RF Concepts Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual www.rfconcepts.com Product Release 1 Document Issue 1.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual RF Concepts Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Prepared for RF Concepts by MRH/JH/LJW. To reach technical support or obtain copies of this document, go to www.rfconcepts.com. Copyright © 2010 RF Concepts, LLC. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice. Page ii DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Contents Contents 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 1.1 Product Description 1-1 1.2 Product Capabilities 1-2 1.3 Safety Considerations 1-2 1.4 Related Products 1-3 1.5 Assistance 1-3 2. Amplifier Components and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 2.1 Cathode (Input-Match) Board 2-2 2.2 Center-Partition Board 2-3 2.3 Controls and Display 2-3 2.4 Display Board 2-4 2.5 Firmware 2-5 2.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Contents RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 5.4 Program the Amplifier Memory 5-10 5.5 Operate the Amplifier 5-12 6. Operating the Amplifier from a PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1 6.1 Set Up to Operate from a PC 6-1 6.2 Operate from the PC 6-2 Main window 6-3 Simulated front panel 6-4 Tools menu 6-4 Options menu 6-5 7. Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1 7.1 Clean the Chassis 7-1 7.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 List of Procedures List of Procedures Procedure 3-1, “Prepare your station,” page 3–1 Procedure 4-1, “Unpack the amplifier and transformer,” page 4–1 Procedure 4-2, “Install the transformer,” page 4–3 Procedure 4-3, “Connect the transformer,” page 4–4 Procedure 4-4, “Connect the cables,” page 4–7 Procedure 4-5, “Connect the transceiver keying line,” page 4–10 Procedure 5-1, “Start up the amplifier,” page 5–5 Procedure 5-2, “(Optional) Change the antenna settings,” page 5
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual List of Procedures Page vi RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
1 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 1 Introduction 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Product Description 1–1 Product Capabilities 1–2 Safety Considerations 1–2 Related Products 1–3 Assistance 1–3 Congratulations on your purchase of a professional-quality Alpha 9500 linear amplifier. 1.1 Product Description The Alpha 9500 (see Figure 1-1) is an self-contained autotune HF linear power amplifier.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Introduction 11 1 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Figure 1-1 Alpha 9500 1.2 Product Capabilities Product capabilities include: • Continuous RF output. The Alpha 9500 is capable of 1.5 kW continuous RF output on all commonly used modes and on any authorized amateur frequency from 1.8 to 29.7 MHz (other than the 60-meter band). • Compatibility with popular amateur transceivers and exciters. The Alpha 9500 requires approximately 50-65 W peak RF drive for 1.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Introduction 9500. The Alpha 9500 weighs approximately 69 pounds when the transformer is installed. • Although the Alpha 9500 meets international safety standards and FCC regulations, remember that the equipment works with high voltages that can be LETHAL! This operating manual holds information, cautions, and warnings that you must follow to ensure safe installation and operation.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Introduction 11 1 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 • Go to our website at www.rfconcepts.com and click Support. On this site you can get the following assistance: • FAQs • Legacy equipment information • Manuals • Repair information • Software downloads • Tech tips • Technical support • E-mail us at service@rfconcepts.com. • Fax us at 303-473-9660. • Phone us at 303-473-9232. Page 1–4 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
2 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 2 Amplifier Components and Specifications 2.1 Cathode (Input-Match) Board 2–2 2.2 Center-Partition Board 2–3 2.3 Controls and Display 2–3 2.4 Display Board 2–4 2.5 Firmware 2–5 2.6 Master-Control Board 2–5 2.7 Output-Tank Circuit 2–5 2.8 Power Connections 2–5 2.9 Power Supply 2–6 2.10 Tube and Tube Deck 2–8 2.11 Specifications 2–8 The Alpha 9500 uses a single 3CX1500 (8877) high-mu external-anode triode ceramic tube for amplification.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 22 Figure 2-1 Amplifier front and interior 2 Figure 2-2 Amplifier back 2.1 Cathode (Input-Match) Board The cathode board, housed in the tube deck, consists of a set of Pi filters controlled by a set of five relays that are enabled based on the band-switch setting. Page 2–2 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications The center-partition board contains the RF decoupling circuit on the B+ line as well as the crowbar safety circuit. When you remove the top cover of the Alpha 9500, the spring metal of this safety device shorts out the B+ line. 2.3 Controls and Display The Alpha 9500 controls enable you to adjust and monitor the amplifier as needed (see Figure 2-3).
