Specifications

amplifier output power from the front panel “ALC Set” control. When properly adjusted,
the ALC also prevents you from accidentally overdriving the amplifier.
Amplifier metering consists of a cross -needle SWR/Peak-Power meter. The power
supply also uses a cross-needle meter which gives simultaneous voltage and current
readings. Some of the other specifications are as follows:
Output Power: Typically 600 Watts PEP SSB, 500 Watts CW, 300 Watts
continuous.
Input SWR: 1.5:1 or less
Spurious Outputs: Greater than 45 dB down
Intermodulation Distortion: Greater than 25 dB down
Operate/Standby Switch: Selects exciter or full amplifier power instantly .
T/R Switching: Semi- or Manual break-in. Full break-in is not supported.
(See my comments on a QSK modification below)
T/R Relay Drive: 12VDC at 100ma maximum, ground to enable
Indicators: ALC, XMT and Load Fault LED indicators.
Inrush Current Protection: Step-start extends life of power supply components.
Power Requirements: 120VAC/12 amps, 240VAC/6 amps (Linear power supply)
120VAC/14 amps, 240VAC/7 amps (Switching power
supply)
Dimensions (ALS-600): 6"H x 9.5"W x 12"D
Dimensions (Power Supply): 6"H x 9.5"W x 14”D
Weight (ALS-600): 12.5 pounds (amplifier only)
Weight (ALS-600PS): 32.5 pounds (linear power supply)
Weight (ALS-600SPS): 10 pounds (switching power supply)
You’ll note that the switching power supply actually draws more AC current than the
linear power supply. This is because the linear power supply is unregulated and is
therefore very efficient (regulator circuitry causes poor efficiency in linear power
supplies). If you are using the switching power supply, you should probably plug the
amplifier into a separate AC branch than the one your transceiver is connected to unless
you have a 20-amp AC branch circuit. The advantage of the switching power supply is a
savings of 22.5 pounds – which may be desirable for portable use.
Let’s Fire-Up the Amplifier
Connecting up the ALS-600 is trivial. Since it comes wired for 120VAC operation, it is
ready to plug into your wall outlet. You’ll also need a ground wire from the amplifier to
your station’s single-point ground connection point, and ALC and amp keying cables
(typically RCA cables) to interface with your transceiver. Photo C shows the back-side
connectors of the ALS-600.