Acom AA2000 Users Manual
International, Inc.
Exhibit 7: User’s Manual
External Radio Frequency
Power Amplifier ACOM 2000A
Model 2000A
157 Horse Pond Road, Sudbury, MA 01776
Tel: (978) 440-7555
Fax: (978) 440-9080
e-mail: aa1nd@aol.com
Table of Contents
1. GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
1-1. Introduction and Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1-2. Owner Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1-3. Equipment Supplied and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1-4. Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1-5. Safety Considerations, Explicit Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2. INSTALLATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
2-1. Unpacking and Initial Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2-2. Line Voltage Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
2-3. Transformer Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
2-4. Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2-5. Installation of Optional Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3. POWER ON, RCU CONTROLS, INDICATORS AND MENUS . . . . . .11
4. MAIN MENU, FREQUENCY AND ANTENNA SELECTION . . . . . . .13
4-1. AUTO TUNE sub-menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
4-2. MANUAL TUNE sub-menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4-3. MEASURE sub-menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4-4. SERVICE sub-menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4-5. Erasing USR segments (return to DEF- tunings) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
5. OFF-MENU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
5-1. HELP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
5-2. CALL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
5-3. INFO (INFO BOX) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5-4. LOCK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
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5-5. CLR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
5-6. DEF (Defaults) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
5-7. Erasing Nonvolatile Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
6. MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
6-1. Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6-2. Backup Battery Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6-3. Fuses Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6-4. Tubes Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
6-5. The ACOM2000A Simplified Schematic Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6-6. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
7. SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
7-1. Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
7-2. Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
7-3. Storage and Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
8. BRIEF MENU GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
9. ACOM WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
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1. GENERAL INFORMATION
1-1. Introduction and Description
This manual explains the installation, operation and maintenance of the ACOM2000A automatic HF
linear amplifier.
The ACOM2000A is a complete and self-contained linear amplifier which covers all amateur bands
from 1.8 through 30MHz, has automatic self-tune capability, and provides up to 1500W output power
with less than 60W exciter drive. In addition, it has automatic antenna impedance matching capability
for loads up to 3:1 VSWR (2:1 on 160 meters). It features a Remote Control Unit (RCU), contains
nonvolatile memory for settings on up to ten different antennas per frequency segment, and offers
command capability for use with an external automatic antenna selector and/or automatic antenna
tuner. Transmit / receive switching is capable of full break-in operation (QSK) via an internal vacuum
relay.
All indicators and controls (except the primary mains switch and indicator) are available via the RCU.
All command input to the RCU is menu-driven.
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 2 276 190, e-
mail acom@aster.net or by mail: ul.3011-9, complex Lyulin, 1336 Sofia, Bulgaria.
1-3. Equipment Supplied and Options
The ACOM 2000A amplifier is shipped in two cardboard cartons. One carton contains the power
transformer; the second carton contains the amplifier. The remote control unit (RCU) is shipped inside
the amplifier in the area where the power transformer will be mounted.
There are three separably-purchasable options available. They are an auxiliary EXTERNAL FAN for
continuous modes of operation (rear panel mount), a DOS APPLICATION for program control via
personal computer and the TECHNICAL SUPPLEMENT to this manual, containing electrical diagrams,
technical details on operation and maintenance, as well as a list of command set and local network rules
for RS232 operation.
1-4. Features
l Easy to operate. No operator intervention is required when matching antennas or when changing
frequency. Thus the risk of inadvertant errors, such as incorrect antenna selection or failure to change
band switch, is eliminated.
l LCD comment display. All amplifier status indicators are explained via detailed text diplayed on the
dot-matrix, back-lighted liquid crystal display (LCD) on the RCU. The HELP sub-menu gives on-board
technical assistance and troubleshooting suggestions, power-on hours etc. LED strips readout direct
peak forward and reflected power. LED indicators are provided for OPERATE/STANDBY and for fault
conditions.
l Easy maintenance. Information on the amplifier internal status is stored in an "INFO BOX" for the
12 most recent protection faults. This information can be forwarded automatically via telephone to
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your dealer for phone-line remote diagnostics. Using the DOS APPLICATION option and a PC you can
read the INFO BOX in a file and send it via INTERNET as well.
l Less QRM, improved Electro Magnetic Compatibility during tuning. Retuning can be achieved in two
ways: without any transmission, manually via the RCU; or with a very short transmission - a single word
on SSB or a dot (even at 40 wpm) on the new frequency is enough to change bands or segments
automatically. Antenna matching is completed in less than 3 seconds at a quarter of nominal output
power.
l Saves space on the operating table. Since the amplifier is controlled by the RCU, the main unit can
be located up to 3 meters from the operating position.
l Operates automatically without special signals from the transceiver - ground on TX and 60W RF
drive power are sufficient.
l Broadband input matching circuit resulting in very good load to the transceiver over the entire short
wave spectrum.
