Expert 2K-FA User`s Manual ver.1.1
Contents
1. 40 GND 410 0 40 CND RELAY SEND TX GND RELAY ALC 40 GND ALC 6 50 RADIO CONNECTOR DB15M 13 2 REMOTE ON LINK 1c 9 2 10 3 GND 4 12 5 13 GND 6 14 13 8V 7 15 RADIO CONNECTOR 8 REMOTE ON DB15 M Pag 39 of 39 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 13 3 CONNECTIONS TX INH TX INH All modern transceivers have a delay before the transmission to allow the linear to stabilize their relays avoiding damage to them and possible effects of Hot Switching The Expert 2K FA has a settling time of only 6 5 msec compatible with all modern transceivers see the manual of the transceiver Some transceivers have an input called TX INHIBIT LINEAR MUTE etc which disables the transmission This input can be used with transceivers that do not have such delay or more generally to improve the safety of switching The Expert 2K FA has two outputs that can be connected to the TX INHIBIT of the transceiver TX INH usually gnd 550 ohm stops the transmission when 12V b TX INH open collector normally off stops the transmission when gnd on To choose a or b as well as to enable the TX INHIBIT input refer to the manual of the transceiver TX INH Link GHD I TX INHBIT TX INH RADIO CONNECTOR DB15 M Pag 40 of 40 Issue 2 May 2011 e User man2. Le ee Lan eue toe aee iet debeo eee te eine 41 13 5 PORT CONNECTOR 42 14 TRANSCEIVER CONTROLLED WITH A 44 14 1 ICOM CIV INTERFACE vor 44 14 2 232 45 14 3 KENWOOD INTERFACE 2 22 020404060000 0 0 00 45 144 2204 46 Pag 2 of 2 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 15 USE OF THE USB PORT terne tenete ena eek asus aer 47 UE EE i i esuzielon iio 47 19 2 DOWNLOAD retener aderire sek pd cce 48 16 MAINTENANCE ERE 49 17 CHARACTERISTICS 50 18 DIAGNOSTICS EE 52 19 jl 53 20 WARRANTY TERMS entente terere en nasa seen Enea cix Ra e eua a adn ash 54 REPAIR EET 56 Pag 3 of 3 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA Congratulations for choosing the SPE EXPERT 2K FA solid state linear amplifier It is small and powerful it covers all the amateurs bands
3. 87 8 Set your to transmit a continuous RTTY or CW signal Press the 4 1 L gt 4 C keys until you obtain the minimum SWR The operating frequency and the sub band are also shown on the Display Note the tuning process has to be repeated for every entry INPUT1 INPUT 2 d DISPLAY Regulates the backlight and the contrast of the display e BEEP On All acoustic warnings alarms operate and a beep confirms a keystroke Off When you press a key there is no beep feedback but for all warning conditions and alarms the acoustic warnings are still functional f START Stby Sets STANDBY mode at startup Oprt Sets OPERATE mode at startup g TEMP C Displays temperature readout expressed in Celsius degrees F Displays temperature readout expressed in degrees h ALARMS LOG Shows the most recent 10 SERIOUS alarms occurred i TUN ANT Allows you to associate a tuneable antenna to one of 6 ANT connectors A t highlights the selected antenna j RX ANT Allows you to set a single receiving antenna An r highlights the selected antenna k FAN NOISE QUIET MODE minimizes fans noise of the PSU in Operate which then only runs during the transmission mode Recommended if the 80ms rise time of the PSU doesn t damage the start of a transmission eg SSB without VOX NORMAL MODE the PSU fans in Operate always are running albeit more slowly in receiving mode
4. The PSU is always ON so that its rise time can t damage the start of a transmission Pag 28 of 28 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 11 INITIAL OPERATION OF THE AMPLIFIER Before turning ON the amplifier the following preliminary operations are necessary Read this manual with care 1 Be sure that the amplifier is correctly set for the local mains voltage supply 2 Connect the amplifier to the ground circuit 3 Connect the antennas 4 Connect the amplifier to the transceiver read the CONNECTIONS WITH THE TRANSCEIVER chapter of this manual Operate I the main switch on back panel and press the ON key on the front panel Select the INPUT for the transceiver and always carry out programming with the amplifier in STANDBY If you change INPUT you have to repeat this programming Note you may have to repeat some programming if you change antenna transceiver etc Note ATTENTION the RELAY and CAT signals in some types of transceivers are only turned ON from a transceiver MENU Refer to the user manual Note ATTENTION when the amplifier is on the STANDBY and OPERATE modes always disable the transceiver auto ATU 11 1 Initial Programming You must carry out the next steps in the sequence below a Set Antenna Press SET and open the ANTENNA menu page Assign an appropriate antenna for the band concerned If you don t have an antenna for a band input N When all the antenn
5. a SOCIETA PER L ELETTRONICA s r l EXPERT 2K FA 2KW SOLID STATE FULLY AUTOMATIC LINEAR AMPLIFIER USER S MANUAL Rev 1 1 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA Index IMPORTANI I 4 PRECAUTION 5 4 Eiedosm 7 1 PANEL DESORIPTION iate eee ener E er Ee deo Cete ete eee c Yee Le vete dus 8 1 1 mU 8 1 2 Rear Panel eaa werden aver ae ee mex er es aes 9 2 GENERAL INFORMATION 10 2 2 OUTPUT EDT 10 2 3 RELAY CAT tet cete der ade ea te ose dee Ote vetus 10 3 INTERCONNECTION WITH THE 12 4 USE OF THE LINEAR 2 4 100 13 4 1 SO2R Single Operator Two Radio 14 4 2 BAND PASS FILTERS SET SPE 1 4 04060002 0 1 15 4 3 QSK FULL BREAK IN OPERAT IQN
6. 8 DB15M RX 232 TX 232 4 RXD TXD GND RX 232 TX 232 GND RTS CTS RADIO CONNECTOR The Radio connector could be DB 9 or DB 25 male connector or female connector read the specific manual In the manual also verify if the RTS CTS link is necessary CAT 5V TTL Interface RXTIL TXTIL KENTIL GND TX RX GND 9 20 10 3 y 11 C re 12 gt 13 6 14 15 80 0815 RTS CTS RADIO CONNECTOF The connector is described in the specific manual Verify if the RTS CTS link is necessary Pag 34 of 34 Issue 2 May 2011 a User manual EXPERT 2K FA 12 5 YAESU CAT RS232 Interface 9 2 10 3 112 4 120 5 13 6 4 7 7 15 8 DB15M 232 TX 232 GND RXD TXD TX 232 RX 232 GND RTS CTS RADIO CONNECTOR The radio connector may be a DB 9 or DB 25 male connector or female connector read the specific manual Verify from the manual if the RTS CTS link is necessary CAT 5V TTL Interface 9 2 10 C RX TTL TX TTL TEO GND 12 5 13 65 14 Ta 15 8 DB15M TX RX GND RTS CTS RADIO CONNECTOR The connector is described in the manual Verify if the RTS CTS link is necessary Pag 35 of 35 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA BAND DATA Interface 9 2 10 3 11 4 12 55 1
7. May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 2 GENERAL INFORMATION Read the specific chapters for more details 2 1 Power supply The linear uses a switching power supply with a continuous input between 190 and 255 Vac The main switch I O is located on the rear panel in the O position all the internal circuitry is powered off in the I position red led ON it is possible to turn ON or turn OFF the linear amplifier in one of the following ways a Using the ON OFF keys on the front panel b Applying removing 9 15 Vdc on pin 8 of the CAT connector Using the USB port and the management software It is possible to download this software from the website www linear amplifier com Note when turned ON almost all transceivers output 13 8 Vdc With this voltage the linear amplifier can be turned automatically ON OFF at the same time as the transceiver 2 2 Output The linear amplifier has two inputs INPUT 1 INPUT 2 to which it is possible to connect two transceivers of any brand or type These inputs are selected with the INPUT key or automatically with the PTT of each transceiver It can manage up to six antennas ANT 1 ANT 2 ANT 3 ANT 4 ANT 5 ANT 6 The amplifier selects antennas automatically when they have been programmed The SO2R functionality is implemented using its own connector 23 ALC RELAY CAT There are two transceiver inputs IN 1 IN 2 to allow two different transcei
8. The user can either immediately restore the Main Display Page by pressing the DISPLAY key or wait for the visual alarm time out expiration about 10 seconds The following table shows all the system s alarm messages that are recorded in the Alarm History stack Message Description SWR EXCEEDING LIMITS Protection for SWR greater than 3 1 INPUT OVERDRIVING Protection for excessive input power EXCESS OVERHEATING Protection because the internal temperature has exceeded safe limits COMBINER FAULT Protection for unbalanced combiner While the following table shows all the dynamic warning messages that are not recorded in the Alarm History stack Message Description BAND NOT PERMITTED Band not allowed or not set ANTENNA NOT AVAILABLE Antenna not set TX ANTENNA NOT AVAILABLE In the selected band is set only one antenna for reception STEADY OUTPUT POWER Appears when in MAX is transmitted a EXCEEDING LIMITS digital or continuous signal the linear Switches automatically in MID INTERNAL OVERHEATING Appears when the internal temperature reaches 75 C 167 the linear automatically switches to the power level immediately below HIGH SWR ANTENNA TUNING When the antenna SWR is over 3 5 1 the NOT ALLOWED auto tuner is not enabled to operate ATU BYPASS TUNING Since the tuner is bypassed it is not ALLOWED possible any matching nor automatic nor manual
