Rev. 3.1
Third series
We congratulate you on the choice of the SPE EXPERT 1.5K-FA solid state linear amplifier.
This amplifier has built-in the power supply (100 – 255 VAC with PFC) and an Automatic Antenna Tuner capable of matching up to 5:1.
This amplifier is small, powerful and covers all the amateur bands from 1.8 to 50 MHz including the WARC bands and, where permitted, can be used on 5 MHz (60 meters).
It is completely automatic and can be used remotely.
Weighing only 9.5 kg. (20.9 Ibs), it is perfect for use in the shack and is superior to all other amplifiers for DXpeditions.
All operating conditions (frequency, antenna, tuner etc.) are controlled from your transceiver.
The operator only needs to move the frequency-tuning knob on the transceiver. Plus, it is possible to connect our amplifier to every transceiver available on the market, as it is extremely user-friendly, and is a product that is the best in its class.
Read this instruction manual carefully before operating your new linear amplifier. Failure to follow these instructions will result in voiding the warranty.
Please keep this manual, as it contains important safety and operating instructions for your SPE EXPERT 1.5K-FA.
The manual is subject to changes and updates, therefore please check for a possible updated version on the website www.linear-amplifier.com.
The English language version is the official one.
This manual is valid only for the third series.
All future software releases can also be used by the Expert 1.5K-FA first and second series whose hardware features remain as in the manuals rev.1.x and rev.2.x.
This manual is divided into four main parts:
First part, from chapter 1 to chapter 9.
The characteristics of the amplifier are described, it is essential to read this to fully understand this amplifier’s potential capabilities that make this product unique.
Second part, from chapter 10 to chapter 11.
Programming and startup of the amplifier is described step by step. Some advice is also given on how to manage various transmission modes.
Third part, from chapter 12 to chapter 16.
This section details how to interface the amplifier with other equipment.
How to build cables, using USB/RS232 ports for remote control, downloads, etc.
Fourth part, chapter 20.
Provides all the information for software management.
Explicit definitions
WORD | DEFINITION | |
| Risk of danger of fire or electric shock to people. Possible damage to the amplifier. | |
NOTE: | Serious problems if not observed. Danger of fire or electric shock for the operator, or damage to the equipment. |
WARNING!
DO NOT disconnect any antenna from the amplifier during transmission. This could cause a risk of electric shock, RF burns or fire.
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.
WARNING!
Before using the linear amplifier, compare the value of voltage of your local AC mains supply system with those required by the amplifier.
WARNING!
DO NOT turn ON the linear amplifier unless it has been properly grounded through the GND conductor of the AC mains cord.
Do not disconnect this ground under any circumstances, this may lead to a risk of severe or fatal electric shock.
WARNING!
DO NOT use an extension cord with the AC power cable unless it is correctly rated as there will be a risk of fire or electric shock. And could compromise the operation of the amplifier.
WARNING!
DO NOT allow metallic objects or wires to enter inside the amplifier.
WARNING!
DO NOT obstruct the cooling vents at both the sides, back and front of the amplifier. Ensure that no objects impede the correct operation of the fans
WARNING!
DO NOT expose the linear amplifier to rain, snow or any liquids.
WARNING!
DO NOT install 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. This could cause an electric shock.
Avoid opening the amplifier before you have disconnected it from the mains supply plus wait at least 2 minutes for the electrolytic capacitors to complete their discharge.
To clean the amplifier DO NOT use chemical agents like alcohol or benzene as the plastic surfaces could be damaged.
AVOID using the amplifier in areas with temperatures below 0° C (+32°F) or above +40°C (+104°F).
AVOID using the linear amplifier in locations that are very dusty, damp, have high humidity or that are in direct sunlight.
AVOID placing the linear amplifier against walls where 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 a long time, set the back main switch [I/O] to the OFF position [O].
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 and local legislation.
This amplifier should only be operated by persons who have an appropriate radio transmitting license.
You should observe your license conditions while using it in accordance with national legislation (power, band, transmission mode etc.).
Remove the packaging and carefully check the contents. Please look closely for the plastic pouch containing cables, fuses and connectors inside the box for your linear amplifier.
It may be in the inside pocket of the canvas carrying bag.
If you find any damage or if there are any parts missing, contact your distributor/dealer immediately.
