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Chapter 6 Model Differences
Bird 43P Peak Wattmeter
The Bird 43P Thruline Wattmeter is the same as the Bird 43, with the
added capability of measuring peak power in AM, SSB, and some
pulse applications. A conversion kit (P/N 4300-400) is available to give
peak reading capability to any standard Bird 43. This kit comes with
all necessary parts and easy to follow instructions for simple and
quick conversion.
Special elements are not required. However, the element power rating
must match the peak power to be measured. For example, if 1000 watt
peaks are expected, use a 1000 watt element.
Operation
There is a push button on/off switch on the right side of the meter.
y To read peak power, push the switch in. The red LED will light.
y To read CW power, push the switch again. The LED will turn off.
Peak Detector Response
Since the peak detector’s response time is about one second, a short
delay may be noticed before the meter reading stabilizes. This will
also be noticed when the transmitter is turned off. In voice modulated
systems, the meter reading may fluctuate by 2–3 minor scale divisions
as the peak detector attempts to follow the power variations.
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