Temperature/Cooling


Q: I have a stereo UcD amplifier and one module gets warmer than the other. Both function properly though.
A: Our modules are factory trimmed for best THD, not operating current. Operating current varies over a 20% range. The temperature difference is clearly noticeable but not a cause for worry.

Q: The blue heatsink on the module gets very warm and the output coil even gets warmer! I thought UcD Class D stayed cool at all times!
A: Class D is “cool” in terms of how much power gets dissipated. If one were to heat-sink a class D amplifier like an equivalent class AB amp, they would remain utterly stone cold. The idea of course is to make the amplifiers more compact by reducing the heatsink. An idling UcD amplifier draws up to 2% of rated power. That’s 8W for a UcD400 amplifier. Whether that translates into a small or large temperature rise depends on the size of the heatsink.

Q: Do I need a heatsink to cool my UcD amplifier?
A: Yes! Even 90% efficient UcD700 running at full power dissipates as much as 70Watts. Simplest solution would be an all aluminium case to which the amplifier is mounted best. When using a steel case a regular heatsink should be used. Make sure there is always some airflow through the case by means of venting holes.