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications 22 2 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Table 2-1 Amplifier Buttons (listed alphabetically) (Continued) Button Purpose FLT Sets the 7-segment display to show the last fault. Also loads new firmware. Fwd Sets the 7-segment display to show forward power in W. GAIN Displays the gain in decibels (dB). GRID CURRENT Displays the grid current in milliamperes (mA). Ig Sets the 7-segment display to show grid current in mA.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications The Alpha 9500 firmware controls and implements most amplifier features and functions. You can upgrade the master firmware via a serial or USB connection to a Microsoft Windows PC. For information, see Chapter 7, “Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier.” 2.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 22 to override autotaps election and use any primary tap; it may be useful to do so if your line voltage is unsteady or on the edge of a tap setting. For more information, contact RF Concepts technical support. 2 Figure 2-4 Primary connections 2.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications 22 Mains Board Figure 2-5 Mains board 2 Power-supply functions are split between the mains board and the HV board. The mains board deals mostly with the primary side of the transformer. The various taps for the transformer primary are routed through this board and so is the AC line input. Relays on the mains board connect the AC line to the appropriate taps on the transformer primary.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 22 HV Board The main high voltage for the amplifier is created on the HV board using a full-wave bridge rectifier and a bank of capacitors. This power supply has two 10-ohm resistors, one in the positive (B+) lead and one in the negative return to the tube cathode. This combination of resistors limits the surge current in the case of a B+ arc.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications 22 Table 2-2 Alpha 9500 linear amplifier specifications (Continued) Parameter Value Cooling Forced air Antenna outputs 4xSO-239 connectors Antenna selection 1 or 2 outputs per band/segment Input SO-239 connector Tuning/Band switching Automatic; manual override possible Power 100, 120, 200, 220, 240V AC, 50/60 Hz Power tap selection Automatic Interface Serial port with full r
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Amplifier Components and Specifications RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 22 2 Page 2–10 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
3 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 3 Preparing Your Station 3.1 Prepare Your Station 3–1 3.2 Limitations of Operation at 90–130 VAC 3–3 3.1 Prepare Your Station The Alpha 9500 is capable of dramatically improving the performance of your amateur station. It is important that you observe good engineering practices to achieve all the benefits of such a station in a safe and reliable manner. This chapter provides a few important operational considerations.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Preparing Your Station RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 33 Although the amplifier can run when connected to a 110 VAC outlet, you WILL NOT achieve full-legal-limit output in this case. Rather, you should not expect more than 1000 W output. For more information on the limitations of operation when connected to a 110 VAC outlet, see Section 3.2, “Limitations of Operation at 90–130 VAC,” page 3–3.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Preparing Your Station Install system feedlines following good engineering practice and according to manufacture recommendations. NOTE: The FCC requires users to check their installations for compliance with published values for allowable exposure to RF fields. This information is available in ARRL publications, FCC printed rules, and on the web.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Preparing Your Station RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 33 If your line voltage is below 110 V under load, do not expect to be able to get 1500 W output (see Table 3-1). Table 3-1 Amplifier behavior with nonstandard line voltages 3 Line voltage Expected behavior Low: 90–110 V Power outputs above 1000 W are not expected.