Keeping the shipping cartons and packaging materials for future transportation is recommended.
Accessories included in the carton
Transport carry bag.
Two cables with RCA (phono) connectors for ALC, RELAY links.
One USB standard cable.
Three connectors DB-15, 1 connector DB-9.
CD-ROM containing the user manual and the software for remote use.
One 20 A spare fuse.
Spare air filter.
Certificate of compliance and warranty form.
d
a
c
g
b
.
f
e
h
ON turns on unit.
OFF turns off unit when held down for three seconds.
DISPLAY toggles between display pages.
POWER switches output power between “MAX / MID / LOW“.
OP toggles back and forth between Standby/Operate modes.
SET used to program the amplifier.
▼► used to program the amplifier.
◄▲ used to program the amplifier.
INPUT selects one of the two inputs of the amplifier.
◄BAND switches bands manually (downward in frequency).
BAND► switches bands manually (upward in frequency).
ANT switches the antennas when programmed for use.
CAT shows the current CAT interface setting.
TUNE: starts the automatic tuning process.
◄C used for manual tuning.
C► used for manual tuning.
◄L used for manual tuning.
L► used for manual tuning.
TX red LED, illuminates during transmission.
OP yellow LED, illuminates when the amplifier is in “Operate” state.
ON green LED, illuminates when the amplifier is “ON”.
SET green LED, illuminates during programming.
TUNE yellow LED, illuminates during tuning.
AL red LED, illuminates when there is an alarm.
LCD DISPLAY
AIR-FILTER GRID
Note: Pressing [CAT] key two times, will show the current firmware version.
ANT connectors for four available antennas.
SO2R connector for SO2R operations.
INPUT connectors to connect two exciters.
FANS
IN 1 ALC, RELAY, CAT connectors for exciter 1.
IN 2 ALC, RELAY, CAT connectors for exciter 2.
“PORT” connector.
“USB” connector.
“AUX” connector.
ON main switch.
AC mains power cable.
GND ground connection.
Pred. -60dB attenuated tap.
(Read the specific chapters for more details).
The amplifier uses a switching power supply that will automatically adapt to any AC voltage supply that is between 100 and 255 Vac and is 50 or 60 Hz.
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) some internal voltages in the amp are now present allowing the operator to turn ON or turn OFF the linear amplifier in one of the following ways:
Using the [ON]/[ OFF] keys on the front panel.
Applying / removing 9 to 15 VDC on pin (8) of the CAT connector (see note below).
Using the USB port and the management software. This software can be downloaded from the website www.linear-amplifier.com .
Note: Almost all transceivers, when turned ON, will output 13.8 VDC. Using this voltage, the linear amplifier can be automatically turned ON and OFF when the transceiver is turned ON and OFF.
Note: There is an “inline fuse” located inside the amplifier (remove the lower cover).
The linear amplifier has two inputs (INPUT 1, INPUT 2) to which you can connect one or two transceivers of any brand or type.
These inputs are selected with the [INPUT] key or automatically switched with the PTT of each transceiver.
The amplifier easily manages up to four antennas (ANT 1, ANT 2, ANT 3 and ANT 4). The amplifier can be programmed to automatically select any of the four antenna ports. The SO2R functionality is implemented by its dedicated connector, appropriately marked.
There are two transceiver inputs (IN 1, IN 2), allowing two distinct transceivers to be connected at the same time.
ALC This is a negative voltage generated by the amplifier. It is used to limit the output power of the transceiver in order to prevent over-driving.(ALC allows maximum power of transceiver in STANDBY”, then the proper drive power in “OPERATE”). In this way the drive power from the exciter will be regulated automatically without having to set it.
Plus it automatically adapts to your transceiver’s voltage range (e.g. any range between 0 volts and negative 12 volts.
If the ALC port is not connected, it is mandatory to manually adjust the drive from the transceiver as happens in all other competitors.
The use of the ALC port is highly recommended.
Note: With this link, it is also possible when in the amplifier LOW power mode, with most transceivers, to use the arrows [ ▼►] or [◄▲] to reduce the driving power to less than 5W in order to set the amplifier’s output power within the country's limits.
RELAY This essential port allows the amplifier to be switched into the transmit state. To do that, the inner pin of the RCA phono connector must be switched to ground potential. This is normally done by the transceiver with either a “close-to-ground” relay, or an open-collector transistor.
