FCC rules that 1,500 watts is the output power limit. 1,700 watts didn't seem to bother Steve, however I think this amplifier was not properly tuned, because the output power of this amplifier is rated at approximately 1,200 watts SSB maximum. I've driven mine to get 1,400 watts out, but only for a short time, since I don't like replacing tubes and components. It's easy to get caught up in wattage and power output with powerful amplifiers, however more wattage doesn't always equal a better signal. To increase wattage by only 3 dB you have to double your output power, which correlates to only 1 "S" Unit on the listener's receiver. You will do better by enhancing your audio quality using compression, or EQ your audio for a narrower sound as is used in contesting. Using half the wattage out, you will get a more listenable result by increasing your audio output sharpness and punch.
I agree with Lou P below! I put a stby switch in mine that broke the relay path so it would not transmit when keyed. That mod is NOT a good idea!!! The 160m mod is though.
That is not the typical stand-by switch one would identify with. That switch you have there is putting operating bias on the tubes. I'll assume that the antenna relay is engaged since that is what operates the operating bias on the tubes in transmit. Therefore I would not really call that a "stand-by" switch . It is more properly called a transmit/receive switch or as you would see on a radio a MOX switch. The caveat here is when you were not transmitting and chatting away, the tubes were dissipating unnecessary heat. A real stand by switch only stops the activation of the antenna relay in the amp when the radio tries to turn the amp on. This is so you can run "barefoot" without turning the amplifier off. Also I think you should calibrate your watt meter it seems to be way off.
A thing of beauty, from when radio was still an art form. kd9oam
How in the world are you getting that much power out? Does she have an upgraded HV transformer? I have new tubes and I don’t get that much power
it is beautiful. im trying to buy one!
FCC rules that 1,500 watts is the output power limit. 1,700 watts didn't seem to bother Steve, however I think this amplifier was not properly tuned, because the output power of this amplifier is rated at approximately 1,200 watts SSB maximum. I've driven mine to get 1,400 watts out, but only for a short time, since I don't like replacing tubes and components. It's easy to get caught up in wattage and power output with powerful amplifiers, however more wattage
doesn't always equal a better signal. To increase wattage by only 3 dB you have to double your output power, which correlates to only 1 "S" Unit on the listener's receiver. You will do better by enhancing your audio quality using compression, or EQ your audio for a narrower sound as is used in contesting. Using half the wattage out, you will get a more listenable result by increasing your audio output sharpness and punch.
I agree with Lou P below! I put a stby switch in mine that broke the relay path so it would not transmit when keyed. That mod is NOT a good idea!!! The 160m mod is though.
That is not the typical stand-by switch one would identify with. That switch you have there is putting operating bias on the tubes. I'll assume that the antenna relay is engaged since that is what operates the operating bias on the tubes in transmit. Therefore I would not really call that a "stand-by" switch . It is more properly called a transmit/receive switch or as you would see on a radio a MOX switch. The caveat here is when you were not transmitting and chatting away, the tubes were dissipating unnecessary heat. A real stand by switch only stops the activation of the antenna relay in the amp when the radio tries to turn the amp on. This is so you can run "barefoot" without turning the amplifier off. Also I think you should calibrate your watt meter it seems to be way off.
Ya sure it not a 220..good amp I have 200 running 576-B tubes .and SB220 running 2× 3-500zg have a great day
Steve,
Do you have anymore info on the WB3CUY 160m kit? Couldn't find any info on the net.
Don
WB3BJU
+Donald D'Egidio
Sorry but I haven't heard of him.
+Steve Ellington You bought it with all the mods?
Don
WB3BJU
+Donald D'Egidio yes
Whafa different compared to the 220
Haha I made your efhw and look at buying the same amp
Add a totally unnecessary switch and then forget to turn it off. NOT a safe idea!