- Calculate the amperage requirements of a typical home studio setup (and at least one analog synthesizer) based on each unit’s power consumption (in watts) and explain how to keep from tripping a breaker with that gear.
The Apple M4 Pro chip, depending on the specific configuration (12-core or 14-core CPU), can draw between 70W and 96W
Apple Mac Computer- 40-120 watts when idle and up to 370 watts at maximum CPU use
AC-powered audio interfaces typically use power supplies that can deliver 12 to 20 watts, although some larger interfaces may require more
Grandmother Analog Synthesizer- around 400 watts
In order to not trip a breaker with all of the gear, we need to understand how much an outlet can handle before plugging things in. We have to make sure that we are plugging everything into different circuits to ensure that the power needed doesn’t overload the circuit.
- Discuss how to locate and operate the circuit breaker panel for repairs, upgrades, and when a breaker is tripped.
The circuit breaker is typically in a space that isn’t foot traffic heavy, like a garage or a closet. When a breaker is tripped, you have to turn the switch off and then back on to reset.