9. each exciter can have different configurations It is possible to use the two different tables when the amplifier operates at two different locations In fact it is possible to use the INPUT 1 at one and INPUT 2 on the other In this way repeated reprogrammings are not needed Furthermore table driven management is useful to inhibit operation of the amplifier for instance when an antenna for a particular band is not available All auto tuner functions remain on standby whilst using the transceiver only Setting of the match data to write to the tables is performed automatically by pressing the TUNE key The system will then find the correct match for minimum SWR To achieve a better match than that achieved with the automatic tune routine most unlikely it is possible to set the tuning manually by using the keys 4 CP 4L L gt When manual tuning has been performed it is possible to read the tuning value the working frequency and the associated sub band on the appropriate screen page Both the types of tuning are always effected in STANDBY state Before beginning the matching process the tuner measures the SWR of the system cable antenna if it is greater than 3 5 1 the procedure does not begin and an alarm is given It is possible to bypass the tuner with a specific command in order to use an external tuner NEVER USE THE INTERNAL TUNER WITH AN EXTERNAL ONE it could seriously damage the linear IF YOU WANT USE
10. A 4 BAND BAND 4C c EHENHESN o 9 Recycle Bin Pag 47 of 47 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA This software allows the same operation that would be when standing in front of the amplifier 15 2 DOWNLOAD The Expert 2K FA allows you to download any new versions of SW from the site www linear amplifier com following easy and intuitive steps Pag 48 of 48 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 16 MAINTENANCE The Expert 2K FA linear amplifier doesn t need internal maintenance because it has a cover without ventilation holes No tube type EHT is used so the high voltages present in tube amplifiers which sometimes attract dirt are not present The user has only to periodically check the cleaning of the air filter on the front panel The frequency of such operation depends how dusty the amplifier location is and how much it is used We recommend monthly cleaning of the filter To clean the filter a Remove the front grid b Remove the filter and clean it with care Reassemble the filter and the grid after having carefullly cleaned the mechanical structure that includes them Note gt check the filter if an unexpected rise of temperature is noticed Note never operate without the filter as dust could be deposited on the surface of the heatsink limiting its ability to cool Note to allow the most efficient heat dissipation large
11. AN EXTERNAL TUNER BEFORE EXCLUDE THE INTERNAL ONE The internal tuner may be excluded Totally For single band For single band only with a specific antenna It s always automatically excluded With the only receiving antenna set With tuneable antenna set Note the tuner like all analog circuits introduces a loss 0 8 dB max that may vary with tuning conditions power meter of the amplifier does not show this loss as the power is measured at the tuner input where the load resistance is always constant 50 ohm Pag 23 of 23 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA Note Note ATTENTION When the amplifier is either in STANDBY or OPERATE mode always disable the automatic tuner in your transceiver ATTENTION As two different tables are used for INPUT1 and INPUTS it is necessary to make separate matching for the same antenna depending on the used input Ignoring this caution could make the amplifier work for a long period with a high SWR and this practice could seriously damage the amplifier even if the protection level is a bit lower than the threshold Pag 24 of 24 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 9 PROTECTIONS ALARMS The SPE EXPERT 2K FA has a sophisticated protection system that constantly controls the amplifiers most important parameters These parameters are Temperature of the heatsink max min voltage on the PA max PA current
12. LOW INPUT POWER TUNING The tuner can not work for low input HALTED power CAN T SWITCH OFF POWER The amplifier does not turn OFF by the HELD BY REMOTE keyboard because it is kept ON by a remote device transceiver or USB port COMBINER OVERHEATING Indicates that the amplifier is going to go into protection for COMBINER FAULT Pag 52 of 52 Issue 2 May 2011 a User manual EXPERT 2K FA 19 TABLE BAND TABLE SUB BAND CENTRAL FREQUENCY SUB BAND 0 1785 1 1795 2 1805 3 1815 4 1825 5 1835 6 1845 7 1855 811865 1 9 1875 11101 1885 11 1895 12 1905 13 1915 14 1925 1 15 1935 16 1945 17 1955 18 1965 19 1975 20 1985 21 1995 22 2005 23 2015 24 3470 25 3490 26 3510 27 3530 28 3550 29 3570 30 3590 31 3610 321 3630 33 3650 34 3670 35 3690 80m 36 3710 37 3730 38 3750 39 3770 40 3790 141 3810 42 3830 43 3850 44 3870 45 3890 46 3910 47 3930 48 3950 49 3970 1150 3990 51 4010 52 4030 53 6963 54 6988 55 7013 56 7038 57 7063 58 7088 40m 59 7113 60 7138 61 7163 1621 7188 63 7213 64 7238 65 7263 66 7288 67 7313 68 7338 30m 69 10075 1 70 10125 71 10175 72 13975 73 14025 74 14075 75 14125 76 14175 77 142
13. Pressing the DISPLAY key will come back immediately to STANDBY without any programming effect 10 1 Ways to operate Pressing the SET key opens the menu page On the display there are the following options a ANTENNA An appropriate antenna may be assigned to each band selecting the ANT 1 ANT 2 ANT 3 ANT 4 ANT 5 ANT 6 connector If you don t have an antenna for a particular band input N Pag 26 of 26 Issue 2 May 2011 a User manual EXPERT 2K FA This setup allows you to preset up to 3 antennas for the same band The selected antennas can be switched using the ANT key while working either in OPERATE or in STANDBY mode If you want for a certain band and for a certain antenna bypass the tuner just press the TUNE key will see a b next to the box To remove the bypass re press Tune b CAT Allows you to program the amplifier to accept control commands from specific transceiver types You may need to refer to your transceiver user manual to ensure that it is correctly programmed to handle such a link SET CAT INTERFACE INFUT 1 KENWOOD ELECRHFT YAESU HOHE EXIT SET INTERFACE LJA Cet SELECT SET 1 CONFIRM Select the brand or function for the proper link see CAT CONNECTIONS on this manual SPE No further programming is necessary all is already programmed for the
14. RXD TC RTS 3 8 CTS 4 12 Vec 9 5 GND DB9 F Pin n Pin name Description 1 BITA BIT A antenna in use 6 BIT B BIT B antenna in use 9 BITC BIT C antenna in use 5 GND GND 2 RXD RS232 port 3 TXD RS232 port 7 RTS RS232 port 8 CTS RS232 port 4 12 Vcc 12 Vcc max Pag 42 of 42 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA When connecting with a control box of a tuneable antenna an appropriate cable should be made StepplR cable EXPERT 2K FA StepplR Control Box PORT connector DATA IN connector DB 9 M DB 9 F Ultrabeam cable EXPERT 2K FA Ultrabeam Control Box PORT connector RS232 connector DB 9 M DB 9 M Note WARNING SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface Note WARNING these types of antennas sometimes need several seconds to be brought to resonance Transmitting with high power whilst the antenna elements are still moving may cause damage to the antenna and the linear To avoid this danger you can use some circuitry that inhibits the PTT during the movement of the motors such as the tuning relays available from the antenna manufacturers This solution is highly recommended Pag 43 of 43 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 14 TRANSCEIVER CONTROLLED WITH A PC If the transceiver is controlled with a PC using the CAT utility the link with the amplifier can be made as described in th