4 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 4 Setting Up the Amplifier 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 IMPORTANT ! Unpack the Amplifier and Transformer 4–1 Install the Transformer 4–3 Connect the Transformer 4–4 Connect the Cables 4–7 Set the Input Drive 4–10 Connect the Transceiver Keying Line 4–10 The Alpha 9500 is easy to set up, tune, operate, and maintain. However, failure to carry out each procedure exactly as described in this manual is likely to lead to amplifier damage, which is not covered under warranty.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 44 Figure 4-1 Cover screws 4 3c Rotate the amplifier onto its right hand side. 3d While looking at the bottom, locate and remove the screw (labeled BLOWER SCREW, Figure 4-2) that holds the blower in place during shipping. Figure 4-2 Blower screw NOTE: Before shipping, reinsert the screw to prevent damage to the blower. 3e With the cover off, remove the Delrin rod holding the tube in place.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier NOTE • The transformer is very heavy. When moving it, use due caution and handle only by the lifting handle. • The extra piece of wood shipped with the amplifier is the transformer shim, which was cut to specific dimensions to aid in this installation. • Do not over-tighten the screws that hold the transformer in place, as doing so may cause excessive vibrations or noise.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 44 Figure 4-4 Securing transformer 4 Step 4 Carefully rotate the amplifier back to its standard orientation. 4.3 Connect the Transformer Procedure 4-3 Connect the transformer Step 1 Connect the transformer to the chassis. Figure 4-5 Connecting transformer to chassis 1a Align the transformer’s Molex plug with the connector at the back of the amplifier.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier 44 Figure 4-6 Transformer’s 7-pin HV connector (top) and 2-pin mains connector (bottom) 4 2b Carefully route the transformer’s HV connector below all of the other bundled wires. NOTE: • Do not bump or bend components on either board. • Do not allow the HV wiring to touch any of the upper circuit board. Figure 4-7 Routing transformer’s HV connector DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 44 2c Align the transformer’s HV connector with the amplifier’s HV board connector, with all pins in their appropriate slots, then gently but firmly push the connectors together so that they are fully mated. Figure 4-8 Connecting transformer to the HV board 4 Step 3 Connect the transformer to the amplifier’s mains board (the upper of the two boards).
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier Figure 4-10 Connecting transformer to mains board 44 3c Align the connectors with both pins in their appropriate slots, then gently but firmly push the connectors together so that they are fully mated. 4 4.4 Connect the Cables Procedure 4-4 Connect the cables Step 1 Connect the power cord.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier 44 ! RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 CAUTION CAUTION! We strongly recommend that you operate the amplifier on 240 VAC. If you choose not to heed this recommendation, see a discussion of the limitations of doing so in Section 3.2, “Limitations of Operation at 90–130 VAC,” page 3–3.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier Place the amplifier in its operating position on a stable surface with sufficient space to the rear, sides, and top to allow good air flow and safe placement of cables. Step 5 Connect the amplifier RF INPUT to the transceiver RF OUTPUT. Use 50-ohm coaxial cable-RG-58C/U or equivalent. Step 6 Connect the amplifier RF OUTPUT to the antenna or appropriate matching device.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 44 4.5 Set the Input Drive You must set the transceiver output power properly. Virtually all damage to date has resulted directly from severe overdrive. The amplifier requires 50-W drive for full rated output. Damage caused by applying several-times-rated drive power to the amplifier is not covered under warranty.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier Transceiver Connection and keying information Yaesu RF — T/R — Connection with the RCA “TX GND” connector and/or DIN “Band Data” connector. For information, see the transceiver user manual. Older transceivers Step 2 For information on connecting to external amplifiers, see the transceiver user manual. (Optional) Enable the transceiver automatic antenna tuner.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Setting Up the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 44 4 Page 4–12 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
5 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 5 Operating the Amplifier 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 Principles of Operation 5–1 Start Up the Amplifier 5–5 Tune the Amplifier 5–7 Program the Amplifier Memory 5–10 Operate the Amplifier 5–12 5.1 Principles of Operation Once your Alpha 9500 linear amplifier is set up as described in the previous chapters, before first use you must tune it for peak RF output and lowest current for the selected antenna port over the range of band segment frequencies to be used.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 55 When powered on, the amplifier tunes to the last-used band segment using memory values. You can select a different band segment manually or apply low input power to select a new band segment.