Acom 2100 Users Manual

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Exhibit 6: User’s Manual

External Radio Frequency

Power Amplifier ACOM 2100

Model 2100

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Table of Contents

1. GENERAL INFORMATION ................................................................................ …3

1-1.Introduction and Description ................................................................................... 3

1-2. Owner Assistance .................................................................................................. 3

1-3. Equipment Supplied ............................................................................................... 3

1-4. Features ................................................................................................................. 3

1-5. Safety Considerations, Explicit Definitions ............................................................ 4

2. INSTALLATION ....................................................................................................... 6

2-1. Unpacking and Initial Inspection ............................................................................ 6

2-2. Mains Voltage Selection ........................................................................................ 6

2-3. Amplifier Location Selection .................................................................................. 6

2-4. Connections ........................................................................................................... 7

2-5. Installation of External Fan .................................................................................... 8

3. POWER ON, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS ...................................................... 9

4. OPERATION .......................................................................................................... 11

4-1. Turning ON and OFF ........................................................................................... 11

4-2. Changing Operate and Standby Modes .............................................................. 11

4-3. Antenna change ................................................................................................. .12

4-4. Tuning…………………………………………………………………………………..12

4-5. Continuous carrier modes ................................................................................... 14

4-6. ON LINE Information Screens and Control Functions ........................................ 15

4-7. Auto-Protection System ...................................................................................... 15

5. OFF LINE MODE.................................................................................................... 16

5-1. Auto-Operate enabling and disabling ................................................................. 16

5-2. Antenna output assignment..............…………………………………….…...….…16

5-3. Reading Auto-protection Signatures………………………………........................16

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6. MAINTENANCE………………………………………………………………………...17

6-1. Cleaning………………………………………………………………………………..17
6-2. Fuse Replacement………………………………………………………..…………..17

6-3. Tube Replacement…………………………………...…………………..................17

6-4. The ACOM2100 Simplified Schematic Diagram…………………………………..17
6-5. Troubleshooting………………………………………………………………………18

7. SPECIFICATIONS……………………………………………………………………..20

7-1. Parameters……………………………………………………………………………20
7-2. Functions……………………………………………………………………………...20
7-3. Storage and Shipment……………………………………………………………….21

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1. GENERAL INFORMATION

1-1. Introduction and Description

This manual explains the installation, operation, and maintenance of the ACOM2100 HF+6 meter linear
amplifier.

The ACOM2100 is a complete and self-contained linear amplifier that covers all amateur bands from 1.8
through 54MHz and provides over 1500W PEP or continuous carrier output power with less than 85W
exciter drive. Antenna VSWR up to 3:1 is acceptable with 1500W forward power. Tuning is substantially
simplified by a plate-load True Resistance Indicator (TRI) and by an automatically controlled input
attenuator. Operating parameters are displayed by a multi-functional high brightness and contrast OLED
display. Full break-in transmit/receive switching (QSK) is standard.

1-2. Owner Assistance

If assistance is needed, you should contact your local dealer first. If you still have an issue you need to
discuss with one of ACOM's specialists, the contact information is as follows: fax + 359 2 920 96 56, tel. +
359 2 920 96 55, e-mail [e-mail], [e-mail], WEB: www.acom-bg.com or by
mail: ACOM OOD, Blvd. Nikola Mushanov 151, 1330 Sofia, Bulgaria.

1-3. Equipment Supplied

The ACOM2100 amplifier and this manual are shipped in two cardboard cartons. One carton contains the
power transformer; the second carton contains the amplifier.

1-4. Features

 Easy to operate. The TRI is a powerful tuning aid that, together with the 2:1 TUNE and LOAD caps
verniers and the automatically controlled input attenuator, helps the operator to quickly and precisely
match the antenna impedance to the optimum tube load impedance (5-10 seconds typically). The
auto-operate function (when enabled) maintains the amplifier in the OPERATE mode for you, thus
avoiding unnecessary manual operations.