15. SPE transceivers ICOM Set the CI V protocol you also need to choose the baud rate which is usually 9600 KENWOOD You have to choose the baud rate almost always 9600 YAESU If you use the CAT connection read the CAT CONNECTIONS chapter of this manual select the model of the transceiver and than select the baud rate almost always 4800 the model isn t in the list select Band Data read the CAT CONNECTIONS chapter of this manual For new models not listed select FT 2000 9000 or even Kenwood TEN TEC Make the CAT connection read the CONNECTIONS chapter of this manual and follow the menu instructions FLEX RADIO Make the CAT connection read the CAT CONNECTIONS chapter of this manual and follow the menu instructions ELECRAFT Make the CAT connection read the CAT CONNECTIONS chapter of this manual and follow the same indications as for KENWOOD NONE Program when there isn t a link with the Transceiver The amplifier frequency counter will then be used Note if using the CAT check that the baud rate of your transceiver is set to the same value as you program to the amplifier Pag 27 of 27 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA C MANUAL TUNE Allows you to tune the amplifier manually however achieving a better setting than that obtained by automatic tuning is very unlikely MANUAL CHT 21 2r2 MHz SUB BAND
16. SWR reflected power max voltage RF on the tuner input power power combiner balance The protection system is effected in two different ways 1 Through hardware circuits to guarantee minimum intervention time 2 Through software with one of the two CPU s to guarantee the maximum precision The two results are always compared every difference produces a protection trip and consequent alarm There are three types of protections alarms a SIMPLE This is the most common case An acoustic warning beep sounds but no operator intervention is required as the control system automatically restores the correct operating conditions b SERIOUS When automatic system recovery is not possible e g the temperature climbs over the limits due to obstruction of the fans SWR is too high etc In this case the amplifier switches into standby state and the alarm is stored Normally transmission can continue with the exciter only FATAL If the amplifier is in the b situation but one CPU is faulty or it isn t able to operate or some fault appears in the power supply the amplifier is turned OFF with no other warning To restart the amplifier the main switch in the rear panel has to be set first to and then to the I position Note itis possible to read the alarm history in the standby mode using SET and then ALARMS LOG keys to reset the alarm file press TUNE and OPERATE keys together For further details please consult the
17. User manual EXPERT 2K FA RTX SPE BPF1 INPUT 1 INPUT2 ANT2 SPE ANT3 EXPERT 2K FA 4 5 ANTE 2 Contest SO2R In this case the amplifier is connected to two transceivers SPE BPF1 automatically selects the right filters and the right inputs as well RTX1 RTX2 SPE BPF1 INPUT 1 INPUT 2 ANTI ANT2 SPE ANT3 EXPERT 2K FA ANT4 ANTS ANTE AUX SO2R These features can be possible also with the simultaneous use of the unit SPE SO2R1 use the AUX port with a Y cable To ensure the perfect functionality of these options the use of the CATs is recommended Pag 16 of 16 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 4 3 QSK FULL BREAK IN OPERATION The Expert 2K FA allows also QSK FULL BREAK IN operation thanks to the perfect control carried out RX TX switching relays any possibility of hot switching is avoided This feature is compatible with all modern transceivers in fact the minimum delay required before transmission is only 6 5 msec check the manual of the transceiver In the case very remote of minor delay you can use the link TX INH see CAT paragraph or upon purchase ask for optional installation of vacuum relays Kilovac HC1 12 44 REMOTABLE TUNER UNIT SPE RAT1 The Expert 2K FA has inside an automatic tuner ATU system that allows the selection of 6 different antennas and their automatic tuning see TUNER paragraph
18. connect the second transceiver repeat the same connections using the port IN 2 For the ALC RELAY connections use the shielded cable supplied with phono RCA connectors For the CAT connection the cable must be made for the transceiver to be connected This cable may also be made to include ALC RELAY ON OFF read the CONNECTIONS chapter of this manual For all other information about connecting a transceiver please refer to its manual Note Do not use the RELAY and ALC phono connections if they have been implemented in the DB15 CAT connectors Pag 12 of 12 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 4 USE OF THE LINEAR AMPLIFIER Block diagram INPUT 1 INPUT 2 SO2R The position of the contacts as shown in the diagram is the situation of the linear amplifier in OFF state The linear amplifier can be used in the following ways 1 OFF Only two direct connections are actuated between INPUT 1 and ANT 1 between INPUT 2 and SO2R 2 STANDBY functions are activated band change antenna change tuner control but the transmission is from the transceiver only 3 OPERATE the functions are activated and the transmission is using the linear amplifier Note regulation of the exciter s power is automatic through the ALC connection With the ALC connected the amplifier input power in OPERATE mode is reduced to the correct level to drive the amplifier In standby the excit
19. copper parts have been used Pag 49 of 49 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 17 CHARACTERISTICS SPECIFICATIONS The smallest in its class Built in Power supply and Automatic Antenna Tuner Dimension L 38 18 3 P 43 cm 14 96 W 7 20 H 16 93 D connettors included Weight approx 25 Kg 55lbs The most technologically advanced in the world Two powerfull CPUs are used Over 35 000 lines of software for performance that cannot be found in any other amplifier Fully Automatic Easy connection with all models ICOM YAESU KENWOOD TEN TEC FlexRadio ELECRAFT for immediate management of the bands tuner and antennas Same performance with all makes or homemade rigs The operator has only to move the Frequency Tuning in the transceiver Wide frequency coverage 1 8 MHz to 50 MHz including WARC bands Fully solid state Up to 2 KW pep SSB CW out 50 MHz included MAX MID 1KW LOW 500W power selected according to the operator SSB CW power requirement for digital modes and for linear protection automatic No heating time immediately ready Virtually limitless life of the amplification devices 6 MOSFETs MRF151G Automatic Antenna Tuner built in Capable of matching 3 1 SWR on HF and 2 5 1 SWR on 6 meters Capable of programmable switching of 6 antennas SO239 connectors Up to 3 antennas for the same band Management of the StepplR Ultrabeam antennas tune
20. from 1 8 to 54 MHz WARC included completely automatically All operating conditions frequency antenna tuner etc are controlled from your transceiver The operator has only to move the frequency tuning knob on the transceiver It is possible to connect it to every type of device it is extremely user friendly and offers a product which is best in class IMPORTANT Read this instruction manual carefully before attempting to operate the linear amplifier The warranty will be invalidated in the case of non observance of these instructions Keep this manual It contains important safety and operating instructions for the SPE EXPERT 2K FA This manual may be subject to changes and updates therefore please refer always to the updated version available on the website www linear amplifier com If in doubt refer to the English language version Explicit definitions WORD DEFINITION Risk of danger of fire or electric shock to persons WARNING Possible damage to the amplifier NOTE Serious problems if not observed Danger of fire or electric shock for the operator damage to the equipment N WARNING HIGH VOLTAGE DO NOT disconnect an antenna from the amplifier during transmission electric shock or fire is possible LN WARNING DO NOT modify the internal wiring of the amplifier Any modifications will invalidate the warranty and may reduce the performance of the linear amplifier or damage it
21. next paragraphs Note ifthe acoustic alarm is very frequent during transmission the possible causes should be investigated Note before the temperature limits are reached 76 the output power will change from MAX to MID automatically and then possibly from MID to LOW so that transmission with the amplifier may continue with reduced power If the temperature in LOW is allowed to rise further a SERIOUS alarm will eventually be activated and the linear switched in STBY Note during a SERIOUS alarm there is an acoustic alarm for 10 sec Pressing the DISPLAY key the system changes to STANDBY state immediately Note ATTENTION when a FATAL alarm occurs immediately contact your reseller Pag 25 of 25 Issue 2 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 10 PROGRAMMING The three SET 4A V gt keys underlined with an orange line permit programing the amplifier and they can be used in the following way SET Use it to open the menu page to validate the choices and to exit from the menu page 4 V gt Use these to select the options A green led illuminates during the programming process To program the system is very easy You will find your programming choices confirmed by the items shown at the lower part of the display Note programming is only possible in STANDBY mode Note programming changes take effect only after exiting from the menu page the green led turns off