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier State On 2 (warmup) Description Tube is warming up and HV is present. To enter this state: Press the ON AMP button or send a command from the serial interface. In this state: The AC line is connected to the primary of the transformer and all amplifier voltages are present (including the high voltage for the tube plate). The stepper motors may turn briefly; they sound like a low growl.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 55 You can tune the amplifier in one of three tuning modes—Default, User 1, or User 2—and from any of these proceed to autotune mode.. Tuning modes Table 5-2 Tuning modes Mode Description Default By default, when the amplifier is first powered on or QSYed, it retunes using factorysupplied tuning values. These values are derived for a load with voltage standingwave ratio SWR = 1.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier Mode Description Auto In autotune mode, which you select when the amplifier is in User 1 or User 2 mode, the amplifier initially tunes from stored values and then automatically tweaks the tuning when power is applied. The amplifier tunes on the fly and hunts for an optimum tuning point as you change frequency.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 55 the amplifier, the amplifier autoselects a band and segment. You can pass up to 1500 W through the amplifier in bypass or the ON1 setting. • ON (AMP) button This duplicates the functions described above, and also applies high voltage to the tube. The amplifier begins its warmup countdown sequence and the 7-segment display shows the seconds remaining in the countdown. The STBY switch light blinks.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier IMPORTANT ! • Do not attempt to tune the amplifier until you read this entire section. Then follow instructions carefully. • During any tuning operation, it is important that you monitor grid current and gain. Even at SWR >2:0:1, where full output may not be achieved, you must still keep grid current and gain within limits.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 55 2b Press the desired antenna port twice. 2c While the antenna light is blinking, press the SAVE button. The new antenna port value is now spread across all bands and segments on User 1 or User 2. Step 3 To listen (and transmit) on two antennas simultaneously: 3a Press the ANTENNA SELECT button for the first desired antenna twice.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier Set the transceiver to the desired band/segment frequency. Step 4 Select User 1 or User 2 mode (so that you can save the settings). Step 5 Press the MEMORY/AUTO button to turn on autotune. Step 6 Key the transceiver by applying input power of 10–20 W. The amplifier selects the specified band and autotunes. Step 7 With the amplifier keyed, slowly advance the transceiver power.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier 55 5 Step 5 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Move the tune and load controls carefully, in small steps, until you maximize (that is, achieve full rated) output power. As you do so, monitor grid current and gain to keep them in the proper ranges. Step 6 Save the tuning values in one of the user memories. Step 7 Continue the process for all band segments of interest. Step 8 Proceed to “Program the Amplifier Memory,” page 5–10. 5.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier Procedure 5-5 Program the amplifier memory Step 1 Start up and tune the amplifier as described in “Start Up the Amplifier,” page 5–5 and “Tune the Amplifier,” page 5–7. Step 2 Tune the amplifier to the desired frequency in the User 1/User 2 position and the correct antenna port. Remember that you cannot store in the default position. Example: Tune to 14.025 MHz in User 1 segment 1.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 55 5.5 Operate the Amplifier 5 Procedure 5-6 Operate the amplifier Step 1 Start up and tune the amplifier and program memory as described in “Start Up the Amplifier,” page 5–5, “Tune the Amplifier,” page 5–7, and “Program the Amplifier Memory,” page 5–10. Step 2 Push the OPER button.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier 7b Ensure that the exhaust chimney is properly positioned over the tube. 7c Power up the amplifier again. NOTE • If the amplifier faults, it usually resets itself after 4 seconds. — To reset the amplifier manually if it fails to reset itself, push ON/AMP and then OPR. (You need not turn the amplifier off.) — To display the last fault, press the FLT button and view the 7segment display.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 55 5 Page 5–14 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
6 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 6 Operating the Amplifier from a PC 6.1 Set Up to Operate from a PC 6–1 6.2 Operate from the PC 6–2 The Alpha Remote (AR) AR9500 PC application allows you to access all functions and features of the Alpha 9500 from your PC.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier from a PC RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 66 Step 1 Locate the amplifier’s USB driver (filename CDM-setup.exe) from the RF Concepts website or the CD supplied with the amplifier. Step 2 Determine which PC COM port is assigned to the Alpha 9500. The amplifier is normally assigned to COM port 4 or 5. Confirm this by checking the computer properties and going to the PC’s Device Manager to locate the COM ports.