Drake DA User Manual

® Distribution Amplifiers 1

DESCRIPTION

The R.L. DRAKE models DA100042, DA100032, DA8642, DA8632,
DA7543, and DA7533, are broadband distribution amplifiers designed for
indoor use in both residential and commercial buildings where RF signal
distribution in the frequency range of 49 to 1000 MHz is required. Each
model provides a very low distortion signal for a cable TV “drop”, the output
of an SMATV headend, or a small CATV headend. The amps are suitable
for both analog and digital - ATSC or QAM, amplification. The Gain and
Slope controls both have a range of 10 dB minimum and operate between
the preamp hybrid and the output hybrid to maintain a low noise figure over
a wide range of gain and slope settings. Double-sided, plated through hole,
glass epoxy, printed circuit boards, and SMT are used for low losses and
maximum reliability.

All models include a 20 dB gain integrated active return path amplifier,
and can provide a nominal unity gain passive return or no return path by
selection with internal jumpers.

Input and output test connectors are provided for convenient monitoring of
the signal path. The amplifier circuitry is designed for maximum stability,
low distortion, low noise figure, and is protected in a rugged aluminum
housing.

The unit operates from a nominal 26 VAC provided by the supplied
120 VAC, 60 Hz input AC Adapter.

Input equalizer and fixed attenuator options are available.

INSTALLATION

1) Unpack the distribution amplifier and AC adapter.

2) Mount the amplifier in the desired location, using the four mounting screw

holes on the sides of the amplifier. Vertical mounting on a wall with the
output end up is recommended for best ventilation and the coolest operation.

OUT

SCREW HOLES FOR
WALL MOUNTING
(2 each side)

IN TRANSFORMER

4) If the power transformer is to be wall mounted, install the included
bracket as shown. Then mount transformer to the wall.

WALL MOUNTING HOLES
OF MOUNTING BRACKET

SCREWS FOR FASTEN­ING
MOUNTING BRACKET
TO TRANSFORMER CASE

5) Connect input and output cables to the amplifier.

6) Plug the power transformer line cord into a 120 VAC/60 Hz

power source.

7) Preset slope control fully clockwise.

8) While monitoring the output levels at the Output -30 dB test port, adjust

the Gain control for desired output at the high end of the band. Then
monitor the lowest channel and adjust slope control to equalize this channel
to the desired level (usually equal to but not higher than the high end of the
band). Since there can be a slight interaction between the gain settings, it
is advised to repeat this step a few times to ensure the desired levels are
attained.

3) Route the power cable as needed to the power transformer. The cable
can be pushed between fins of the heat sink on the bottom of the amplifier.
Connect the power cable to the screw terminals on the power transformer.

NOTE: The -30 dB input and output test ports can be used to monitor input
and output levels. These are only accurate when the load is connected to
the amplifier output and power is on.

2 Internal Jumper Settings

RETURN PATH PROGRAMMING

There are three internal jumpers to be set. J1, J2, and J3. J1 and J3
program the signal path for the return path. If the return amplifier is desired
(20 dB gain), select the active return setting. This is the factory default. If a
unity gain return path is desired, select the passive return settings. If no
return path is desired, remove both J1 and J3. Jumper J2 is used to enable
DC power to the return amplifier. When selecting the active return, Jumper
J2 must be installed. If using the passive return or no return, remove
Jumper J2.

INTERNAL JUMPER SETTINGS -

1) Unplug amp from the AC power source.

2) Remove top cover by loosening (but not removing) the 12 top cover
screws. Slide the top cover so the screws will slip through the larger screw
hole openings, then remove top cover.

A) JUMPER SETTINGS FOR ACTIVE RETURN PATH (Factory Setting)

POWER LED

B) JUMPER SETTINGS FOR PASSIVE RETURN PATH

POWER LED

C) REMOVE ALL THREE JUMPERS FOR NO RETURN

JUMPER INSTALLED

JUMPER NOT IN-

STALLED

RETURN PATH GAIN

RETURN PATH GAIN

ADJUSTMENT

ADJUSTMENT