Ericsson Elex Top May 2026

Finding academic literature specifically titled "Ericsson Elex Top" can be difficult because "Elex" is typically Ericsson’s internal abbreviation for their Electronics or Electrical Engineering departments (most notably located in Kista, Sweden), rather than a specific commercial product name.

Most likely, you are looking for the technical papers behind the Ericsson "Top" series of transmission products (such as the MINI-LINK TN or MARTE microwave radios), which were developed by the Elex division.

Here are two highly relevant papers regarding the technology developed by the Ericsson Elex (Electronics) department that fits the "Top" descriptor (Top-of-Stack outdoor units):

Why Was It Important?

The Competitive Landscape

When the Elex Top launched, its main rivals included: ericsson elex top

  • ITT Pentomat 1000 – A similar reed-relay SPC exchange.
  • Siemens EWS (Electronic Switching System) – Notably the EWS 1, also hybrid.
  • Western Electric 1ESS (USA) – A giant in fully electronic SPC, but using similar reed relays.

The Elex Top stood out for its compact modular design (Eurocard-style racks) and lower power consumption compared to many U.S. and Japanese designs of the era.

2. True AGM Construction

Unlike gel batteries, AGM batteries like the ELEX TOP can handle higher charge currents, recovering faster from a discharge event. They are also 100% spill-proof, allowing horizontal or vertical mounting.

2. Thermal Sensitivity

Like all VRLA batteries, for every 10°C increase above 25°C, the service life is halved. Many ELEX TOP batteries installed in outdoor cabinets without air conditioning are now at end-of-life. ITT Pentomat 1000 – A similar reed-relay SPC exchange

What Exactly is the Ericsson Elex Top?

The Ericsson Elex Top refers to a specific series of enclosed switching power supplies designed primarily for industrial and telecommunication applications. The term "Elex" is shorthand for "Electronics" or a specific product line within Ericsson’s OEM portfolio, while "Top" generally indicates the "Top" connector series or the physical top-loading terminal configuration.

These units are typically single-output, high-efficiency AC/DC converters. They bridge the gap between a simple wall adapter and a lab-grade linear power supply. Unlike cheap consumer bricks, the Elex Top series features active power factor correction (PFC), low ripple noise, and high mean time between failures (MTBF).

Key identifiers of an authentic Ericsson Elex Top unit: The Elex Top stood out for its compact

  • Form Factor: Enclosed metal chassis (typically 1U or half-rack height) with a ventilated cover.
  • Connector: Screw terminal blocks (the "Top" connector) allowing for high-current, secure wiring.
  • Labeling: Distinct blue-and-white Ericsson branding with the "Elex" logo.

3. CNC and LED Lighting

For large LED grow lights or CNC spindle controllers, the constant voltage and current protection of the Elex Top prevent brown-outs and supply crashes that ruin prints or cuts.

1. Ham Radio & Amateur Radio Power Supply

The 13.8V required for most transceivers is tricky, but the 12V Elex Top can be tweaked up to 13.6V-13.8V using the internal trim pot. With 25A to 50A capability, it can easily drive a 100W HF transceiver. The low noise floor means you won't hear the supply on your receiver.