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier from a PC 66 Main window 6 From the main window you can: • View a list of available COM ports from the drop-down menu labeled COM Port. Scroll through the list until the port connected to your amplifier is highlighted. • View the text editor box at the bottom of the window, which shows messages about the data being received from the amplifier. • View the drop-down windows at the top.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier from a PC RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 66 Simulated front panel 6 From the simulated front panel you can click any button just as you would press the button from the amplifier itself. Tools menu From the Tools menu you can obtain various types of information. Clicking this selection sends a telemetry request to the amplifier asking for that type of data.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier from a PC Options menu From the Options menu, if you Select Windows, the following menu appears. From this window you can select which parameters to display. DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.1 February 2010 Page 6–5 66 Whether or not any of this data is displayed is controlled by options selected in the Options menu.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Operating the Amplifier from a PC RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 66 6 Page 6–6 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
7 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 7 Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 IMPORTANT Clean the Chassis 7–1 Retune the Amplifier 7–2 Replace the Tube and Fuses 7–2 Upgrade Firmware 7–3 • The Alpha 9500 is extremely easy to set up, operate, and ! maintain. However, failure to carry out each procedure exactly as described in this manual is likely to lead to amplifier damage, which is not covered under warranty. Damage to other station equipment may also result.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier 77 Step 6 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Replace the cover and reconnect the AC line cord to the power source. 7.2 Retune the Amplifier Normally you need retune the amplifier only if you change radios, antennas, or some other aspect of your shack.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier ! The amplifier is equipped with a cover interlock switch that removes primary power from the amplifier, and a crowbar that short-circuits high voltage to the chassis when the cover is lifted. These interlocks protect against electric shock resulting from accidental contact with the lethal voltages inside the amplifier. Do not disable the interlock switches for any reason.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier 77 On the Primary Board RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Procedure 7-3 Upgrade firmware on the primary board Step 1 With the amplifier plugged into the power supply, turn the amplifier off. Step 2 Connect a USB cable (Figure 7-1) between the amplifier and the PC. Figure 7-1 USB cable 7 If the PC cannot see an additional COM port when the cable is plugged into the amplifier, run the VCP installer software.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier The bootloader recognizes only COM ports 1 to 9. The amplifier is normally assigned to COM port 6. Confirm this by going to the PC’s Device Manager and checking the computer properties. The correct baud rate is 115,200. IMPORTANT ! Step 5 Check only Reload before Program and Reset after Program. DO NOT check Program data EEPROM, as doing so wipes out all of your factory calibrations.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 77 Upgrading the firmware on these boards requires a few more simple steps. The biggest difference with these upgrades is that you must remove the cover and front panel to access these boards. In addition, you must install a special cable between the USB/serial board underneath the powersupply stack and the processor that is being upgraded. You also need a processor reset cable.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier 77 Figure 7-4 Sound generator board Figure 7-5 Stepper motor board 7 Procedure 7-4 Upgrade firmware on the secondary boards IMPORTANT ! DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.1 February 2010 Before you start, review all steps. If you are unsure of any step, contact RF Concepts. Step 1 Ensure that the amplifier is connected to the PC via the USB cable. Step 2 Power down the amplifier.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier 77 ! RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 WARNING WARNING! Disconnect the AC line cord from the power source before lifting the cover for any reason. Step 4 Remove the transformer and front panel assembly. Place a towel or a soft cloth in front of the amplifier so as not to scratch the panel. Step 5 Connect: the programming cable’s end 1 (Figure 7-6) to the USB/serial board (Figure 7-7).
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier 77 Figure 7-8 Programming cable, end 2 Figure 7-9 3-pin header 7 Step 7 Connect the reset-push-button cable to the 5-pin connector. Step 8 Plug the amplifier in but DO NOT turn it on.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Maintaining and Upgrading the Amplifier 77 7 Step 10 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 On the bootloader, choose the correct filename for the board to be upgraded. Board Filename1 Display Display_Controller_FP_Vx_xx.HEX Mains High_Voltage_Mains_Board_Vx_xx.HEX Sound generator Sound_Generator_FP_Vx_xx.HEX Stepper motor Stepper_Motor_FP_Vx_xx.HEX 1. x_xx is the current version number.