l Uses two 4CX800A (GU74B) Svetlana high performance ceramic-metal tetrodes with plate dissipa-
tion of 800W each (forced air cooling, grid-driven).
l ACOM maintains strict adherence to the tube manufacturers specifications for cooling and for the
sequence of applying and removing the different tube voltages. Starting filament current is limited, and
there is constant monitoring and protection of all supply voltages and currents. The Bias Optimizer
decreases the heat dissipated from the tubes, and there is automatic protection against overheating or
insufficient air flow.
l A novel and innovative output RF Arc protection is employed. It safeguards the amplifier, antenna,
antenna selector and tuner against severe damage in case of possible break down.
l High voltage power supply inrush current protection which eliminates the danger of affecting sensi-
tive devices, connected to the same mains circuit. The amplifier can be configured for 5 nominal line
voltages: 100, 120, 200, 220 and 240VAC (50 or 60Hz).
l Continuous measuring and/or monitoring of 20 most important parameters of the amplifier, exciter
and antennas via RCU and/or PC as described in the TECHNICAL SUPPLEMENT.
l Password protection against unauthorized access to the amplifier can be selectively enabled. In
addition, the amplifier can be shipped with 10 meters and 12 meters capability disabled as required by
the FCC for US users. Contact your dealer about the way of enabling.
l All functions are accessible from a PC via serial port connection. Also, local networking capability
exists for more than one set of amplifier / antenna units working in a system. DOS applications are
available on request.
1-5. Safety Considerations, Explicit Definitions
The ACOM2000A Automatic HF Linear Amplifier is a Safety Class I unit, i.e. the third grounding lead of
its mains cord (which is colored yellow with two green stripes) and the ground stud on the rear panel
of the amplifier, marked GND, both must be connected to the station's grounding system for safe
operation. The amplifier is designed to meet international safety standards and complies with CE safety
and electromagnetic compatibility requirements, as well as FCC regulations.
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This operating manual contains information, precautions, indications for cautions and warnings which
must be followed by the user to ensure safe operation and to keep the ACOM2000A in safe operating
condition.
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
nience only.
notes call attention to a procedure which, if not correctly performed, could result in inconve-
The amplifier works with high voltages up to 3000V, which is 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.
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.
W A R N I N G HIGH VOLTAGE!
W A R N I N G HIGH VOLTAGE!
NEVER ALLOW ANYONE, ESPECIALLY CHILDREN,
W A R N I N G
Do not undertake on your own repairs or changes in hardware or software
of the amplifier in order not to endanger your or others health and life and
not to damage the amplifier and the equipment connected with it, not cov-
ered by warranty. The manufacturer is not liable for anothers actions and
responsibility shall be assumed by the doer.
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 about the installation, opera-
tion or safety of the amplifier, please consult your dealer.
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2. INSTALLATION
2-1. Unpacking and Initial Inspection
N O T E
Before you start any action on installing the amplifier, thoroughly read through this
manual. First carefully inspect both cardboard cartons and their contents for physi-
cal damage. If damage is noticed, notify your dealer immediately. Delay may infringe
carrier's warranty conditions. Keep all packing for possible future transportation!
In order to take the RCU out of the amplifier, remove the cover by removing all screws except the eight
located in the tube exhaust areas.
W A R N I N G HIGH VOLTAGE!
Check the HV Crowbar (Fig. 2-2) - it must reliably shorten the HV lead to
the chassis when cover is open.
Take the RCU out and free the compartment for installing the transformer. Carefully inspect the RCU
and the amplifier main components for any possible shipping damage.
N O T E
Check carefully the serial numbers of amplifier and tubes with the Table of Indi-
vidual Data (Table 2-1). If you find any discrepancies notify your dealer immediately
to have your warranty information corrected.
2-2. Line Voltage Selection
n/sPMA
n/sebuttnorF
n/sebutraeR
noitisoProtceleSegatloV
egatloVtuptuOnaFlanoitpO
Table 2-1. ACOM 2000A Individual Data
C A U T I O N
CAV
CDV
To avoid damage (not covered under warranty), check carefully if the voltage for
which the amplifier is set corresponds to your mains nominal voltage. Most 120V
and especially 100V domestic mains installations may not withstand the current con-
sumption and you will have to reduce the output power to about 1000W PEP.
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Normally the amplifier is supplied with Voltage Selector set for a nominal mains voltage of 240V. There
C
might be exceptions in cases of special delivery and then the voltage set is noted in the Table of Indi-
vidual Data (Table 2-1). If your mains has a different nominal voltage, it will be necessary for you to
contact your dealer or see the TECHNICAL SUPPLEMENT for details.
2-3. Transformer Installation
C A U T I O N
After installing the transformer, the weight of the unit is about 35kg, which should
preferably be handled by two persons. An assistant may be needed to hold the
amplifier steady during transformer installation.
