Hi fi amp overheating

[Jan56]

I have just installed a new media system consisting of a Yamaha AV amp, Sky HD and a DVD player in a 80 * 70 * 60cm cupboard. I have cut two ventilation holes covered by louvres in the side of the cupboard (which I hope to keep enclosed by doors). The trouble is heat builds up very fast and the video signal from the amp cuts out until I open the doors to let everything cool down a bit. Can anyone suggest a method by which I can use a (very quiet) fan to improve airflow in the cupboard? All the PC fans available seems to be 12V DC which will be a challenge to provide without a transformer! Any suggestions welcomed. Thanks

[rojash]

240 volt AC fans from here:

http://www.qwikflow.com/ac_cooling_fans_info.h tml

But I think you would be better off reconsidering your natural ventilation system.

Just as an example, if your louvres are at the side of the cupboard, and you amp's heatsinks are at the back, close to the cupboard wall, then obviously you are going to collect a lot of hot, unmoving air.

Repositioning the louvres and/or the amp might solve the problem, and of course, you would need the louvres angled upwards, rather than downwards or sideways to maximise cooling by convection alone.