INSTRUCTION BOOK OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS TENULINE® ATTENUATOR MODEL 8329-300 Electronic Corporation Cleveland (Solon) Ohio USA ©Copyright 1998 by Bird Electronic Corporation Instruction Book Part Number 920-8329-300 Revision A Tenuline® is a Registered Trademark of Bird Electronic Corporation
Safety Precautions The following are general safety precautions that are not necessarily related to any specific part or procedure, and do not necessarily appear elsewhere in this publication. These precautions must be thoroughly understood and applied to all phases of operation and maintenance. Keep Away From Live Circuits Operating Personnel must at all times observe general safety precautions.
CAUTION Caution notes call attention to a procedure which if not correctly performed, could result in damage to the instrument. This symbol appears on the equipment indicating there is important information in the instruction manual regarding that particular area. + Note: Calls attention to supplemental information. Warning Statements WARNING The vent plug must be used at all times when the unit is in operation or cooling.
Safety Statements USAGE ANY USE OF THIS INSTRUMENT IN A MANNER NOT SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER MAY IMPAIR THE INSTRUMENT’S SAFETY PROTECTION. USO EL USO DE ESTE INSTRUMENTO DE MANERA NO ESPECIFICADA POR EL FABRICANTE, PUEDE ANULAR LA PROTECCIÓN DE SEGURIDAD DEL INSTRUMENTO. BENUTZUNG WIRD DAS GERÄT AUF ANDERE WEISE VERWENDET ALS VOM HERSTELLER BESCHRIEBEN, KANN DIE GERÄTESICHERHEIT BEEINTRÄCHTIGT WERDEN.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator WARTUNG ANWEISUNGEN FÜR DIE WARTUNG DES GERÄTES GELTEN NUR FÜR GESCHULTES FACHPERSONAL. ZUR VERMEIDUNG GEFÄHRLICHE, ELEKTRISCHE SCHOCKS, SIND WARTUNGSARBEITEN AUSSCHLIEßLICH VON QUALIFIZIERTEM SERVICEPERSONAL DURCHZUFÜHREN. ENTRENTIEN L’EMPLOI DES INSTRUCTIONS D’ENTRETIEN DOIT ÊTRE RÉSERVÉ AU PERSONNEL FORMÉ AUX OPÉRATIONS D’ENTRETIEN. POUR PRÉVENIR UN CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE DANGEREUX, NE PAS EFFECTUER D’ENTRETIEN SI L’ON N’A PAS ÉTÉ QUALIFIÉ POUR CE FAIRE.
About This Manual This instruction manual covers the Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator. This instruction book is arranged so that essential information on safety is contained in the front of the book. Reading the Safety Precautions section before operating the equipment is strongly advised. The remainder of this instruction book is divided into chapters and sections.
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Table of Contents Safety Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i Warning Statements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii Caution Statements.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Purpose and Function. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Dimensions and Weight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Items Supplied. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator Normal Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Operation Under Abnormal Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Shutdown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Emergency Shutdown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Preventive Maintenance. . .
Chapter 1 Introduction This publication refers to the Tenuline Attenuator Model 8329-300. This chapter contains introductory information including product specifications, items supplied, and accessory items available. Purpose and Function The Model 8329-300 Attenuator is a low-reflection resistance network for application in reducing RF power by known and controlled amounts. It is a self-contained instrument that requires no external source of power (except if blower equipped) or utility service.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator Items Required s Instruction Manual The following items are required to put the Model 8329-300 into service. s Multimeter s Screwdrivers s Matching connectors on the coaxial transmis- Optional Items sion line. The following items are available as optional equipment. s Overload thermoswitch, P/N 8329-028, for protection against burnout. s Quick-Change connectors for convenient and easy interchange with other “AN” type “QC” connectors.
