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- Instruction manual
1000 watt pep linear amplifier
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- Contents
- Table of Contents
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Table of Contents
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Unpacking Instructions
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Table of Contents
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Features
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Introduction
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Safety Interlock
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Circuit Descriptions
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Alc
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Dynamic Bias
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Power Supply
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Filament Supply
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Plate (HV) Supply
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Meters
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Current Meter (Plate and Grid)
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Multimeter
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Multimeter Functions
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Wattmeter Circuit
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Peak Envelope Power Vs. Average Power
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Tube Life
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Export Modifications
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Technical Assistance
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Installation Guidelines and Suggestions
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Location of the Amplifier
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Ventilation
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Power Connections
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Grounding
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Transformer Connections
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Interconnections
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Operating Instructions and Guidelines
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Front Panel Controls
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MULTIMETER" Switch
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OFF-ON" Switch
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STBY-OPR" Switch
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PLATE" Control
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LOAD" Control
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ALC Metering, Controls, and Adjustments
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ALC Metering Functions
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ALC Controls
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ALC Adjustments
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Rear-Panel "ALC LIMIT" Control
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ALC Limit Adjustment (Rear Panel)
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Driving Power
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Tuning
- Tuning Procedure
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Additional SSB Notes
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AM (Amplitude Modulation) Operation
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FM (Frequency Modulation), RTTY, and Digital Operation
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Audio Distortion
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QSK Operation
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Periodic Maintenance
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Parts List
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Power Supply / SWR Board (50-0080-1)
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Tuned Input Board (50-0080-2)
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AL-80B Tuned Input Chart
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Meter Board (50-0080-3)
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Timer / Overload Board (50-0080-5)
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Al-80B Main Chassis Parts List
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Frequency Coverage
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Amplifier Tuning Log
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Notes
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- 1 Al-80B Technical Specifications
- 2 Tuning Procedure
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AL-80B Instruction Manual
WARNING!!!
NEVER APPLY POWER TO THIS AMPLIFIER WITH THE COVER REMOVED!
CONTACT WITH THE VOLTAGES INSIDE THIS AMPLIFIER CAN BE FATAL!
PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE EQUIPMENT!
Improper or abusive operation of this amplifier can damage the tubes or other components in
this amplifier. Damage caused by improper or abusive operation is not covered under the
warranty policy.
i
Table ofContents
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Summary of Contents for AMERITRON AL-80B
- Page 1 AL-80B Instruction Manual WARNING!!! NEVER APPLY POWER TO THIS AMPLIFIER WITH THE COVER REMOVED! CONTACT WITH THE VOLTAGES INSIDE THIS AMPLIFIER CAN BE FATAL! PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE EQUIPMENT! Improper or abusive operation of this amplifier can damage the tubes or other components in this amplifier.
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Page 2: Unpacking Instructions
Save the screws to re-secure the cover. Carefully lift the rear of the cover while sliding the cover back. The AL-80B is shipped with the fuses and fuse caps packed inside the amplifier. Additional screws will be included in the fuse pack if they are required. -
Page 3: Table Of Contents
AL-80B Instruction Manual Ameritron AL-80B 1000 watt PEP Linear Amplifier Instruction Manual Features ............................1 AL-80B Technical Specifications ....................2 Introduction ..........................3 Safety Interlock ....................... 3 Circuit Descriptions........................4 ALC ..........................4 Dynamic Bias ........................4 Power Supply ..........................5 Filament Supply ...................... - Page 4 Tuned Input Board (50-0080-2) ..................26 AL-80B Tuned Input Chart ..................... 26 Meter Board (50-0080-3) ....................26 Timer / Overload Board (50-0080-5) ................27 Al-80B Main Chassis Parts List ..................28 Frequency Coverage........................29 Amplifier Tuning Log ......................... 29 Notes..........................30...