On the transceiver-side this link is often called SEND, PTT or TX GND. Refer to your transceiver manual for more details.
Max current needed is only 2 mA or less.
CAT This port is highly recommended
Thanks to this port the linear amplifier will detect, while in the receive mode, the operating frequency of the transceiver and then automatically control changes of band, antenna and automatic antenna Tuner.
All modern transceivers have CAT control options.
In older models, often elementary analog or digital information is sent from the transceiver to the amplifier for band switching only.
To facilitate any possible connection, there is also a very efficient frequency meter in the amplifier.
The management of the band, the antennas and the Tuner is implemented in the Expert with one of the following choices:
Through “CAT”, present in all recent transceivers. Band and sub-band are automatically selected by the receiving transceiver without the aid of the internal counter.
ABSOLUTELY RECOMMENDED SOLUTION AS IT IS THE MOST SAFE AND TECHNICALLY CORRECT.
Using "BAND DATA", in this case the band is automatically set by the transceiver while the internal frequency meter will select only the sub-band during transmission.
Through “NONE” in the absence of a suitable data connection with the transceiver. The fact that this condition does not require any connection might seem a simplification, in reality this choice is not recommended because band and sub-band will be selected by the internal frequency meter only during transmission.
Use this condition only if the choices a) and b) are NOT PRACTICAL.
GIVING THE POWER MANAGED , A DANGER CONDITIONS COULD BE VERIFIED, IN PARTICULAR BAND CHANGES IF DONE IN OPERATE.
IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED TO DO THIS IN STANDBY.
NOT FOLLOWING THIS RECOMMENDATION WILL BE CONSIDERED "MISUSE" OF THE EQUIPMENT WITH CONSEQUENT LOSS OF
WARRANTY (an indelible internal log records every condition).
In condition c) also avoid putting two transmitting antenna very close operating simultaneously on different bands, the resulting strong signals could generate undue band changes or SWR alarms.
Note: In some transceivers the “RELAY” and “CAT” signals are activated by a selection in the menu: in that case, please refer to their user’s manuals.
The diagram shows the connections with one transceiver only. To connect the second transceiver, repeat the same connections used for “IN 1”, now using the port “IN 2“ connections.
For ALC and RELAY connections, use a shielded cable (supplied) with RCA phono connectors.
For CAT connection, this cable needs to be made by the owner, or purchased, for the many different transceivers available for use with the amplifier.
This cable may also include ALC, RELAY ON / OFF (read the “CAT CONNECTIONS“ chapter of this manual).
For all other information about connecting a transceiver, please refer to the transceiver’s manual.
Note: If the DB15 “CAT” connector is used for RELAY and ALC, do not also use the RELAY and ALC RCA phono connectors.
Block diagram.
The position of the contacts, as shown in the diagram, is when the linear amplifier is in the OFF state.
The linear amplifier can be used in the following way:
OFF Only two direct connections are actuated: between INPUT 1 and ANT 1
between INPUT 2 and SO2R
STANDBY All the functions are activated (band change, antenna change, tuner control) and the transmission is from the transceiver only.
OPERATE All the functions are activated and the transmission is using the linear amplifier.
Note: Regulation of the exciter’s power is automatically achieved through the ALC link.
With the ALC connected, the amplifier input power in OPERATE mode is automatically adjusted to the correct driving level for the amplifier.
In STANDBY the amplifier will pass the output power as set by its POWER OUTPUT control.
Without the ALC connection, you have to manually adjust the exciter power to correct drive the amplifier in order to avoid damaging the amplifier.
If you switch from MAX to MID or LOW without ALC connection, without previously reducing the driving power, the amplifier will go into protection for "OVER DRIVING".
Despite being protected, the amplifier is still exposed to risk with repeated "OVER DRIVING" conditions.
If you persist without investigating the causes, you will void the warranty.
Operation of this kind is used during a contest in order to acquire a new multiplier, as quickly as possible.
The following connections are needed (see the diagram):
INPUT 1 connected to the first transceiver (RTX1).
INPUT 2 connected to the second transceiver (RTX2).
ANT 1/2/3/4 connected to the available antennas set.
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. 20m), the correct antenna (ANT 1/2/3/4) is automatically selected for listening and transmitting.