 No heavy outboard antenna tuners required for antenna VSWRs up to about 3:1. Your amplifier will
enable you to change antennas virtually instantaneously and allow you to use your antennas over wider
frequency ranges.

 An amplifier that is both user-friendly and that looks after itself. It is designed to safely withstand up to
400W reflected power, up to 100 milliseconds duration of drive spikes, drive RF "tails" after a PTT or KEY
release, operator's inadvertent tuning errors etc. The amplifier also will not cease to function with a "soft"
AC mains and will deliver more than half power at only 85% of nominal mains voltage. It can withstand
voltage drops (down to zero Volts) for up to 10 milliseconds and can tolerate 15% mains voltage spikes,
which is especially important on Field Day, during DXpeditions, and at portable operating events where
emergency power is relied upon.

 OLED information display. All amplifier status indications are explained via detailed text displayed on
the dot matrix, high brightness and contrast OLED display. The upper line on the OLED always reads
peak forward power. LED indicators are provided for: OPERATE mode, attenuation-on (ATT), transmit
(TX), selected antenna output (1, 2, or 3), and ON/OFF conditions.

 Antenna selection. Three antenna outputs are selectable using a push-button on the front panel.

 Easy maintenance. Data regarding amplifier internal status is stored in a nonvolatile memory for 7 of

the most recent auto protection trips. This information can be forwarded to your dealer for diagnostics.

Using an Excel application, available from ACOM or your dealer free of charge, and a PC you can decode
the status data by yourself.

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 Less noise in the shack. The input bypassing and vacuum antenna relays are virtually silent even in the
CW QSK mode thanks to specially designed mounting hardware.

 Less QRM and improved Electro Magnetic Compatibility during tuning. Amplifier tuning can be
achieved in less than 10 seconds at a quarter of nominal output power.

 Operates without special signals from the transceiver. "Ground on TX" (PTT) and 85W RF drive power
are sufficient.

 Broadband input matching circuit design provides excellent transceiver loading over the entire
spectrum, from 1.8MHz up to 54MHz.

 Uses a single 4CX1000A/8168 ceramic and metal radial beam tetrode with plate dissipation of 1000W
(forced air cooled, grid-driven), which is specifically designed for class AB1 RF linear amplifier operation.

 Permanent monitoring includes protection of plate and grid voltages and currents, as well as exhaust
air temperature. The Bias Optimizer decreases the heat dissipated from the tube, and there is automatic
protection against overheating in accordance with specifications of the tube manufacturer.

 Output RF arc protection is employed. This important feature safeguards the amplifier, antenna,
antenna selector, and tuner against severe damage in case of possible breakdown.

 High voltage power supply inrush current limitation. This feature reduces the risk to sensitive devices
connected to the same mains circuit (important when used portable) when the amplifier is turned on. The
amplifier can be configured for 8 nominal mains voltages: 100, 110, 120, 200, 210, 220, 230, and 240VAC,
50 or 60Hz.

 Continuous monitoring and/or selectable measurement of the 12 most important parameters of the
amplifier, exciter, and the selected antenna via the OLED.

1-5. Safety Considerations, Explicit Definitions

The ACOM2100 HF + 6 meters Linear Amplifier is a Safety Class I unit. The third grounding lead of its
mains cord (colored yellow with two green stripes) and the ground stud on the rear panel of the amplifier
(marked GND) should be connected to the station's grounding system for safe operation.
The amplifier is designed to meet international safety standards and complies with UL and CE safety and
electromagnetic compatibility requirements, as well as FCC regulations.

This operating manual contains information, precautions, indications for cautions and warnings that must
be followed by the user to assure safe operation and to keep the ACOM2100 operating properly.