8 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 8 Diagnosing Faults 8.1 Overview 8–1 8.2 Fault Codes and Resolutions 8–2 8.1 Overview One of four situations typically results in a fault: Table 8-1 Fault situations Fault description Incorrect gain (output too low or too high for the input power supplied) Fault type Soft The OPR switch turns OFF and the STBY switch turns ON. Hard The amplifier shuts OFF completely.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 88 8.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults If you operate the amplifier remotely, the control software should be capable of taking the necessary steps over the USB or RS232 interface to “safe” the amplifier. Although no maximum number of attempts to get back online are specified, it is possible, if this fault occurs repeatedly, that consequential damage to the amplifier may result. Such damage may not be covered under warranty.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 88 Fault code 2 Description Tap not found. Explanation The mains board has measured a line voltage that does not correspond to an acceptable primary tap setting. The mains board has a set of relays that can select an appropriate combination of primary windings for the power transformer.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults Min voltage Max voltage 3 189.9 209.9 4 210.0 229.9 5 230.0 265.0 The amplifier selects the tap appropriate to the range reported as being measured. If the measured value does not fall into one of the 5 ranges, the amplifier does not turn on unless you activate manual tap selection. Fault code 3 Description Soft Ip trip. Explanation The current in the high voltage (HV) circuit is greater than 1.6 A.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 88 Fault code 5 Description Vp under voltage. Explanation The mains board monitors the plate voltage (HV, Vp) for approximately 2 seconds after the amplifier is turned fully on (ON 2). If Vp fails to reach approximately 2.8 kV during this time, the mains board reports this fault code. Resolution 1. Ensure that the mains board is selecting the correct primary transformer tap.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults 3. If the fault still does not clear, with the amplifier on, press a bandswitch on the front of the amplifier. Fault code 9 Description Tune cap zero failure. Explanation The stepper motor controller is unable to determine the zero position for the tune capacitor. The tune capacitor has an opto-interrupter that is actuated by a small vane on the drive shaft.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 88 occludes the opto-interrupter. This position is registered as a 0 (zero) for the load capacitor, and represents the minimum attainable capacitance for that capacitor. Maximum capacitance is attained when the stepper motor controlling the load capacitor has taken 100 steps.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults 4. Check the internal airways of the amplifier. Unplug the amplifier, remove the cover, and ensure that the blower motor (to the right of the tube) is clean and that its impeller rotates when moved gently with a long screwdriver. Look down into the tube and ensure that the passages between the anode fins are not blocked, for example by an accumulation of dust. 5.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 88 2. Unplug the amplifier, plug it back in, wait for at least 30 seconds, then turn it back on. Fault code 15 Description Grid current too high. Explanation The amplifier monitors the grid current and, if it exceeds a safe value for a period of time, it goes into BYPASS mode and reports this fault. The usual cause is too much drive for the current output loading condition.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults Description Unauthorized frequency. Explanation The amplifier is not authorized to transmit on that frequency. Amateur equipment sold in the United States is not authorized to transmit between 26 and 28 MHz. Resolution • Change the frequency. 88 Fault code 19 8 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Diagnosing Faults RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 88 8 Page 8–12 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Terminology Terminology NOTE: For detailed explanations of the following terms, see various publications including the latest American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Handbook. A AC — Alternating current. Electric current whose magnitude and direction vary with time. ALC — Automatic Level Control. Technology that automatically controls output power. ampere — Unit of electric current. ARRL — American Radio Relay League. US national organization of amateur radio operators.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Page Terminology RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 F FCC — Federal Communications Commission. For more information, go to www.fcc.gov. FM — Frequency modulation. Modulation scheme in which information is conveyed over a carrier wave by variations in frequency. FSK — Frequency-shift keying. Type of frequency modulation in which information is conveyed by shifts in the output frequency between predetermined values. H HF — High frequency.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Terminology M mA — Milliampere. 10-6 A. MHz — Megahertz. 106 Hz. O OPR — Operate. PCB — Printed circuit board. Board that mechanically supports and electrically connects electronic components. P PSK — Phase-shift keying. Digital modulation scheme in which information is conveyed by changes, or modulations, in the phase of a reference signal. Q QSK — Quadrature-shift keying.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Page Terminology RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 adjacent node (minimum). Measure of antenna and feedline efficiency. T T/R — Transmit /receive. transceiver — Device that has both a transmitter and a receiver within the same circuitry or chassis. U UHF — Ultra-high frequency. Radio frequency US — United States. within the range 300–3000 MHz (3 GHz). V VAC — Volts of alternating current. VDC — Volts of direct current.
RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 Schematics Schematics NOTE: The following pages contain detailed schematics for the Alpha 9500 linear amplifier. DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
Alpha 9500 Linear Amplifier User Manual Page Schematics Page Schem–2 RF Concepts, LLC Product Release 1 DOCNUMBER 9500 Document Issue 1.