22. second purchase if any Particular agreements between retailer and Purchaser or particular obligations imposed in other countries are matters for the local retailer and not for SPE In the event of dispute Rome s court of competent jurisdiction will apply By purchasing SPE equipment the Purchaser declares his acceptance of the above warranty terms Pag 55 of 55 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA REPAIR FORM CONNECTION STATE AT THE MOMENT OF THE BREAKDOWN TRANSCEIVER CAT CONNECTION YES NO IF YES INDICATE THE ITEM HEADING IN THE USER S IF NO BAND DATA INTERFACE YES ANY LINK YES bites pari wad Sint cab ated Pa und THE ALC WAS CONNECTED YES NO WAS THE DRIVING POWER OF THE TRANSCEIVER SET AT THE MAXIMUM LEVEL YES NO IF NO WHAT POWER OUTPUT WAS 6 ON WHICH BAND DID THE FAULT DID YOU CHANGE BANDS ANTENNA IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THE FAULT HAPPENED n YES NO PLEASE WRITE THE TRANSMISSION MODE SSB CW QSK DIGITAL MODE FM AM FOR HOW LONG BEFORE THE FAILURE DID YOU SWITCH ON THE AMPLIFIER THE AMPLIFIER WAS IN THE LOW MID MAX WHICH WAS THE INPUT USED INPUT 1 INPUT 2 WHICH WAS THE TEMPERATURE OF TH
23. 25 78 14275 79 14325 80 14375 17m 81 18075 82 18125 83 18165 m 84 20975 85 21025 86 21075 87 21125 88 21175 89 21225 90 21275 91 21325 92 21375 93 21425 94 21475 12m 95 24891 96 24963 97 25038 98 28050 99 28150 100 28250 101 28350 102 28450 103 28550 10m 104 28650 105 28750 106 28850 107 28950 108 29050 109 29150 110 29250 111 29350 112 29450 113 29550 114 29650 115 29750 116 49875 117 50125 118 50375 119 50625 120 50875 121 51125 6m 122 51375 123 51625 124 51875 125 52125 126 52375 127 52625 128 52875 129 53125 130 53375 131 53625 132 53875 133 54125 Note sub band Central frequency KHz Pag 53 of 53 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 20 WARRANTY TERMS SPE warrant to the original Purchaser that this product shall be free from defects of materials or workmanship SPE warrant for two 2 years from the date of original purchaser that SPE will provide free of charge all parts and labor necessary to correct defects in material or workmanship The Purchaser has only to pay the shipping expenses for warranty service work Customers should address requests for warranty service work to the Distributor Dealer where they made their purchase As part of their reseller agreement with SPE they are responsible for service support If the Distributor Dealer has clo
24. 3 6 BANDA BAND A 14 BANDE BAND B 70 BAND BAND C 15 BAND D RADIO CONNECTO 0815 M Without the CAT the band is commanded by four digital signals Band A Band B Band C Band D Refer to the specific manual 12 6 TEN TEC FlexRadio ELECRAFT CAT RS232 Interface RX 232 2 10 TXD RX 232 3 4 SND GND 22012 RTS 5 13 CTS 6 14 RADIO CONNECTOR 7 15 8 DB15M the The radio connector may be a DB 9 or DB 25 male connector or female connector read specific manual Verify from the manual if the RTS CTS link is necessary Pag 36 of 36 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA ALC with FLEX RADIO Since this equipment has no an analog ALC input the maximum power limits for the transceiver must be programmed in order to avoid the EXPERT s overdrive protection system intervention These settings have to be done while in OPERATE Mode according to the following For every ham band three settings are allowed storage memories One setting for MAX mode One setting for MID mode One setting for LOW mode The following table shows an overall vision of these settings Band 160m 80m 40m 30m 20m 17m 15m 12m 10m 6m MAX Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset MID Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Pr
25. 56 121 I FH po HLH A Once the correct preset is adjusted go to TX mode RTTY CW to verify the output power ATTENTION It is strongly recommended to start with a low preset value e g 10 and progressively increasing it this is to avoid the linear overdriving The following empty table could be useful as a template for the FlexRadio user s Power Control presettings Band 160m 80m 40m 30m 20m 17m 15m 12m 10m MAX MID LOW 12 7 TRANSCEIVERS OF OTHER BRANDS A special link is not necessary as the internal amplifier frequency counter will measure the input frequency and will control the amplifier Note WARNING SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface Pag 38 of 38 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 13 OTHER CONNECTIONS On the connector in addition to the CAT signals the ALC and RELAY signals are repeated REMOTE ON TX INH TX INH are also available If you use this connector to connect the ALC and RELAY lines separate phono cables are not necessary or it may be possible to turn the amplifier on off by turning on off the transceiver REMOTE ON The following diagram shows how to integrate all transceiver control connections to the DB15 amplifier connector Check the transceiver manual for terminating that end of the cable 13 1 ALC RELAY CONNECTIONS
26. A UNPACKING Remove the packing and carefully check the contents If you find any damage or if there are any parts missing contact your retailer immediately Keep the shipping cartons for future transportation if required Accessories included in the carton a Transport carry bag b 2 cables with RCA phono connectors for ALC RELAY links c 1 USB standard cable d N 3 connectors DB 15 n 1 connector DB 9 e User manual f Spare fuses 1 20A n 1 3 15 A 9 Spare air filter h Certificate of compliance and warranty form R EXPERT 2K FA N K g famis tn AMPLIFICATORE LINEARE N Terre Serie N da CERTIFICATO DI GARANZIA CLIENTE 1 Mots acquitata Amplificatore Lineare Expert 2K FA i 000000001 RIVENDITORE Guida rapida Bpen CUENTE vu Promos anda werd cot metta ante v j gom dala dats d sopito Megsre copia dela coma 04 mar amp 277 Pag 7 of 7 Issue 2 May 2011 022 User manual EXPERT 2K FA 1 PANEL DESCRIPTION 1 4 Front Panel 1 ON 2 OFF 3 DISPLAY 4 POWER 5 OPERATE 6 SET 7 Y 8 9 INPUT 10 4BAND 11 BAND 12 ANT 13 CAT 14 TUNE 15 4C 16 17 4L 18 1 19 TX 20 OP 21 ON 22 SET 23 TUNE 24 ALL 25 DISPLAY Switches betwe
27. Data digital switch of band for YAESU 7 DATAC Bit C of Band Data digital switch of band for YAESU 15 DATAD Bit D of Band Data digital switch of band for YAESU 8 REMOTE ON Applying a voltage from 9 to 15 Vcc turns the amplifier ON Using the above information an appropriate cable for your transceiver s may be constructed or you might wish to order a correctly made up cable when you order your amplifier from your local dealer The amplifier connector is included with the amplifier and the transceiver connector called Radio in the next diagram is usually supplied with the transceiver For connections to the Radio connector refer to the transceiver operating manual Pag 32 of 32 Issue 2 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 12 2 SPE In the case of SPE transceivers it isn t necessary to make a cable because it is supplied with the transceiver 12 3 ICOM Interface 9 10 RALL l 2 RADIO CONNECTOR 21 10 4 7 GND 12 50 13 6 14 S RT 7 CAT DB15 PLUG STEREO 144 Pin10 RX TTL T 15 ae 5 8 DB15M This interface is standard for all the Icom models equipped with CAT the cable always terminates to a 3 5 mm mono plug It is possible the use of one stereo plug according with the fig Pag 33 of 33 Issue 2 May 2011 a User manual EXPERT 2K FA 12 4 KENWOOD CAT RS232 Interface 14 9 20 10 3C 11 C 4 12 5 0 13 gt 6 7 15
28. E AMPLIFIER 2 WHAT FAULT INFORMATION WAS DISPLAYED ON THE LCD WHICH WAS THE MAINS VOLTAGE AT THE MOMENT OF THE Pag 56 of 56 Issue 2 May 2011 a User manual EXPERT 2K FA SPE s r Via di Monteverde 33 00152 Rome Italy Tel 390658209429 Fax 390658209647 E mail info linear amplifier com Website http www linear amplifier com Pag 57 of 57 Issue 2 May 2011
29. ENWOOD INTERFACE KENWOOD RADIO CONNECTOR 1 9 3i 4 9 5 5 RX TTL TX TTL m Pig tis GND 1 12 9 8 34 g 13 6 TTL INTERFACE 14 15 PC 8 DB15M Pag 45 of 45 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 14 4 5V TTL YAESU INTERFACE YAESU RADIO CONNECTOR 1 2 8 x 5 RX TTL 10 iem 3 1 4 GND 12 5 43 6 TTL INTERFACE 4 7 15 PC 8 DB15M Note WARNING SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface Pag 46 of 46 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 15 USE OF THE USB PORT Through the USB port on the rear panel it is possibile to interface the amplifier with a PC Two features are possible a To remote the linear b To download the successive versions of SW From the website www linear amplifier com you can download these programs 15 14 REMOTE CONTROL The software provided allows us to represent two separate windows The first provides an exact copy of the display it is adjustable in size to fit any needs on the control screen The second provides a copy of the keyboard when not in use it may disappear to make space on that screen T Term 2K Rev 12 11 10 A File View Help ema 1208 1866 4 FH OUT lt 2155 H Per 28 59 3