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Page 5: Features
A multi-voltage heavy-duty transformer with a unique "buck-boost" winding allows adjustment of the primary voltage to 14 different voltages centered on 115 and 230 Vac. This versatile Ameritron feature allows the user to select the optimum primary voltage for maximum performance and life. -
Page 6: Al-80B Technical Specifications
AL-80B Instruction Manual AL-80B Technical Specifications Input: Circuit type: Pi-network, slug tuned coils Maximum VSWR at resonance: 1.3:1 or less Minimum 2:1 VSWR bandwidth: 20% of center frequency Maximum drive power permissible: 100 watts PEP Typical drive for full power output:... -
Page 7: Introduction
AL-80B Instruction Manual Introduction The Ameritron AL-80B is an 800 watt CW, 1000 watt PEP output linear amplifier that operates on all Amateur bands from 160 through 15 meters. The AL-80BX and AL-80BY are export models that operate from 160 through 10 meters. Export modification instructions are available with proof of a valid amateur radio license. -
Page 8: Circuit Descriptions
The AL-80B contains an exclusive bias circuit that reduces the idling (quiescent) current very close to the tube's cut-off region. The power amplifier tube in the AL-80B has a full resting period of very low dissipation between dots and dashes on CW and between words on SSB. The lower idling current reduces component temperature on both CW and SSB. -
Page 9: Power Supply
AL-80B Instruction Manual Power Supply Filament Supply The filament circuit of this amplifier satisfies all requirements of the tube manufacturer related to tube performance and life. The filament voltage and inrush current are controlled by the power transformer's internal resistance and impedance, filament choke resistance, filament wiring resistance, and the step-start circuit. -
Page 10: Multimeter
AL-80B Instruction Manual Multimeter The multimeter is the meter on the right. It continuously reads the forward peak envelope power on its left-hand scale (FWD). This scale is calibrated in 100 watt steps up to 2 kW. The right-hand scale of this meter provides four metering functions that are selected by the "MULTIMETER"... -
Page 11: Wattmeter Circuit
AL-80B Instruction Manual Wattmeter Circuit The AL-80B wattmeter circuit uses an accurate directional coupler followed by a true peak detector circuit. This circuit will accurately determine the true peak envelope power (PEP) of normal voice waveforms. If the load SWR is high, the true power reading will be obtained by subtracting the reflected power from the forward power. -
Page 12: Tube Life
These conditions can be avoided by following the tuning procedures in this manual. In the AL-80B, a grid current of 250 mA (at 100 watts of drive) produces the rated grid dissipation of 20 watts. For maximum tube life, the grid current and drive power should always be kept below these values. -
Page 13: Export Modifications
If this problem occurs frequently, the tube should be tested or replaced. The use of low quality tubes, tubes that have been stored for extended periods, or abused tubes increase likelihood of a "gas arc". Ameritron recommends using only current code date Eimac 3-500Z tubes. -
Page 14: Installation Guidelines And Suggestions
Power Connections The AL-80B is supplied with a NEMA 5-15P plug for 120 Vac operation. Full duty cycle operation with ac supply voltages below 100 volts is not recommended. The "Transformer Connections" section on page 12 shows the correct wiring for various supply voltages. -
Page 15: Grounding
AL-80B Instruction Manual If the power mains have excessive resistance, the high voltage may sag to less than 2700 volts under load. Voltage sag will not hurt the amplifier if the fully loaded high voltage remains above 2500 volts. CAUTION: Never allow the high voltage to exceed 3200 volts under any condition. -
Page 16: Transformer Connections
The high voltage secondary of the AL-80B has three leads. The normal wiring is indicated on the circuit board silk-screen by the initials R/Y (RED/YELLOW) and R/G (RED/GREEN). For low power operation the R/Y and R/G wire can be reversed. -
Page 17: Interconnections
AL-80B Instruction Manual Interconnections Connect the exciter's RF output to the "RF IN" connector on the rear of the AL-80B with 50 ohm coax. Use any good quality 50 ohm cable long enough to connect the amplifier to the exciter. This amplifier connection uses a standard SO-239 female that mates with a PL-259 male connector on the cable. -
Page 18: Stby-Opr" Switch
ALC Metering, Controls, and Adjustments ALC Metering Functions The "MULTIMETER" switch in the AL-80B has two positions that indicate the functioning of the ALC circuit. These positions are as follows: In this position the multimeter measures the output voltage of the ALC detector. The full scale reading of the ALC detector is 35 volts. -
Page 19: Alc Controls
AL-80B Instruction Manual ALC SET In this position the multimeter measures the approximate grid current that will produce ALC activity. One zero must be added to the reading on the ALC/ HV scale for this function. For example: If the meter reads 15, add one zero (150). In this example ALC action will begin at approximately 150 mA of grid current. -
Page 20: Rear-Panel "Alc Limit" Control
AL-80B Instruction Manual During CW operation, the "ALC SET" control voltage should be adjusted just high enough (clockwise) to allow the desired output power to be reached. The "ALC SET" control should never be adjusted to the point where the grid current can exceed 200 mA under any tuning or drive adjustment condition. -
Page 21: Alc Limit Adjustment (Rear Panel)
A second method of determining linear operation is to monitor the peak RF output power carefully on the AL-80B's internal meter. Determine the maximum obtainable RF output power and reduce the exciters power until there is a noticeable margin from the maximum output power. This will insure some reserve power is available for random voice peaks. -
Page 22: Tuning
AL-80B Instruction Manual Tube and Component Life These guidelines will help prolong tube and component life, and minimize splatter. On SSB or other linear modes, virtually any amount of power will cause splatter if the loading is too light ("LOAD" control too far counter-clockwise). Always tune for maximum output with maximum drive power. - Page 23 (clockwise) to prevent excessive voltage and arcing in the tank circuit or excessive grid current. Repeated tripping of the grid overload circuit or intermittent arcing probably indicates the "LOAD" control is adjusted too low. Set the AL-80B front panel switches as follows: POWER OPR-STBY...