Position the amplifier, with the transformer not yet installed, flat on a table near the place where it will
be used. During the process described below, when the amplifier cover is removed, take care not to
torque or twist the chassis nor let the amplifier stand on edge. Do not lift the unit by only one corner.
Orient the amplifier on the table so that the transformer compartment is in front of you (Fig.2-2):
HV PCB HV Crowbar A
2).
HV Connector Motor Voltage Connector
Fig.2-2 Transformer Installation
Take the transformer out of the carton and remove the shipping board. Keep the board together with
the four long bolts and all packing for possible future transportation. For transformer mounting, four
shorter bolts (M8x16mm) are provided in a polyethylene envelope inside the same carton.
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Move the transformer, using its rope sling handle, into the compartment. Take care not to damage the
wiring or components and position the transformer so that the captive nuts are aligned with the corre-
sponding chassis holes. Make sure that the transformer is centered. The transformer bolts must be
installed NOW for safe operation.
Holding its two sides (front and back) simultaneously, pull the amplifier towards you just far enough that
the two outside transformer captive nuts appear off the table edge. Support the amplifier until your
assistant loosely screws in the two outside transformer-mounting bolts. Pull the amplifier a further 12-
13 cm (about 5 inches) until the other two captive nuts appear off the table edge. Keep supporting the
amplifier until your assistant loosely screws them in. After checking that the transformer is centered,
tighten all 4 bolts. Now move the amplifier back over the table.
The transformer's Mains Connector plugs into the AC power console (Fig.2-2). The other three con-
nectors (HV, Motors Voltage & SG Voltage) plug into the HIGH VOLTAGE PCB, clearly seen on top.
Replace the cover and carefully reinstall all screws. Look at the rear panel and follow the instruction:
"Remove the above two screws before use. Replace before shipment"(Fig.2.3).
2-4. Connections
The amplifier is now ready to be connected to your station. Connection must be accomplished in the
order described below, before you apply mains voltage to the amplifier.
W A R N I N G
Have in mind that the grounding system may have to withstand currents
over 20A with insignificant voltage drop on it. Therefore it may be neces-
sary to improve it considerably (to become lower-resistive, i.e. with heavier
leads and lower-resistive ground path). The grounding leads should be at
least 8mm2 (AWG 8 or SWG 10).
Optional Fan Primary Fuses Blower shipment screws
d e g f h i a c b
Fig.2-3 Connections
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a) First connect the ground stud of the amplifier (on the rear panel, marked GND) to the station's
grounding system (Fig.2-3).
b) Connect a coaxial cable with a PL-259 plug from the transceiver output to the amplifier rear panel RF
INPUT socket.
C A U T I O N
If this is the first time you will use a high power ampllifier in your station, pay atten-
tion to the coaxial cable type from the amplifiers output. It must handle the in-
creased power safely, particularly on the higher frequency bands. We recommend
you use RG213 or better. Check the same about the antenna selector and tuner as
well as the antenna itself (especially multiband trap antennas).
c) Connect a coaxial cable from the amplifier output (on the rear panel, marked RF OUTPUT) with a
PL-259 plug to the antenna selector or tuner or to the antenna for the respective band.
d) Run a cable terminated in a Phono connector from the transceiver socket providing ground on
transmit to the amplifier rear panel KEY-IN socket.
N O T E
Your amplifier will not work if KEY-IN is not connected properly.
Transceiver producers give different names to this output and they are for instance TX-GND, SEND,
T/R-LINE, etc. Some transceivers require that ground on transmit is implemented via a software
command, or by changing the setting of a switch on the rear panel, or interior of the transceiver. Check
your transceivers manual.
e) The KEY-OUT socket on the rear panel provides an extra control signal from the amplifier to the
transceiver. It could be used to improve the transmit/receive switching.
If your transceiver has a suitable input which disables transmission, we recommend that you connect it
with a cable terminated in a Phono connector to the KEY-OUT socket of the amplifier. Transceiver
producers give different names to this input and they are for instance TX-INHIBIT, MUTE, LINEAR,
etc. Check your transceivers manual. Consult your dealer or see the TECHNICAL SUPPLEMENT for
details.
If your transceiver has not such an input dont worry - the amplifier will function normally as well and
then the KEY-OUT may remain unused.
f) Connect the RCU cable to the respective D-9 type connector on the amplifier rear panel, marked
REMOTE CONTROL, and screw in the knurled screws.
g) The ALC output of the amplifier normally remains unused. In case of need of ALC for your trans-
ceiver, which we do not recommend, you may contact your dealer or see the TECHNICAL SUPPLE-
MENT.
h) The connector on the rear panel, marked INTERFACE, remains unused until you decide to use the
amplifier with a personal computer or in a local network as described in the TECHNICAL SUPPLE-
MENT.
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