User's Manual

6888882V04
RCK1000 Owners-Guide-v4.doc
3
Introduction
This manual covers the installation and operation of the MICOM RCK1000 1KW system. The
MICOM RM125 or RM125R, part of the MICOM-3 line of HF-SSB radio sets, is used as exciter and
controller to for the 1KW amplifier . The amplifier is powered by a separate power supply unit .
The complete 1KW transceiver system is installed in a 19” rack.
1KW System Description
The RCK1000, expands the MICOM-3 product line by offering higher transmit power (up to 1KW,
PEP and average), and thus longer reach and improved communications under bad propagation
conditions and/or strong interference.
The RCK1000 consists of three units placed in rack mounting: RM-125/RM-125R transceiver ,
1KW RF linear power amplifier and an AC-powered PS unit. The equipment is well suited for
base station applications, and can be directly connected to a wide range of broadband or tuned
antennas, including whip, dipole, traveling wave, delta, and semi-delta antennas.
The 1KW amplifier is optimized for operation in conjunction with the RM125 or RM125R radio
set as exciter and controller, using a dedicated communication interface and a flexible
handshaking protocol (interface cable kit, option G156, for connecting the 1KW amplifier to the
RM125/RM125R). The RM125/RM125R controls the 1KW amplifier operation, enables the
operator to select the nominal transmit power, and the 1KW amplifier provides ALC feedback to
adjust the RM125/RM125R drive power to the optimum level.
Caution
Before putting a new RCK1000 into operation, it is necessary to calibrate
the system to obtain the correct transmit power (this calibration must
also be performed after either the exciter, or the amplifier is replaced).
Calibration instructions for the recommended exciter, RM125/RM125R,
appear in the Publication 2072-09538-00, “Radio Service Software (RSS),
User’s Guide” for RSS version V3.0 or higher.
Protection circuits monitor the various operating conditions, and prevent damage to the 1KW
system by taking appropriate action, in accordance with the detected problem.
The RCK1000 has several status indicators, and a front-panel LCD that enables the operator to
monitor the operation of the subunits: active frequency , actual forward and reflected power (or
VSWR), report problems such as the activation of protection circuits or technical malfunctions.
A serial RS-232 asynchronous interface can be used for maintenance and calibration, using any
data communication terminal , and the micom radio programming application.
The 1KW amplifier is active only in the transmit mode: when not powered, in the receive mode,
and also after the protection circuits are activated, the 1KW amplifier switches to the bypass
mode, and directly connects the radio set to the antenna system.