Introduction Specifications Impedance: VSWR: Input (dc-500MHz) Output (dc-500MHz) Connectors: Input Output Power Range: Without blower assembly: With blower assembly: With blower, but not running: Frequency Range: Attenuation: Calibration Frequencies (to ±0.2dB) Dimensions: Ambient Temperature: Cooling Method: Without blower assembly With blower assembly Weight: Without blower assembly With blower assembly Operating Position: Finish: *Special Attenuation Data to 1000MHz 50 ohms nominal 1.1:1.0 maximum 1.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator Figure 1 Model 8329-300 Outline Drawing <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Interlock Thermoswitch (Optional) Input Connector Per Customer Order Female "LC" Normally Supplied <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< 2-61/64 (75mm) 20-23/32 ±1/32 (526 ±.8mm) MTG.
Chapter 2 Theory of Operation The Model 8329-300 Attenuator is a symmetrical “T” pad, with the power distribution on the legs being different. Therefore, the value of the resistance on each leg is different according to the power it is to absorb. On the input resistor element, a proportionately larger resistor is of course required for its much greater power dissipation. A “T” configuration is used to provide equal input and output impedance’s for the 50 ohm transmission line attenuation.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator + Note: At the full power and frequency capabil- ity of this model, refer to the Specifications, only type LC, LT (Female or Male) or 7/8" EIA (air line) connectors will be adequate on the input line.
Chapter 3 Operating Instructions This chapter provides information for on-site requirements, unpacking, inspection, and preparing the equipment for use. Site and Shelter Requirements Unpacking and Inspection Tools Required The Model 8329-300 Attenuator should be operated in a dry, dust, and vibration free environment. The ambient temperature range should remain between -40°C and +45°C (-40°F and +113°F) for proper operation.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator s Bolt and nut sets or lag screws (for mounting) Mounting CAUTION This equipment is designed for operation in a horizontal position only, with mounting brackets down. Do not operate in any other manner. The attenuator may stand free, may be secured to a bench, or any convenient flat surface. The front and rear face plates are made of heavier gauge material bent outward 90° at the bottom to form mounting flanges.
Operating Instructions Figure 2 Shipping Plug O-ring seal Figure 3 Vent Plug O-Ring Seal Thermoswitch As an optional item, the attenuator can be provided with a thermoswitch assembly (P/N 8329-028). When the thermoswitch is installed, it prevents possible damage from accidental power overloading from the transmitter or equipment malfunction. The thermoswitch is normally closed and opens at a maximum safe temperature of +200°C (+392°F).
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator + Note: Be very careful removing the iron pipe plug, the threads in the socket hole are aluminum, and can be easily damaged. 4. Replace the plug with the thermoswitch. Use an acceptable pipe sealing compound sparingly only on the external threads of the thermoswitch. + Note: Do not contaminate the coolant with pipe sealing compound. 5. Check the unit for coolant leaks. While following the instructions for connecting the Thermoswitch, refer to figure 4. 1.
Operating Instructions 2. Thread the interlock wires through the clamp (E) with the washers (F) inside and with its threaded fitting in place. 3. Service the interlock wires with short tips, use spaghetti sleeves over the wire ends if needed. 4. Securely solder the interlock leads to the lugs (G) of the connector base. + Note: Be sure that the larger captive clamping nut (A) is in place over the base plug (D) with the knurled end outward. 5.
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Chapter 4 Operating Instructions There are no operating controls for the Model 8329-300 Attenuator. However, if it is equipped with a blower assembly, BA-300, there will be an ON/OFF switch and a BLOWER ON indicator lamp on the assembly. Read and become familiar with the following instructions before operating the unit. Initial Adjustments Before connection of the attenuator, perform the following steps. 1. Wipe all connectors and insulator surfaces on the transmission line face with a clean soft cloth.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator 2. Connect the attenuator output to a suitable load with 50 ohm coaxial cable (RG-8A/U, RG-9/U, RG-213/U or equivalent) equipped with connectors which mate with the RF output connector of the attenuator. 3. Follow the transmitter manufacturer’s instructions.