30. TI 33 124 JJKENWOOD terere edet e te er chr re te net et n ee tee Dern ee Lo va tre aae dae 34 R9232 1 Ene rer ee e Y eps arare deas 34 CAT 9V Intera ea 34 4125 YAESU 35 CAT RS232 Interface eo o Rene ene eoe 35 CAT 5V aree eee ex 2d o eene a ee ds Dee sve 35 BAND DATA nterface 5 1 e rece p eee Da ex eve east lae dnd eve deus 36 12 6 TEN TEC FlexRadio 2 2 4040000000 0 36 5232 1 eto neci eee eee ae eon Den 36 ALG with cete 37 12 7 TRANSCEIVERS OF OTHER 38 13 OTHER CONNECTIONS innne Dee 39 13 1 RELAY CONNECTIONS 2 5224 toto tracer ena van vend 39 13 2 REMOTE 4 39 13 3 CONNECTIONS TX INH 40 13 4 AVX COnFGClOR xii
31. The SPE allows to remote such ATU bringing to a more convenient location roof towers etc using a single coaxial cable no other cable is required The length depends only on RF cable attenuation You get the following benefits A single cable between the amplifier and antennas Cable always perfectly matched and hence lower losses ATU closer to the antenna Drastic reduction in the number of cables that stem from the shack and hence money saved The SPE RAT1 is provided in a water proof container the procedure of installation is very simple Remove the ATU unit from the linear Install in its place the new unit included in the option Install the ATU in the water proof container Connect with a coaxial cable the unit replaced with the SPE RAT1 Following these simple steps explained in detail it is possible to have remotely the same features as if the ATU is still inside the linear 45 TUNEABLE ANTENNAS CONTROL The use of tuneable antennas StepplR Ultrabeam is becoming popular These antennas vary the physical dimensions of the elements in accordance with the operating frequency to guarantee always a perfect resonance The Expert 2K FA through the dedicated connector PORT connected to the antenna controller allows their automatic control following the tuning knob This dedicated link allows the following advantages Simplification of wiring the difficulty of adding an additional
32. WARNING Before using the linear amplifier compare the value of voltage of the local mains supply network with the value required by the amplifier A WARNING DO NOT turn ON the linear amplifier unless it has been properly grounded through the green yellow conductor of the mains cord Your dealer will already have provided the Pag 4 of 4 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA correct mains plug for your local electricity network with the earth pin connected to that conductor Do not disconnect this under any circumstances or there is a risk of severe or fatal electric shock WARNING DO NOT use an extension cord with the AC power cable as if it is not correctly rated there is a risk of fire or electric shock WARNING DO NOT allow metallic objects or wires to enter inside the amplifier WARNING DO NOT obstruct the entries for cooling air at both the sides of the amplifier Ensure that no object impedes the correct operation of the fans WARNING DO NOT expose the linear amplifier to rain snow or any liquids WARNING DO NOT instal the linear amplifier in a place without good ventilation This could limit heat dissipation and the amplifier could be damaged WARNING DO NOT touch the amplifier with damp or wet hands There is danger of electric shock Avoid opening it before you have disconnected it from the mains supply then wait at least 2 minutes for electrolytic capacitors to complet
33. able Measure also the SWR of the antenna cable system Bands Antennas Tuning conditions are changed in 10 msec Bands Antennas and Tuning conditions are managed also in STBY to support the exciter only Max attenuation 0 8 dB Bypass capability Remotable option SO2R Two inputs available 50239 connectors High power gain up to 14 5 dB In OPERATE the required drive power is automatically set with ALC connection and in STANDBY the exciter is then automatically reset to full power Pag 50 of 50 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA Very clean and low distortion output Spurious emissions less than 60 dB 50 MHz 65 3rd order distortion two tone test 36 dB typ Input 50 ohm always perfectly matched SWR less than 1 2 1 Fully protected Temperature Over Voltage Over Current SWR Reflected Power Max RF Tuner Voltage Over Drive Amp The correct parameters are continuously monitored The same protection is realized in two different ways Via hardware circuits HW to assure great speed Via the software SW to assure great accuracy Thanks to the SW transmit relay changeover is carried out with zero current at the contacts Full break in operation QSK Quiet operation Linear management of the speed of the cooling fans of the heatsink In the power supply fans speed is reduced during the reception Since considering the big power developed a s
34. as are programmed exit and go back to STANDBY b Set CAT Press SET and enter the CAT menu page Select the transceiver brand and progress with programming according to the type of connection between the amplifier and the transceiver read the CONNECTIONS chapter of this manual At the end of programming exit and go back in STANDBY To verify the correctness of programming press the CAT key and all the data stored will appear on the display To verify the correct CAT operation press SET and select MANUAL TUNE While changing your transceiver VFO you should see the amplifier frequency display follow If set to None transmitting briefly in RTTY or continuous key down CW you must read the top left transmitted frequency Then return to STANDBY Pag 29 of 29 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA In the same way if BAND is connected check that the amplifier follows band changes at the transceiver If it does not verify that your programming or your link has been done correctly C Use of Automatic Tuner To complete the programming it is necessary to match the antennas to the amplifier by operating TUNE read the TUNER chapter of this manual We recommend you to select each band with available antenna and then program the tuner for the sub bands within which you will operate Refer to the table in section 19 of this manual to select the appropriate sub bands for you
35. avy duty cycle you should not operate in MAX but only in MID and LOW An appropriate SW ensures this requirement d AM This transmission mode radiates a continuous carrier which is 2596 of its Note Note Note value e g 400W AM 100W carrier power SPE recommends you always operate in MID or LOW mode for AM To get an output signal without distortion proceed as follows transmit the AM carrier only with your transceiver MIC GAIN set to zero set the transceiver without exceeding 2596 of the maximum carrier output from the amplifier Then speaking into the microphone normally set the MIC GAIN of the transceiver until the peak output power on speech peaks as shown on the amplifier display is no more than 1 KW or 500W SPE suggests you monitor your transmission to check that the MIC GAIN setting is correct if you choose to set the output power of the amplifier by varying the output power of the transceiver the ALC connection is not strictly required In this case we must be careful not to overdrive the amplifier to avoid distortion and broadening of the channel with the ALC the adjustment is automatic for maximum linearity and Pout All functionalities remain the same protections included the only feature that is less is the return to full power to the transceiver when it returns to STANDBY ATTENTION never stress the amplifier with long periods in key down transmission as this can s
36. ce reete riso ket E canne thee gend 17 4 4 REMOTABLE TUNER UNIT SPE 0000000 0 17 4 5 TUNEABLE ANTENNAS 0000000 0 17 4 6 SETTING UP A SINGLE ANTENNA FOR RECEPTION 19 5 EXTERNAL GROUND CONNECTION 1 eee Ren ns 20 6 ANTENNA E 21 T POWER SUPPLY 2 b rne uer cete dee e Deere cete desde 22 8 TUNER rte tient ete maia 23 9 PROTECTIONS Lon rene deese ERE EUR 25 10 eere rtg H 26 10 1 Ways to operate eerta eode ede eel ele pede detecta et etd 26 11 INITIAL OPERATION OF THE 1 11 nnne 29 11 1 Initial 29 oru ER 30 Setting Drive 31 12 dee rero eet tale deter 32 12 1 exe 32 11257 MEE SU 33 I3 610 EC 33 Intera CE
