AMERITRON AL-1500 - User Manual

AMERITRON AL-1500
FULL POWER
LINEAR AMPLIFIER
IN
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The Ameritron AL-1500 is a 1500 watt output linear amplifier that
operates from 160 through 15 meters. The Ameritron AL-1500X is the
export model and covers 160 through 10 meters. The AL-1500J is the
export model for Japan and covers 160 through 10 meters. The AL-1500
uses a single 3CX1500A7/8877 tube in a class AB2 grounded grid circuit.
CW, FM and RTTY efficiency is improved by shifting the bias deeper into
class B. The heavy duty power supply and RF components, combined with
a forced air system utilizing a chimney, provide long service life for
expensive components. The AL-1500 is shipped factory wired for 240
volt, 50/60 Hz power mains.
PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING THIS E
Q
UIPMENT!
116 Willow Rd.
Starkville, MS 39759

Summary

Unpacking Instructions

Inspecting Shipments

Check amplifier, transformer, and tube for visible shipping damage.

Retaining Packing Materials

Save all packing materials for potential factory service returns.

Removing Amplifier Cover

Instructions for removing the amplifier cover and locating small parts.

Pre-installation Reading

Read General Information and Specifications before installing components.

Safety Precaution Before Servicing

Always disconnect power before removing the cover to avoid electric shock.

Note on AL-1500 J Model

Details the AL-1500J Japanese export version and its frequency coverage.

Features

Tube and Power Gain

Highlights the high-performance tube, power gain, and SSB/CW bias switch.

Bias, ALC, and Indicators

Describes ALC indicator, illuminated meters, and tuning adjustments.

Tuning, Meters, and Switches

Details tuning controls, meter functions, and operational switches.

Auxiliary Jacks and Overload Protection

Details 12V auxiliary jack, XMT indicator, and grid overload circuit.

Technical Specifications AL-1500

Input and Output Parameters

Details input VSWR, drive power, and output power ratings.

Power Supply and Tube Details

Lists power supply voltage, current, transformer, and tube type.

Metering, Efficiency, and Coverage

Describes meter functions, efficiency ratings, and frequency coverage.

Dimensions and Weight

Provides physical dimensions and weight of the amplifier unit.

General Information

Safety Interlock System

Explains the function of the interlock switch for safety.

Driving Power Requirements

Details recommended exciter drive power and potential issues.

Filament and Plate Supply

Describes the filament and plate supply circuits and their operation.

Timer Overload Board Function

Explains the timer board for cathode warm-up and grid overload protection.

Export Model Modifications

Information on obtaining instructions for modifying export models.

Metering Functions

Plate Voltage and Current Readings

How to read Plate Voltage (HV) and Plate Current (Ip) on the meters.

RF Watts and ALC Readings

How to read Peak RF Watts (PO) and ALC levels on the meters.

Technical Assistance

Periodic Maintenance

Transformer Installation

Tube Installation

Filament;Blower Wiring Instructions

Filament Transformer Line Voltage

How to select the correct terminal lugs for desired filament line voltage.

Blower Connections

How to connect blower wires for different fan speeds.

Interconnection

RF and Ground Connections

Connecting RF input, RF output, and establishing proper grounding.

Auxiliary and ALC Connections

Connecting 12V auxiliary power and relay jacks for accessories.

Location

Ventilation

Airflow and Obstruction Guidelines

Instructions to prevent blocking ventilation holes and ensure free air circulation.

Fan and Heat Management

Notes on exhaust air temperature and avoiding heat-sensitive objects.

Power Connections

Grounding

Tuning Instructions

Plate and Load Control Functions

Explains the purpose and adjustment of the PLATE and LOAD tuning controls.

Operation

CW Procedure

Step-by-step guide for operating the amplifier in CW mode.

SSB Procedure

Step-by-step guide for operating the amplifier in SSB mode.

SSTV, FM, RTTY, Packet, AMTOR

Guidelines for operating in various digital and modulation modes.

ALC (Automatic Level Control)

Setting the ALC ADJ Control

Procedure for adjusting the rear panel ALC control for proper drive levels.

Standard Frequency Coverage

Warning!

AL-1500 Input Chart

Parts List

AMERITRON AL-1500 Specifications

General

Brand	AMERITRON
Model	AL-1500
Category	Amplifier
Language	English