Operating Instructions Because the Model 8329-300 attenuator is a passive device and has no indicators or controls, it requires no operating procedures or surveillance when the performance limits are not exceeded. It should function faultlessly, absorbing and converting the excess RF energy into heat indefinitely, if it is properly maintained and not subjected to an overload. Operation Under Abnormal Conditions The Model 8329-300 Attenuator is not intended or recommended for outdoor use.
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Chapter 5 Maintenance This chapter contains operator maintenance instructions, troubleshooting, and parts information. Troubleshooting Problem Leakage of Coolant Oil around clamping band or radiator housing. Excessive overheating of the radiator High or low dc resistance values. Possible Cause Remedy Clamping band not tight Tighten slightly with a screwdriver. Faulty O-Ring (input) Replace per the instructions in this Chapter. Faulty O-Ring (output) Replace per the instructions in this Chapter.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator Preparation: s Material: Lint-free cleaning cloth s Mild detergent To clean the unit follow the instructions below. 1. Gently remove loose dirt and grime using a soft clean cloth dampened with a mild warm solution of detergent and water. 2. Check the condition of the RF coaxial connector. If it needs cleaning, clean the connector with a self-drying contact cleaner that leaves no residue on the inaccessible portions.
Maintenance 3. Connect the multimeter test leads across the center and outer conductor of the load resistor. Refer to figure 5. 4. Record the value of the resistance before the load is put into service. Compare the subsequent values with the latest reading. If the values vary more than 2 ohms, this could be an indication of a failing resistive element. Figure 5 Meter Lead Placement + Note: It is recommended that this resistance check be performed each time the load is to be used.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator 4. Install the four screws that were previously removed. Coolant The level of the dielectric coolant should remain constant in the unit after prolonged usage under normal operating conditions. As shipped, the coolant is at a factory determined level, and should be about 3-1/4" (82.5mm) below the surface of the thermoswitch hole, with the unit in a vertical position.
Maintenance 6. Remove the V-band clamp from around the front (input) connector assembly by loosening the 10-32 holding screw sufficiently to slip the band off. 7. Carefully work the RF section assembly loose and lift it straight out of the resistor tank. + Note: There will be some initial resistance as the O-Ring seal around the rear connector assembly comes loose from the housing. As the RF section comes out of the rear connector assembly, the coolant will start to pour into the container.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator 14. Screw the pipe plug or thermoswitch back in place carefully to avoid stripping the aluminum threads of the plug hole. 15. Lower the attenuator back onto its feet. 16. Check all seals for signs of leaks. RF Load Resistor To replace the load resistor follow the same procedure as in the Replacing Coolant section. However, inspect the O-Ring seals. Do not reuse the O-Rings if they are no longer soft and pliable or shows signs of cracks.
Maintenance Customer Service Sales / Repair Facilities U.S.A. Sales and Manufacturing Service Group Bird Electronic Corporation 30303 Aurora Road Cleveland (Solon), Ohio 44139-2794 Phone: (440) 248-1200 Fax: (440) 248-5426 Sales Facilities For the location of the sales office nearest you, give us a call or visit our Web site at: http://www.bird-electronic.com Shipment RF Section Assembly Wrap the RF section assembly with sufficient padding to avoid damage in shipping and tape securely.
Bird Model 8329-300 Tenuline Attenuator Storage No special preparations for storage are necessary other than to cover the equipment to keep out dust and dirt. Store the unit in a dry and dust-free environment where the ambient temperature will remain within the -40°C to +45°C (-40°F to +113°F) operational range of the load. Replacement Parts List Qty. Description 1 RF Section Assembly 1 Radiator Assembly Coolant - 2.
Limited Warranty All products manufactured by Seller are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year, unless otherwise specified, from date of shipment and to conform to applicable specifications, drawings, blueprints and/or samples.
