Stories of a novice.
3 months ago I decided to start in the world of modular, after several years with VCV.
First of all, I watched videos, read forums, etc.
At first, ignoring opinions from some forums, I decided to build myself a 3U 104HP case.
I decided on the "cheap" option for the power supply. The famous Meanwell RT-65B with 2 buses.
At the last moment, I decided to listen to what I read and built a 6U 104HP case.
What I want to tell you is what just happened to me with the power supply. Run works fine. No problems so far, but I've run out of power on the -12v rail (it only has 500mA). Well, I had to decide to put another meanwell, one for each bus. I had to disassemble all the modules, the cover of the box (luckily I made a removable cover) and redo the wiring. A great mess!!!!.
I hope this helps other newbies like me to keep in mind that:
-3U 104HP is NEVER enough, not even at first.
-Better an external source, type 4ms or Modulaire maritime for example
https://www.modulargrid.net/e/4ms-company-row-power-40
https://www.modulargrid.net/e/modulaire-maritime-cargo
Maybe it costs a little more than what I have spent but it is worth it. (€80 option 2 x meanwell plus accessories vs €120-150 external option, with power brick), without taking into account the boring work that it has cost me.
As @JimHowell1970 rightly says, Utility modules are the dull polish that makes the shiny modules actually shine. And the utility modules draw negative current, and in the end the source becomes obsolete.
Greetings to all and sorry if I have bored you.