37. e danger of using the same antenna for RTX1 and 2 A careful design is needed to avoid such a danger which could be devastating for the receivers This possibility is available with the optional external unit SPE SO2R1 according to the following diagram Pag 14 of 14 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA RTX1 RTX2 INPUT 1 INPUT 2 1 2 ANT3 EXPERT 2K FA 5 SO2R AUX The unit is controlled and powered from the AUX port Note the isolation between the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna must be very high and therefore very well planned Locating the antennas at some distance from each other and using appropriate band pass filters will help to achieve this However SPE is not responsible for any damage caused to equipment 42 BAND PASS FILTERS SET SPE BPF1 To increase the isolation between the transmitting and the receiving antenna SPE offers the optional unit SPE BPF1 which must be placed between RTX1 RTX2 and linear The unit is controlled and powered from the AUX port The unit automatically enables the following features a DXpetition Contest Multi Multi In this case the amplifier is connected to a single transceiver INPUT 1 2 SPE BPF1 automatically selects the filter on the band to be used in the input where the transceiver is connected while the other unrelated input is unused Pag 15 of 15 Issue 2 2011 e
38. e following paragraphs Note BEWARE SPE assures only the direct connection between the Linear and the Transceiver The use of external control software could create malfunctions that must be resolved by the provider of such software 14 1 ICOM CI V INTERFACE DB15F 5 ICOM LINEAR RADIO CONNECTOR lt lt CI V INTERFACE CT 17 The plug from the amplifier has to be connected to a CI V port of the CT17 or similar device The transceiver has to be connected to another port The following types of connections are common for Kenwood Yaesu TEN TEC FlexRadio and ELECRAFT links DB 15 connector side of the amplifier remain the same On the opposite side of the cable is necessary to connect only GND and RX 232 RX TTL to the cable PC Radio In this way the interrogation to the transceiver is no longer made by the linear but is made by the PC the linear analyzes just the data exchanged DO NOT CONNECT TX 232 TX TTL of the linear the connection does not work because it would create conflict in the SW and could damage the hardware as well see following fig Pag 44 of 44 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 14 2 RS232 INTERFACE BEEN RADIO CONNECTOR 28 RS232 RX 232 T 22 at 10 3 RS232 Mc i GND 5 PC CONNECTOR 12 5 13 6 14 zi 15 8 0815 14 3 5V TTL K
39. e their discharge To clean the amplifier DO NOT use chemical agents like alcohol or benzene because the plastic surfaces could be damaged AVOID using the amplifier in areas with temperatures below 10 C 14 F or above 40 C 104 AVOID using the linear amplifier in locations that are very dusty damp or in direct sunlight AVOID placing the linear amplifier against walls the circulation of the air would be obstructed and the noise of the fans would be reflected toward the operator AVOID permitting children to play with the amplifier If you do not use the linear amplifier for long time set the back main switch I O to the OFF position O Pag 5 of 5 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA Information for Users on Collection and Disposal of Old Equipment and used Batteries These symbols on the products packaging and or accompanying documents mean that used electrical and electronic products and batteries should not be mixed with general household waste For proper treatment recovery and recycling of old products and used batteries please take them to applicable collection points in accordance with your national legislation This amplifier should only be operated by persons who have an appropriate radio transmitting licence You should observe your licence conditions whilst using it in accordance with national legislation Pag 6 of 6 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K F
40. ecessary to notify SPE of the following data e Document for the second purchase used e Invoice for the original purchase e Serial number s n of equipment Replacement of equipment in these circumstances is not an option In any case the warranty period shall be two 2 years from the original purchase and not from any subsequent purchase Whenever the date of first sale is not well specified or is greater than one year from the date of the shipping from SPE to the Distributor Dealer the date of shipping from SPE to the Distributor Dealer will be considered the start of the warranty period The warranty does not apply either if the certificate of the first purchase invoice is missing the s n is undecipherable falsified or to any defect that SPE determines is due to Pag 54 of 54 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 1 Improper maintenance or repair by persons not authorised by SPE to carry out such work including the installation of parts or accessories that do not conform to the quality and specifications of the original parts 2 Misuse abuse neglect or improper installation user s manual non observance 3 Carelessness accidental or intentional damage SPE warrants aforesaid items only and the Purchaser shall have no remedy and no claim for incidental or consequential damages It is mandatory when sending SPE equipment to be repaired to enclose Invoice of the original purchase Document of the
41. en display pages switches output power from MAX MID LOW switches between Standby Operate used to program the amplifier used to program the amplifier used to program the amplifier selects one of the two inputs of the amplifier switches bands manually downward in frequency switches bands manually upward in frequency switches the antennas for every single band shows the current CAT interface setting starts the automatic tuning process used for manual tuning used for manual tuning used for manual tuning used for manual tuning red led illuminates during transmission yellow led illuminates when the amplifier is in Operate state green led illuminates when the amplifier is green led illuminates during programming yellow led illuminates during tuning red led illuminates when there is an alarm 26 AIRFLOW GRID Pag 8 of 8 Issue 2 May 2011 022 User manual EXPERT 2K FA 1 2 Rear Panel 1 ANT 2 SO2R 3 INPUT 4 FANS 5 IN 1 6 IN 2 7 PORT 8 PORT 9 PORT 10 ON 11 FUSE 1 12 FUSE 2 13 AC 14 GND connectors for six possible antennas connector for SO2R operations connectors to connect two exciters ALC RELAY CAT connectors for exciter 1 ALC RELAY CAT connectors for exciter 2 PORT USB AUX main switch PA unit 20A electronic unit 3 15A mains power cable ground connector Pag 9 of 9 Issue 2
42. er will give the output power as set by its POWER OUTPUT control Without the connection you have to manually regulate the exciter power to drive the amplifier correctly Pag 13 of 13 Issue 2 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 41 SO2R Single Operator Two Radio RTX1 RTX2 INPUT 1 INPUT 2 ANT2 SO2R SPE ANT3 EXPERT 2K FA 5 ANTE MULTIBAND ANTENNA TRANSMITTING ANTENNAS This kind of operation is used during a contest in order to acquire as quickly as possible a new multiplier The following connections are needed see the diagram 1 INPUT 1 connected to the first transceiver RTX1 2 2 connected to the second transceiver RTX2 3 ANT 1 2 3 4 5 6 connected to the available antennas set 4 SO2R connected to a multi band antenna The operating mode could be the following If you are operating using RTX1 on a given band e g 20 m the correct antenna ANT 1 2 3 4 5 6 is automatically selected while RTX2 is connected to the multi band antenna in RX mode on another band If when operating on 20 m a multiplier of interest is heard on RTX2 e g 40 m the only action needed is to push the PTT2 in order to connect RTX2 to the 40 m antenna while RTX1 will be switched to the multiband antenna in order to receive the 20 m band In place of the multiband antenna one of the antennas ANT 1 2 3 4 5 6 can be used in such a case all of them must be monoband to avoid th
43. eset Preset Preset Mid Mid Mid Mid Mid Mid Mid Mid Mid Mid LOW Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Preset Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low The user has to set for every band of interest the power limit concerning the input power needed to do that using the keyboard he must set a report value having the format PC xxx where xxx is a numerical value having a range from 000 to 100 which represents the transceiver s power output expressed in percentage This value will appear just over the BAND label of the Status Bar This value is relative to the tuned band and to the selected power mode In the following picture is shown as an example Power Control in 20 m band and in MAX power mode HB 1221 1968 2488 PA OUT L 58 48 z8 8 BH Per 8 1 Pressing the arrow keys 4 WP this value can be decremented incremented until it reaches the requested value at the operation completion a time out period about 3 seconds must be awaited for the PC xxx indication to expire to permit another adjustment to be made Pag 37 of 37 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA In the following picture can be seen as an example the Power Control setting relative to the same band 20 m but using the LOW mode selection instead HB 1560 4
