Extending the PSU cables.  

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Hi Benjamin,

I would provide new wires rather than extend the existing wires.

I am an advocate for using quality flexible wires and like to use silicone insulated flexible wires

below is a table of the current carrying capability for various gauges.

as the power supply is rated at 24 volts 10 amps,

16 AWG should be adequate for the power cables. because :
A, the ratings displayed, have safety allowances built in, and
B, the 16AWG cable is rated over twice the expected power requirement

don't forget to use the correct terminals for the ends!

regards Joan

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Thank you very much for your thorough reply. 😀

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Thank you Benjamin.
I usually get this wire off Ebay. It is used for radio controll models. May I suggest that you get perhaps an extra metre of each colour. So that wnen the heat bed cable breaks. You will have stock on hand.
Same cable size.
Regards Joan

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Thank you Benjamin.
I usually get this wire off Ebay. It is used for radio controll models. May I suggest that you get perhaps an extra metre of each colour. So that wnen the heat bed cable breaks. You will have stock on hand.
Same cable size.
Regards Joan

Is it common for the heat bed cable to break?

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Hi David,

it's happened to me twice, with original prusa cables, so far this has not happened with silicone cables.

there have been a number of similar issues on the forum...

I notice the leads on my mk2.5 heatbed now fasten with nuts and bolts, is this to make them easier to replace?

regards Joan

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Thanks! I ordered this off amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BKVGZ3N/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
75 feet for $10. Seems reasonable, I guess.

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

That looks good, David,

regards Joan

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Hi guys, I will be is the same boat soon. What connectors do I need and is it easy? Thanks.

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

I have been a huge fan of these since I had my hot end heater wires fail for the 2ed time on my big Delta printer over 4 years ago

https://smile.amazon.com/Hilitchi-Silicone-Temperature-Resistant-Flexible/dp/B01CMHY892/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1543075940&sr=8-4&keywords=silicone+insulated+flexible+wire

in flex applications do not use solder as it will create a stress riser... properly sized crimp on connectors are the things to use... if for some reason you must use a soldered type make sure it ends (does not wick out along the wire) well inside the strain relief of the connector.

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

would this one work as well? https://www.amazon.co.uk/BNTECHGO-Silicone-Flexible-Strands-Stranded/dp/B01CL08E04/ref=sr_1_9?s=diy&ie=UTF8&qid=1543917412&sr=1-9

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

would this one work as well? https://www.amazon.co.uk/BNTECHGO-Silicone-Flexible-Strands-Stranded/dp/B01CL08E04/ref=sr_1_9?s=diy&ie=UTF8&qid=1543917412&sr=1-9

sure just match the AWG size to that of the wire you are replacing. the high flex silicone stuff is sold in all sizes fro 8 AWG to 24 AWG at easy access places like Amazon and even smaller and larger sizes at specialty vendors... I have seen fine wire cable in 000AWG size in use in diesel emergency generators at a hospital for example

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Got my wire. What are the connectors I will need? And is it easy to take the old ones out the PSU?

Thanks Chris.

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Hi there,

i also want to change the cables out of the PSU (i3 MK3).

What do think, will there be voltage drop with a length of about 2 1/2 meters (100 inches)?

I would use wires with 3 mm diameter.

Thanks in advance!

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Not sure if I would use a connector to extend the cable.

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Let me just cut into this conversation with a related question: I am also thinking about moving the PSU out of the Lack enclosure, but I don't feel comfortable about leaving it connected directly with the Einsy. I would like to put a 6 pin connector between the two, that would allow me to easily plug in and out the PSU. Is there a suggested connector that is already being used throughout the community, that is friendly to the existing "Y" clips on the PSU wires?

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Not sure if I would use a connector to extend the cable.

It is 5A per output, and that is not a problem if you are using a proper connector. My question before was about finding a proper one, that would let me to keep the Y-clips at the end of the PSU wires.

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Do you mean something like this: http://www.playtool.com/pages/psuconnectors/connectors.html#pciexpress8

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

Do you mean something like this: http://www.playtool.com/pages/psuconnectors/connectors.html#pciexpress8

Something like that, but I am looking for the best way to keep the Y-connectors on the PSU.

Re: Extending the PSU cables.

My easy solution was to open the PS plastic flat cover, melt a slot next to the power switch, and re-route the existing wires to exit next to the power switch. That gained a few inches of wire without need for splicing or changing out the wire harness. Plenty of slack now to reach the new PS mounting position.

Be mindful of the plastic tabs and leave enough some separation from the switch.