 mA, whichever is more
75 W
4-pair recessed banana jacks, floating in parallel
001 to 999 minutes, fully adjustable
< 1% @ 300 V and 70 W
< 1% @ 300 V and 70 W, 90132 or
198264VAC
<1% @ 300 V for a 50% change in output load
< 1% @ after 15 min warmup at 300 V and 70 W
55 dBA at 1 meter
1 V
1 mA
Indicated by error message on display
Indicated by error message on display
Automatic power limit
Fuse on both hot and neutral
User-selectable, setup values maintained
EN-61010
Conforms to CE standards for Emissions and
Immunity class A, tested only at 230V. See
Declaration of Conformity for details. TUV EMC
certification
3-digit LED displays voltage, current, or time
Constant voltage, constant current, timer, pause
User-selectable automatic power-up after power
failure
040C
095%, in the absence of condensation
25 cm (L) x 21 cm (W) x 8.5 cm (H)
1.1 kg

10

Appendix B
Warranty and Ordering Information
Warranty
The PowerPac Basic power supply is covered by a standard Bio-Rad Laboratories
warranty. Contact your local Bio-Rad representative for details of the warranty. If any
defects should occur during this warranty period, Bio-Rad Laboratories will replace the
defective parts without charge. However, the following defects are specifically excluded:
1. Defects caused by improper operation.
2. Repair or modification done by anyone other than Bio-Rad Laboratories or their
authorized agent.
3. Use with cables or connectors not specified by Bio-Rad Laboratories for this power
supply.
4. Deliberate or accidental misuse.
5. Damage caused by disaster.
For inquiry or request for repair service, contact your local Bio-Rad office.

Warranty Information
Model: _____________________________________________________________________
Serial Number: ______________________________________________________________
Date of Delivery: _____________________________________________________________
Warranty Period: _____________________________________________________________

Ordering Information
Catalog
Number

Description

164-5050

PowerPac Basic power supply, 100120/220240V

165-5061

PowerPac Adaptor, qty 1

165-5066

PowerPac Adaptor, qty 2

900-7283

Replacement Fuse, 2.5 A, 250 V, 5 x 20 mm, 1 ea

11

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Laboratories, Inc.
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Life Science
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4006213 Rev F

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Sig 1212