- Page 24 AL-80B Instruction Manual With the exciter's drive level still on zero, observe the 750 mA Ip scale on the left hand meter. It should indicate zero (0) amperes. Place the "STBY-OPR" switch in the "OPR" position. Place the exciter in the transmit mode with no RF output.
- Page 25 AL-80B Instruction Manual 11a. Increase the "ALC SET" voltage (if the ALC is connected) until 180 mA (18 volts) is indicated. Apply full drive (not to exceed 100 watts) and adjust the "LOAD" and "PLATE" controls for maximum RF output power. The grid current should not be allowed to go above 200 mA at this stage.
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Page 26: Additional Ssb Notes
Braiding or woven wire has a very high RF resistance and should be avoided. See the "Grounding" section on page 11 of this manual. More detailed suggestions on grounding are available by requesting Ameritron's Tech Bulletin on RF Feedback. -
Page 27: Qsk Operation
QSK-5 unit. The QSK-5 operates directly from 120 Vac power lines. Ameritron also offers an internal QSK board as a space-saver for the AL-80B. This internal board is slightly less expensive. However, it provides less flexibility and serviceability than the external QSK-5 unit. - Page 28 NEVER make any unauthorized component or circuit modifications to this product. The only acceptable source for modifications is Ameritron or a source approved by Ameritron. Unauthorized modifications almost certainly will increase the risk of equipment failure or personal injury.
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Page 29: Parts List
AL-80B Instruction Manual Parts List Power Supply / SWR Board (50-0080-1) Designator Description Ameritron PN D101,102,114,115 1N34A 300-0346 D103 1N757A Zener 9.1V 305-0757 D116-120 1N4001 300-0266 D104-113 1N5408 300-0145 C101 27 pF 500 V 208-5404 C102,105 .001 uF 1 kV... -
Page 30: Tuned Input Board (50-0080-2)
Ameritron PN C201 (tube side) See input chart C202 (transmitter side) See input chart L201 See input chart S201 Input switch AL-80B Tuned Input Chart BAND C201 (pF) tube L201 C 201 (pF) transmitter side 2700 (208-5689) 28.75T (405-1287) 2000... -
Page 31: Timer / Overload Board (50-0080-5)
AL-80B Instruction Manual Timer / Overload Board (50-0080-5) Designator Description Ameritron PN C501-506 .01 uF 50 V disc 200-0416 C507,508 .47 uF tantalum 203-0530 C509 100 uF 25 V 203-0564 D501, 502 1N4001 300-0266 D503 5.6 V zener 301-710 IC501... -
Page 32: Al-80B Main Chassis Parts List
AL-80B Instruction Manual Al-80B Main Chassis Parts List Designation Description Ameritron PN Blower 410-3138 C1-3 .001 uF 7.5 kV 200-7224 500 pF Doorknob 7.5 kV 210-0470 C5, 6 170 pF Doorknob 7.5 kV 209-0559 Air Variable Plate 204-2112 Air Variable Load... -
Page 33: Frequency Coverage
AL-80B Instruction Manual Frequency Coverage AL-80B AL-80BX 160 meters 1.8-2.0 MHz 160 meters 1.8-2.0 MHz 80 meters 3.3-4.4 MHz 80 meters 3.3-4.4 MHz 40 meters 6.3-8.3 MHz 40 meters 6.3-8.3 MHz 20 meters 10.1-15.5 MHz 20 meters 10.1-15.5 MHz 15 meters 16.5-21.5 MHz*... -
Page 34: Notes
AL-80B Instruction Manual Notes:...
