Alpha 9500 HF Linear Amplifier Operating Manual Alpha Radio Products
Diagnosing Faults Product Release 1
DOCNUMBER 9500
Document Issue 1, Revision 7
Page 9–2 June 2009
99
Fault code 1
Description Gain fault.
Explanation The power gain (power output divided by power input) of the amplifier
has fallen below a value of 10 (10 dB). The normal gain of the amplifier
when properly tuned is around 30 (15 dB), so this represents a substantial
drop in gain. It is, in fact, the first line of protection for the unit, since
almost any major problem in the amplifier (or even in the load connected
to the amplifier) manifests as a drop in gain.
The amplifier attempts to automatically clear this fault after 4 seconds
and, if the key line is still asserted, go into OPERATE mode. If the fault
reoccurs, this process repeats indefinitely. If it occurs often in a short
period of time, it is important that you determine the underlying cause and
correct the problem.
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.
5 Vp under voltage
6 Output relay closure fail
7 Output relay may be stuck
8 Bandswitch set failure
9 Tune cap zero failure
10 Load cap zero failure
11 Over-temperature
12 Reflected power too high
13 Clear over-temperature
14 Plate voltage too high
15 Grid current too high
16 Autotune failure
17 Plate current too high with amplifier unkeyed
18 Input power too high
Table 9-2 Fault code summary
Number Description
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