BIRD Thruline 4431 User Manual

INSTRUCTION BOOK
RF DIRECTIONAL
THRULINE® WATTMETER
MODEL 43
Also Covers Models 4431, 43P
And Series 4300 and 4520
©Copyright 2009 by Bird Electronic Corporation
Instruction Book Part Number 920-43 Rev. J
Thruline® and Termaline® are registered trademarks
of Bird Electronic Corporation

BIRD Thruline 4431 Specifications

General

Brand	BIRD
Model	Thruline 4431
Category	Measuring Instruments
Language	English

Summary

Safety Precautions

General Electrical and Handling Safety

Covers essential safety measures like avoiding live circuits, not servicing alone, and proper grounding.

Warning and Caution Statement Explanations

Explains the meaning of warning and caution symbols and statements used in the manual for user safety.

About This Manual

Manual Overview and Content

Provides an overview of the manual's scope, changes, and lists the chapter contents.

Chapter 1 Introduction

Purpose and Function of the Wattmeter

Describes the RF wattmeter's design, intended use, and operating specifications for various modulations.

Performance Characteristics and Capabilities

Details the physical attributes, construction, and key performance features of the Bird 43 Wattmeter.

Chapter 2 Theory of Operation

Travelling Wave Viewpoint and Formulas

Explains the theory of operation using travelling waves and presents relevant power calculation formulas.

Coupling Circuitry Explained

Details the internal coupling circuit and its role in sampling travelling waves for measurement.

Load Power and VSWR Concepts

Explains load power calculation and the relationship between standing waves and travelling waves.

Low Reflection and Transmitter Monitoring

Covers measurements for low reflections and the use of the wattmeter for continuous transmitter monitoring.

Component Testing and Insertion Loss

Describes how to use the wattmeter for component testing and methods for measuring insertion loss.

Frequency Response Characteristics

Discusses the frequency response of plug-in elements and provides examples of performance at different frequencies.

Impedance Mismatch Considerations

Addresses the use of the wattmeter with non-50 ohm transmission lines and impedance mismatch calculations.

Chapter 3 Installation

Unit Installation and Connections

Instructions on preparing the unit for transport and making proper connections in coaxial lines.

Connector and Remote Installation

Procedures for replacing connectors and setting up the wattmeter for remote installation.

Chapter 4 Operating Instructions

Normal Operation Procedures

Step-by-step guide for operating the Bird 43 Wattmeter, including element insertion and power reading.

Load Matching Techniques

Explains how to use the wattmeter for tuning loads and achieving proper impedance matching.

Chapter 5 Maintenance

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A guide to diagnosing and resolving common problems encountered during operation.

Cleaning and Contact Adjustment

Procedures for cleaning the unit and adjusting the DC contact for optimal performance.

Zero Adjustment and Storage Procedures

Instructions for setting the meter's zero point and proper storage of the instrument.

Customer Service and Parts Information

Information on contacting customer support and a list of replacement parts for the Bird 43.

Available Connector Types

Lists various "QC" type connectors compatible with the Bird 43 Wattmeter.

Chapter 6 Model Differences

Bird 43P Peak Wattmeter Features

Details the unique features and operation of the 43P model, including peak power measurement and calibration.

Bird 4301 and 4305A Model Variations

Outlines the physical differences and specific features of the 4301 and 4305A models compared to the Bird 43.

Bird 4431 Sampling Wattmeter Operation

Describes the Bird 4431 RF Sampling Wattmeter, its operation, and specifications.

Bird 4431 Maintenance and Parts

Specific maintenance procedures and replacement parts list for the Bird 4431 model.

Bird 4520 Series Models Overview

Covers installation, operation, and replacement parts for the rack-mountable 4520 series wattmeters.

Chapter 7 Specifications

General Specifications (Impedance, VSWR, Connectors)

Lists nominal impedance, maximum VSWR, and types of connectors used across various models.

Power and Frequency Ranges

Details the power and frequency capabilities for different Bird wattmeter models and elements.

RF Coupling, Insertion Loss, and Accuracy

Provides specifications for RF coupling, insertion loss, and measurement accuracy for different models.

Dimensions, Weight, and Finish

Specifies the physical dimensions, weight, operating position, and finish for various Bird wattmeter models.

Limited Warranty

Warranty Terms and Conditions

Outlines the limited warranty coverage, exclusions, and seller's obligations for manufactured products.