Version 0A 9
Radio and Antenna Connections
WARNING: Forcing connector engagement can result in permanent connector
damage. Solder on the outside of center pins or bent pins are primary causes of
female connector damage. External solder or bent center pins can permanently
damage the female.
Do not use Line Isolators on amplifier RF cables. The chassis of the amplifier should
be at the same RF potential as all other desk equipment. Shield isolators allow
equipment to float to different RF chassis potentials. Different chassis potentials are
exactly what we do not want, and isolators on desk coaxial cables encourage differing
enclosure RF voltages. It is better to cure RF problems outside the operating position.
RF connections are through standard UHF female connectors. Use 50-ohm coaxial
cables with quality, properly soldered, UHF male (PL259) connectors. The output cable
must safely handle at least 600 watts.
Examine the RF connectors. Female SO-239 UHF connectors have notches on the
outer threaded-area edge. PL259 UHF males have protruding tabs on the metal outside
the center-pin insulator. These tabs and notches prevent unwanted connector rotation.
The male tab or tabs must align and fit into female notches. This interlocking prevents
connector rotation. It is best achieved by slightly wiggling or rotating the cable while
hand-tightening the male’s shell to seat the male tab into the female notch.
With a firm handgrip, while making sure the PL259 male connector tab interlocks with
the amplifier’s SO-239 chassis connector notch, gradually tighten RF connectors. Do
not use excessive force on connectors. Check for proper tightness and seating by
wiggling and flexing the cable and watching for any male connector movement on the
female. Properly seated, connectors will be solidly locked without use of pliers or tools.
ALC and Relay (keying or TX line) connectors are standard phono females. Phono
males from external cables should push directly in with a snug, but not overly tight.
The Relay line operates with low voltage (<12V) and low current (<20 mA). Transmit is
enabled by pulling the Relay line to ground with a relay contact or transistor. Read your
radio manual. Unless you have a very unusual radio, your radio should directly key this
amplifier. Avoid using external interfaces with relays. Amplifier relay switching time is
approximately 10-12 mS.
The remote and radio band data connectors are specialized connections. They are for
use with Ameritron supplied cables only.
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