We typically sell 1 or 2 NEAX 2400's per year, so when it comes to finding a power system, we used to start from scratch each time. In late 1996, we installed a small 2400 and bought a new Brand X rectifier and a low voltage disconnect device. The rectifier was a new switch mode type (solid state) rectifier that used less power, ran cooler etc. Unfortunately, one of the circuit boards had a resistor that wasn't up to specs, so it took up smoking after a week. The factory replacement did the same (Grrr). Needless to say, we won't be using those again. The real problem ocurred when we were swapping out parts in the rectifier. Our tech accidentally shorted out two battery terminals. Sparks flew, as well as hot lead. Two small pieces became permanently embedded in his plastic lenses of his glasses! Lesson 1 - require your techs to wear safety glasses when working on batteries.
When we sold our next 2400, I didn't want to go through that again. After talking to Sound, Inc., (large NEC dealer in Chicago area) we contacted Conrardy Company and then Rick Wendorf from Condisco. They work with LaMarche and other rectifiers, low voltage disconnect etc. The real appeal to their way of doing this was a sealed box with circuit breakers so that we not longer had exposed hot bus bars etc. A separate breaker allows us to shut off power to just the batteries, for example. When it comes time to replace the batteries, we can do it with the safely with the system up and running! We found snap on battery terminal covers in the marine department at Sears. Condisco typically makes up the system, pre-wires it and mounts on a rack, then ships it to the site and they do the hookup. We didn't have money in the budget for them to come and hook it up, so we did our own wiring getting DC welding cables from a local shop. They have agreed to provide labeled wiring so it should be a plug and play situation for most small 2400's. For example, a non-redundant 15 amp rectifier, rack, breakers panel, low voltage disconnect, and 2 hour batteries runs dealer cost about $3800, plus freight. First time I was ever proud for our power system install. Condisco can be reached at 847-292-3200.