RF Concepts Alpha 8406 Manuale utente
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Preliminary
ALPHA 8406
6 Meter
VHF LINEAR AMPLIFIER
OPERATING MANUAL
© 2010 RF Concepts, Inc
634 S Sunset St
Longmont, Colorado 80501
Phone 303 4739232
All rights reserved
Specifications subject to change without notice - Rev. 1.2
December, 2010
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Index
Specifications 3
Introduction 5
Quick Start Information 9
Station Engineering Considerations 11
Unpacking and Preparation 19
Theory of Operation 27
Operations and Maintenance 31
Trouble Shooting Hints 41
Glossary 45
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Specifications 8406 6 Meter Amplifier
Frequency 50-54 MHz
Input drive Level 50 Watts Nominal
Power Output 1500 watts
SWR Tolerance 3:1
Duty Cycle 100 %
Tubes (4CX1500B)
Inter Modulation Level 34 dB minimum, Two Exciter
Harmonics -72 dBc
Mode of Operation CW, SSB, FM
Input AC Voltage 100-240 Selectable
AC Current <13 5mps @240 VAC @1500 watts
Input Impedance 50 Ohms
Output Impedance 50 Ohms
RF Connectors “N” Female
Cooling Forced Air
Size 17.3”W x 7”H x 21.0”D Including Fan Space
Weight 70 lbs., 31.8 kg
T/R Relay Vacuum QSK
Tuning Manual
Display Bargraph LED
Interface USB
Protection Against all common faults
RF Bypass Level Less than 200 watts
This amplifier meets or exceeds all technical specifications listed above.
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1 Introduction
1.1 General Description
Congratulations on your purchase of a professional quality Alpha 8406 amplifier! With
proper installation and care, you can expect to enjoy your Amateur Radio hobby with this
amplifier improving your signal for many years to come. Please study this manual
carefully before operating your amplifier for the first time.
The Alpha 8406 is a self-contained manual tune VHF linear power amplifier capable of
continuous operation at 1500 W peak power output on SSB, keyed CW, SSTV, RTTY,
digital modes or FM, with no time limit.
See our web site at www.rfconcepts.com or call 303-473-9232 for further information.
1.2 Amplifier Capabilities
CAUTION:
It is extremely important to thoroughly review the Installation and
Operation sections of this manual before attempting to us the Alpha
8406. Failure to do so could result in serious damage that may not
be covered under warranty.
Continuous RF Output. The 8406 is capable of 1.5 kW continuous RF output on
all commonly used modes and on any authorized amateur frequency from 50-54
MHz
Compatibility with popular amateur transceivers and exciters. The 8406 requires
approximately 50-65 W peak RF drive for 1.5 kW output.
Capable of full CW break-in, QSK and all digital modes when used with any
appropriate transceiver.
Protective functions are built in. The control system incorporates protective
functions that minimize the probability of accidental damage to the amplifier or
its power tubes. In most cases, when one of the protective functions is “tripped,”
the amplifier will go to Standby.
1.3 Shipping Information
The Alpha 8406 amplifier ships in two heavy-duty double cardboard cartons. One carton
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holds the power transformer and weighs 43 lb (20 kg) and the second carton contains the
amplifier and weighs 50 lb.(17 kg).
Alpha recommends that you retain the cartons after installation in the unlikely situation
that you need to ship the unit later. Contact RF Concepts at 303-473-9232 for shipping
advice and assistance.
1.4 Safety Information –Installation and Operation
Make sure the Alpha 8406 is located where there is good air circulation all around
and on top of the cabinet. The unit may become hot during operation.
The Alpha 8406 weighs approximately 70 pounds when the transformer is
installed. Use proper lifting techniques and two people when moving the
amplifier. Note that amplifier should NEVER be transported with the transformer
in place.
The Alpha 8406 is designed to meet international safety standards and FCC
regulations. However, one should always remember that the equipment works
with high voltages that can be LETHAL!
This operating manual holds information, cautions and warnings that must be
followed to ensure safe installation and operation. Read Chapter 1 before
attempting to unpack or operate the Alpha 8406 amplifier.
Warnings: What Not to Do
Never open the amplifier case without unplugging the unit from
the wall outlet.
Always resist the temptation to immediately hit the ON button after
the amplifier faults to power off.
Never touch an antenna during transmission.
Never attempt to turn on the amplifier without the cover
securely in place (all attachment screws reinserted).
Never turn the amplifier back on after a hard fault without
waiting at least 20 seconds.
Never allow liquids to enter the amplifier through the cover holes.
Never stick objects into holes in the case.
Warnings posted in this manual should be read and thoroughly
understood by users. Failure to perform procedures properly
may result in amplifier damage, fire hazard, or electric shock.
1.5 Owner Assistance
Technical Assistance from RF Concepts is available from several sources.
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The RF Concepts web site is www.rfconcepts.com. Click on Support and
follow the instructions. Many typical problems and their solutions are listed
on this site. On this site you can get the following assistance:
Technical Support
Repair Information
Software Downloads
Manuals
Tech Tips
Legacy Equipment Information
FAQ’s
Alpha Forum
You can email us for customer support by filling in the support request at
www.rfconcepts.com or you can send your request by fax to 303-473-9660, or
call us at 303-473-9232
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2 Quick Start Information
2.1 Overview
This section explains in brief the items you need to consider when setting up your
Alpha 8406 amplifier.
If you already have a well-designed shack and have used an amplifier before, please
review the items below to make sure you have considered all the critical items for
proper installation and operation.
If you are using an amplifier for the first time, please skip this section and go to sections
3, 4, and 5 for a more detailed explanation of how to set up your shack for maximum
safety and operating enjoyment.
If you have installation questions, do not hesitate to contact Customer Support. We
much prefer to address questions prior to power up.
2.2 Station Engineering Considerations - Checklist
Make sure you have properly addressed the following concerns (Section 2.3 below)
before installation of your Alpha 8406 amplifier. If you are unsure of any of these
items, please read the noted sections carefully.
2.3 Preparation
__ 240V AC Power in shack? (Section 3.2)
__ Amplifier placed with proper airflow? (Section 3.3)
__ Antenna ready for 1,500W? (Section 3.4)
__ Adequate RF cabling? (Section 3.5)
__ RF Exposure Safety (Section 3.6)
2.4 Unpacking
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__ Unit Checked for Damage?
__ Transformer Installed? (Section 4.2.1, 4.2.2)
__ Power Cord Connector Attached? (Section 4.2.3)
__ AC Primary Voltage Set? (Section 4.3.6)
___Amplifier Grounded Properly? (Section 4.4.1)
__ Amplifier Cover Replaced and Secured? (Section 4.3.6)
2.5 Operation
__ All Exciter Interconnections Set? (Section 6.2)
__ Exciter Drive Correctly Set? (Section 6.1.1)
__ Amplifier Tuned to Antenna System? (Section 6.3.6)
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