44. ignificant amount of heat must be removed every precaution is used to keep the lowest possible the noise of the fans Continuous use MAX mode SSB CW unlimited Automatically switches to MID for a while if in MAX a continuous signal RTTY is transmitted MID LOW modes RTTY unlimited Switching power supply Continous input between 190 255 Vac 47 63 Hz PFC Power Factor Correction The linear can be switched ON OFF also switching ON OFF the exciter Fully remotable With a large LCD display is possible to have a great deal of information W pep out V Power gain Temperatures SWR after and before the ATU Input setting CAT setting Band and other indications including an alarms log Easy to operate Powerful SW gives you a user friendly unit USB port For remote control For new SW releases download Easy transportation A sturdy carry bag is supplied for QSY FIELD DAY DX PEDITIONS Certifications CE FCC N B These specifications are subject to change without notice Pag 51 of 51 Issue 2 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 18 DIAGNOSTICS During normal working the system performs a continuous monitoring of some measurements directly acquired from certain internal test points When a dangerous situation is going to happen a serious alarm message is raised and the working mode is switched from OPERATE to STANDBY
45. is matched but with a high VSWR the cable is mismatched and there can be consequent loss of power heating and high voltages present Always operate with the best possible matching because despite the amplifier s protection against high SWR continuous use into a mismatched load a bit lower than the protection threshold may lead to damage It is suggested that suitable static protection be given to antenna feeder cables The software allows you to select up to three antennas for the same band Pag 21 of 21 Issue 2 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 7 POWERSUPPLY PSU The power supply of the SPE Expert 2K FA unique in its category is switching with a PFC Power Factor Correction that allows a drastic reduction of the harmonic components in the mains in accordance with IEC555 2 it consists of two separate elements The first powers all the electronic circuits for command and control The second powers only the PA its output voltages are 48 Vdc MAX Pout 35 VDC MID Pout and 30 Vdc LOW Pout This design was adopted as it provides maximum efficiency and therefore less heat to dissipate The power supply meets the followings rules UL60950 1 TUV EN60950 1 EN55022 EN61000 3 2 3 EN61000 4 2 3 4 5 6 8 11 ENV50204 EN5502 Since the amplifier is sold all over the world the power cord does not come with any mains plug Normally your SPE distributor will fit the plug appropriate to your domestic supply network
46. nd have a poor quality transmission During transmission check the parameters on the display always because SPE has selected designed and adjusted them with care SPE recommends using the ALC link that the transceiver should be set to its maximum output power the ALC will reduce the driving power to the optimum driving level To reduce the linear output if required it is then necessary only to set the amplifier to MID or LOW with the POWER key Of course you may also regulate continuously the amplifier output power by changing the level of drive power from your transceiver also with the ALC connected Pag 30 of 30 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA If less output power than 1KW 500 Watts is desired it is preferable for best efficiency to start to reduce drive from the MID or LOW power state Setting Drive Levels a SSB Regulate the MIC GAIN of the transceiver until speaking normally into the microphone the signal peaks on the display don t quite reach the maximum rated output power Monitoring the transmission is a good way of checking your settings If there is however some distortion decrease the mic gain or decrease the power of the transceiver until a small reduction of the output power of the amplifier is seen b CW In key down you get the maximum output power automatically C RTTY Digital modes SSTV FM Because all of these types of transmissions have a very he
47. om the transceiver Automatic management of bands antennas and tuner can be done in the following way a b Note Note In all recent transceivers through CAT connection HIGHLY RECOMMENDED In the YAESU models not listed or without CAT through BAND DATA Configurations a and b are recommended In older radios which do not have CAT or BAND DATA through the internal frequency counter in case c the CAT link with the transceiver is not needed because the frequency is detected from the transmitted signal FOR THIS REASON BECAUSE OF THE HIGH POWER IN USE IN ORDER TO NOT DAMAGE THE LINEAR WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND YOU CHANGE BAND WITH THE LINEAR IN STANDBY MODE USE THE CONDITION c ONLY IF CONDITIONS a OR b ARE IMPRATICABLE in some transceivers the RELAY and CAT signals are activated by menu selection refer in this case to their user s manuals Pag 11 of 11 Issue 2 2011 me User manual EXPERT 2K FA 3 INTERCONNECTION WITH THE TRANSCEIVER MULTIBANDA TRANSCEIVER VEDI MANUALE gue gue 0 o AGIAYE ANCE 9 Ji 6 o S 3 ALIMENTAZIONE 190 255 The diagram shows the connections with one transceiver only To
48. ox BOX BO xad BO XS BO XB In this case you need to connect the unit control box outputs 1 2 3 4 5 6 in accordance respectively with the antennas ANT 1 2 3 4 5 6 For the selection of antennas refer to the TUN in the menu The Protocol used is Kenwood the communication speed is settable 4 6 SETTING UP A SINGLE ANTENNA FOR RECEPTION In some cases it may be appropriate to transmit with an antenna and receive with a more appropriate one A unique feature allows the Expert 2K FA to set a receiving antenna and to provide an its automatic switching after transmission For the selection of this antenna refer to the menu item RX ANT The antenna number selected will appear close to an r eg 3r Because with linear OFF the INPUT71 is directly connected to ANT1 the selection of ANT1 is not permitted to avoid some possible danger to the transceiver if only a receiving antenna eg beverage is connected Pag 19 of 19 Issue 2 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 5 EXTERNAL GROUND CONNECTION WARNING Before connecting an external ground as described below check with a qualified electrician that your national wiring codes permit such a connection To reduce TVI BCI and other RF problems it is sometimes helpful to connect the amplifier to a good RF ground The inductance of such a connection has to be low so the connection to ground should be as short and direct as possible Large section copper conducto
49. prior to purchase Should it be necessary to rewire the plug due to relocation in a different country please seek advice from a qualified electrician To apply the plug 20 A minimum proceed according with the following fig blue white green rown black You should observe all precautions in accordance with national legislation The amplifier is supplied to a power supply that automatically adapts between 190 and 255 Vac 47 63 Hz In case of FATAL alarm the power supply is blocked to restore the linear set OFF for about 30 seconds via the rear switch then back ON In order to reduce the noise in Operate the speed of the fans is increased only during the transmission time while in standby they are stopped Pag 22 of 22 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 8 TUNER ATU The amplifier has an automatic tuner that handles load mismatches up to 3 1 VSWR 2 5 1 for 6 m The amplifier contains a look up table with all the permitted bands For tuner management antenna data and other working data are stored Every band has a sub band set and for each of those data related to the antenna and auto ATU tuning is stored The CAT and the frequency counter detect the operating frequency and the correct sub band Thanks to the stored data the tuner and the antenna are automatically set correctly For every input there is a different table If two exciters are connected at the same time
50. r operating preferences You are strongly advised to proceed with the utmost accuracy not just match the current frequency but all the sub bands you are likely to use Matching all the antennas on all bands available you will enjoy all the features of the automatic linear Progress as follows 1 Find the central frequency of the sub band to tune in the table refer to section 19 of this manual and set the transceiver to that frequency 2 Set your transceiver to transmit a continuous tone in RTTY or CW 3 Press and hold the TUNE key for about one second The procedure for automatic tuning will start you will hear the ATU relays operate and then it will stop when SWR is at a minimum Sometimes it is possible to improve tuning by pressing the TUNE key again 4 Repeat the previous steps for all bands and sub bands you want 5 Repeat the previous steps for other antennas the same band after having selected it using the ANT key Note ifthe link is not used it is preferable to reduce the transceiver power to about 50 Watts during this operation The initial programming concludes after steps a b c Operating You need few precautions when using the amplifier thanks its high level of automation ALC and CAT links are highly recommended If ALC is not used SPE reminds you that it is better to lose a fraction of dB in transmitted power by slightly reducing the drive power than to over drive the amplifier a