PRECAUTIONS:

The EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS described below apply to this operating manual:
W A R N I N G notes call attention to a procedure which, if not correctly performed, could result in

personal injury, fire hazard or electric shock.
C A U T I O N notes call attention to a procedure which, if not correctly performed, could result in

equipment damage, not only in the amplifier.
N O T E notes call attention to a procedure which, if not correctly performed, could result in

inconvenience.

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W A R N I N G HIGH VOLTAGE!

The amplifier works with high voltages above 3000V, which are LETHAL! Also,
for your safety, pull the amplifier power plug out of the mains wall outlet and
WAIT AT LEAST 30 minutes EACH TIME BEFORE you remove the cover of the
amplifier. Do not touch any part inside while the amplifier is open because
some residual voltages may still be present.

W A R N I N G HIGH VOLTAGE!

NEVER ALLOW ANYONE, ESPECIALLY CHILDREN, to push anything into
holes in the case - this will cause electric shock. NEVER TOUCH AN ANTENNA
during transmission - this may result in an electric shock or burn. NEVER
EXPOSE the amplifier to rain, snow or any liquids. AVOID placing the amplifier
in excessively dusty environments or in direct sunlight. DO NOT OBSTRUCT
AIR INTAKE (rear panel) and EXHAUST (top cover) areas of the amplifier. Keep
a minimum distance of 10cm (4 inches) to the intake and 50cm (20 inches) to
the exhaust openings.

W A R N I N G

Do not undertake your own repairs or changes in hardware or software of the
amplifier. Doing so will endanger your or others' health or life or damage the
amplifier and the equipment connected to it. Such repairs or changes are not
covered by warranty and may void the warranty. The manufacturer is not liable
for any such repairs or changes. Any such repairs or changes are strictly the
responsibility of the person or persons engaging therein.

C A U T I O N

To avoid damage (not covered under warranty) read the Installation - Section 2 of this
operating manual carefully. If you have any doubts or questions regarding the
installation, operation or safety of the amplifier, please consult your dealer
immediately.

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2. INSTALLATION

2-1. Unpacking and Initial Inspection

N O T E

Before you install your amplifier, thoroughly read this manual. First, carefully inspect
the cardboard cartons and their contents for physical damage. If damage is evident,
notify your dealer immediately. Delay may void the carrier's warranty. Keep all
packing materials for possible future amplifier shipment.

2-2. Mains Voltage Selection

C A U T I O N

To avoid damage, which will not be covered under your warranty, check carefully to
be certain that the voltage for which the amplifier is set corresponds to your mains
nominal voltage.

Normally, the amplifier is supplied set for a nominal mains voltage of 240V. If your mains voltage is not
240V, you must contact your dealer for instructions on how to change the voltage selector inside the
amplifier. The only exception to this is if the unit has been custom ordered, in which case the voltage
selection will be noted in the Table of Individual Data (Table 2-1, below).

Table 2-1. ACOM 2100 Individual Data

C A U T I O N

The current consumed by the amplifier from the mains supply should not exceed 16A
from 200/240VAC and 20A from 100/120VAC. You will have to reduce the output
power to about 1000W PEP if the amplifier is operated at 120V or lower mains supply
voltage.

2-3. Amplifier Location Selection

C A U T I O N

The weight of the unit is about 29.3kg (64.6Lbs), which should be handled by two
persons.

Position the amplifier near where it will be used. You will need an easy access to the command knobs and
indicator's area, as well as to the rear panel cabling.

No magnetic-field sensitive devices (such as microphones) should be located next to the right side of the
amplifier because its power transformer is located there. It is advisable to position the amplifier to the right
of your transceiver. No temperature-sensitive devices should be located above the exhaust hot air area.
Do not locate the amplifier under a shelf, for example. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES
OBSTRUCT the AIR INTAKE (rear panel) or EXHAUST (top cover) areas of the amplifier. Keep a
minimum clearance distance of 10cm (4 inches) from the intake and 50cm (20 inches) from the exhaust
openings.

N O T E

If the power transformer is not readily installed check the Transformer installation
leaflet supplied with it.