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Refenrence Power Line Conditioner Gigawatt PC-4

The PC-4 is the top model of the Gigawatt power conditioners line. This reference device is dedicated to powering Hi-end audio and video systems. PC-4 is the quintessence of many years of experience, research and work on an uncompromised power conditioner. This powerfull device came to life using newest technologies and specialized components. The conditioner has a modular structure made from multistage, high capacity passive filters, galvanic separation units and voltage symmetrization units.

The ultistage anti-noise filter was constructed based on highest quality elements, like TMOV varistors, nanocristall core chokes and high class anti-noise capacitors. The whole circuit is mounted on a massive double-sided PCB with wide, silver covered traces. The function of the filter is supported by a buffer circuit, with a new generation compensation cell, used to increase the current output of the conditioner with non-linear loads (like power amplifiers) and to decrease the difference between power on input and output.

The current from the filters is transferred to the output sockets by means of distribution bars, twisted connections and large cross-section, silver plated, copper wires insulated with FEP Teflon. Galvanic separation is achieved by using two powerful, low-noise, toroidal transformers, with triple electrostatic shield and a shield lowering the dispersion field. The conditioner has also a built in polarity detection circuit. It can also detect wrongly connected ground and has a precise volt meter with a LED display, measuring True RMS voltage. The volt meter is resistant to noise and measurement errors caused by higher harmonics, as well as does not generate any noise that could cause impairment of the conditioners filtering function. On-request the digital volt meter is available in other colours of LED display: green and blue.

The internal elements of the PC-4 conditioner allow for a continuous load of 25A (and 70A peak), if the power line allows. This huge reserve is not necessary for lossless transfer of energy from the power line to the load, but to have a current reserve for impulse loads. A current reserve is a fundamental thing when supplying current to power amplifiers, capable of peak loads many times higher than their nominal values.

A professional PowerCon 32 Amp socket, with silver plated pins, capable of sustained load of 32A, was used as the main power-in connector. Continuous load capability of this conditioner at 25A is almost triple of what a typical unit, utilizing an IEC socket, is able to provide. In case of Poland, with the nominal voltage of 230V, an IEC socket has a maximum current capability of 10-16A (depending on the used norm), but some devices can have a peak load reaching 70A.

The conditioner does not have any traditional safety elements like fuses, eliminating all negative characteristics such simple constructions introduce. Those widely used elements have, besides low price and obvious protective capabilities, have one weak point, which disqualifies them from usage in audio systems – they limit full power supplied to the protected circuit. This flaw is a consequence of the small cross-section of those elements.

For protection of the internal circuits from overload we used a hydraulic electromagnetic switch from the company Carling. This is a switch from the most advanced line of products the company provides, while other companies use similar switches from budget lines of this provider, or simple ‘home grade’ current limiting switches, with uncertain parameters and questionable reliability. This costly element is manufactured in the USA on special order and according to Gigawatt specifications. It has also the function of the conditioners main power switch and current flow control element. This unit allows supplying full declared current to the powered devices, and in addition allows for high continuous current flow (25A), and even much more in peak.

The PC-4 conditioner, like most Gigawatt products, is equipped in a power distribution system composed of distribution bars, high cross-section wiring made from silver plated copper wires in Teflon insulation, clamped or screw-tightened connections and high quality Schuko type output sockets. The massive distribution bars are made from slabs of silver coated copper, with a cross-section of 30mm². Separate bars leading to each socket allow for a stable and even power distribution regardless of the load on each socket. The bars are directly connected to the output sockets. The Schucko sockets feature cryogenically treated and de-magnetized connectors.

The conditioner has 12 outputs in total: 4 separated outputs with 1500W for sound sources and digital units, 4 separated outputs 1500W for analog devices and 4 high current, 3680W outputs. A high quality Gigawatt cable, LC-2 HC mkII with a PowerCon 32 Amp plug is a standard accessory.

The PC-4 conditioner is available in 2 colors of the anodized front panel, made from brushed aviation-grade aluminum – silver or black.

All Gigawatt products are subject to an insurance policy, that covers damage to the connected equipment up to 250 000 EUR.