51. rs should be used for this purpose Terminating the earth connection with a small metal plate is suggested The best solution is to have a ground stake driven into the ground and used only for the radio station Often good results can be acheived using correct earthing clamps connected to the mains water supply pipe attention most water pipes are now in plastic DO NOT use central heating pipework AVOID the electric circuit ground of the building to be used for 50 60 Hz safety only A WARNING DO NOT connect to gas pipes because there is danger of explosion Pag 20 of 20 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 6 ANTENNA Because this is a high power amplifier it is necessary to use correctly rated antennas connectors and feedline cables Take special care with antennas using baluns traps because balun trap warming can occur during periods of high power transmission and a high SWR can result This dangerous situation is often not perceived by the operator because normally a measure of SWR is made when balun and antenna are not under stress A unique feature of this linear is that it not only measures the SWR after the matching but also the SWR of the system antenna cable this allows to always evaluate your antenna system despite the matching and the power applied Always use antennas with SWR less than 2 1 even if the tuner is able to overcome some mismatches greater than 3 1 With the tuner the PA
52. sed down or when the Purchaser moves into another area SPE will be directly responsible for warranty service at their factory in Rome The shipping expenses to and from SPE will then be paid by the customer Any repair requests to other dealers will be subject to specific direct negotiations between the customer and the dealer In order to not invalidate the warranty service the original Purchaser must complete the warranty registration card and send it to SPE no more than 30 days from the date of purchase Unless otherwise agreed the products will be delivered ex works from the factory of the seller The delivery even in the event of a return for repair is understood done with the delivery of the goods to the carrier specified by the purchaser or failing that to the carrier chosen by SPE The products will travel at the risk of the purchaser even if at the request of the same one or for other causes SPE should carry out transport or choose the carrier If the original Purchaser finds some defects after having received the equipment he must immediately notify the Distrubutor Dealer of the defects found by sending the properly filled in REPAIR FORM Replacement of may be done by SPE in exceptional circumstances and at SPE s complete discretion In any case no replacement will be provided if more than the twentieth day after delivery has passed In case of a purchase of a used equipment in order to retain the warranty s validity it is n
53. tress the amplifier components An appropriate SW avoids transmitting a continuous signal in the MAX condition for a long time by switching to MID in SSB the use of the compressor is recommended only when necessary this strongly reduces the temperature increase Pag 31 of 31 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA 12 CONNECTIONS 12 1 CAT Connector In this diagram the rear panel CAT connector and pinouts are shown If you have already used our 1K FA amplifier you will note the connections are the same 1O RX 232 9 O 232 2 TX INH 10 O RXTTL aC TXTTL 11 TTL 40 ND 12 O RELAY 5 O ALC 13 Q TX INH 6 BAND 14 O BAND B BAND DATA 7 BAND 15 O BAND D 8 Q REMOTE ON DB15F pin n pin name Description 1 RX 232 Used on KENWOOD and YAESU transceivers for the link with a RS 9 TX 232 232 connection 2 TX INH Open collector normally off stops transmission when gnd on 10 RX TTL Used on Icom KENWOOD and YAESU transceivers for the CAT 5V 3 TX TTL TTL connection 11 KEN TTL Connect to GND if CAT 5V TTL KENWOOD connection 4 GND Signal ground 12 RELAY Connected in parallel with the RCA phono RELAY connector 5 ALC Connected in parallel with the RCA phono ALC connector 13 TX INH Normally to gnd 550 ohm stops transmission when 12V 6 DATAA Bit A of Band Data digital switch of band for YAESU 14 DATAB Bit B of Band
54. ual EXPERT 2K FA TX INH Link TX IHHBIT RADIO CONNECTOR Note WARNING SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface 13 4 AUX Connector This connector provides data on the bandwidth currently used in the two INPUT indicating which input is connected to the antenna ANT 1 2 3 4 5 6 and which is connected to the SO2R In this way you can know which of the two transceivers is currently connected to the output antenna set and when it is in transmission Pin n Pin name Description 3 BIT A1 BITA INPUT 1 5 BIT B1 BITB INPUT 1 7 1 BITC INPUT 1 9 BIT D1 BITD INPUT 1 11 EN 1 INPUT 1 0 not connected with ANT 1 connected with ANT 13 RLY 1 INPUT 1 0 TX state 1 RXstate 1 GND GND 4 BIT A2 INPUT 2 6 BIT B2 BITB INPUT 2 8 BIT C2 BITC INPUT2 10 BIT D2 BITD INPUT2 12 2 INPUT 2 0 not connected with ANT 1 connected with 14 RLY 2 INPUT2 0 TX state 1 RXstate 2 GND GND 15 12 Vcc OUT 12 1 max Each output is open collector Pag 41 of 41 Issue 2 May 2011 User manual EXPERT 2K FA Note WARNING SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface 13 5 PORT Connector This connector provides a Data about the ANT port in use each output is open collector b RS 232 port for connection to a controller of a tuneable antenna 10 BTA 6 20
55. vers to be connected at the same time ALC is a voltage 0 11 Vcc generated by the amplifier it is used to control the output power of the transceiver max in STANDBY the required in In this the power from may be automatically regulated If the ALC port is not connected it is necessary to manually regulate the drive power from the transceiver This link is highly recommended RELAY This essential link allows the amplifier to be put in the transmit state To do that it is necessary that the inner pin of the phono connector is connected to signal ground This is normally done at the transceiver with either a close on ground relay or with a switching transistor It is important that the voltages at that terminal do not exceed 12 Vdc On the transceiver this link is often called SEND or TX GND Refer to your transceiver manual for more details Pag 10 of 10 Issue 2 May 2011 a User manual EXPERT 2K FA CAT This link is highly recommended Thanks to this link the linear amplifier will detect while in receive mode the operating frequency of the transceiver and then automatically control changes of band antenna and automatic antenna tuner Most modern transceivers have CAT control In old models often analog or digital information are sent for changing band The SPE Expert 2K FA thanks to an efficient frequency counter constantly controls and verifies data coming fr
56. wiring to CAT input is removed Compatibility with all types of CAT the Expert 2K FA converts the CAT protocol so two different transceivers CATs can be used simultaneously with the same controller Thanks to the frequency counter inside the linear the antenna can be controlled also without the use of CAT Pag 17 of 17 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA All of the automatic features of the linear are retained even in the most complex configurations antennas of all kinds can be connected to the connectors ANT the Expert 2K FA will choose the antennas according to the set up and will manage them according to their characteristics The CAT is recommended if the transceiver does not have the CAT or if has only the Band Data the Expert 2K FA will continue to drive the antenna with the frequency measured by the counter data collected after the first transmission Up to 6 tuneable antennas can be controlled through their own controller The simplest configuration is a single tuneable antenna according to the following diagram SPE EXPERT 2K FA CONTROL BOX The link is unique for any position ANT 1 2 3 4 5 6 you want use Pag 18 of 18 Issue 2 May 2011 e User manual EXPERT 2K FA If you have several tuneable antennas up to 6 and their controllers the optional unit SPE CBU1 is needed according to the following diagram Control Control Control control Control control BOX B
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