While RTX2 is connected to the multi-band antenna on the SO2R port, and is in the RX mode, on another band (e.g. 40m).
If, when operating on 20 m, a multiplier of interest is heard on RTX2, the only action needed is to push the PTT2 in order to connect RTX2 to the 40 m transmitting antenna.
At the same time RTX1 gets switched to the multiband antenna in order to receive on the 20 m band.
More generally, the appropriate antenna of the ANT 1/2/3/4 / park is associated with the transmitting transceiver, while the multiband will pass to the other transceiver for reception only
Instead of the multiband antenna it is possible to use one of the same antennas of the ANT 1/2/3/4 park for reception. This possibility is offered by the use of the "AM-01 REMOTE SWITCH" external unit which also has the ability to extend the number of usable antennas from 4 to 6 according to the following figure.
This unit is not simply a "remote antenna switch" for 6 antennas in SO2R mode, it also has the ability to become a 1 x 6 matrix, perfect for simply remoting up to 6 antennas (in this case the SO2R cable is not needed) .
This solution does not require any additional cable since the antenna coaxial cable is also used to send the commands and to power the switch.
The control signals are provided by the Expert 1.5K-FA according to the table that already exists inside the linear that associates with the maximum flexibility of the antennas to the bands.
For setting, see chapter 10 "Programming" and read the AMB-01 user manual.
Note: ATTENTION, the insulation between the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna must be high and therefore well studied.
This can be achieved by conveniently arranging the antennas and using suitable Band Filters or Stubs.
SPE is not responsible for any damage resulting from the equipment.
To increase the isolation between the transmitting and the receiving antenna, SPE has under design an optional unit called "SPE BPF1" which must be placed between RTX1 and INPUT1 or RTX2 and INPUT 2 of the linear.
The unit is controlled and powered from the AUX port. (Contact the manufacturer or your distributor for availability).
The AUX port also provides all the information necessary to control a similar unity of
another manufacturer.
This unit automatically enables the following features:
DXpedition, Contest Multi / Multi
In this situation the amplifier is connected to a single transceiver (INPUT 1 or INPUT 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 left unused.
Contest SO2R.
In this case the amplifier is connected to two transceivers and two "SPE BPF1" in order to automatically select the right filters in the output of both the transceivers.
These features can be possible, as well, with the simultaneous use of the unit "AMB-01” (see item 4.1).
To ensure the proper functionality of these options, CAT connector control is mandatory.
The Expert 1.5K-FA also allows QSK (FULL BREAK-IN) operation. Thanks to the correct control used on the 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 a transmission is usually less than 6 msec. (check the manual of the transceiver).
In the case (and it is very remote) of minor delay needed, you can use the link TX - INH (see "CAT" paragraph).
Special very reliable, “noiseless”, with high mechanical performance, gold plated relays are used so that the “vacuum relays” option is no longer required.
In QSK we do not recommend the use of the "AM-01 REMOTE SWITCH" for timing reasons.
The use of tunable antennas (SteppIR, Ultrabeam) is becoming popular.
These antennas vary the physical dimensions of the elements according to the operating frequency in order to ensure a perfect resonance.
The Expert 1.5K-FA, through the dedicated "PORT" socket linked to the antenna controller, allows automatic control by tracking the tuning knob changes.
This dedicated link makes the following advantages possible:
Simplification of wiring, such as the complication of adding additional wiring to the CAT connector is no longer necessary.
Compatibility with all types of CAT: The Expert 1.5K-FA converts the CAT protocol, so two different transceivers (CATs) can be used simultaneously with the same controller without any modification of the wiring.
Thanks to the requency counter inside the linear, the antenna can be controlled also without the use of CAT (CAT NONE).
All of the automatic features of the linear are ensured even in the most complex configurations.
Antennas of all kinds can be connected to the "ANT" PORTS and the Expert 1.5K-FA will choose the antennas according to the set-up and will manage them according to their characteristics.
The CAT is recommended, however, if the transceiver does not have the CAT or if it only has the "Band Data", the Expert 1.5K-FA will continue to drive the antenna with the frequency measured by the counter (data collected after the first transmission) .
The simplest possible configuration is a single tunable antenna according to the following diagram
The link is configurable for any position (ANT 1,2,3,4) you want use.
To select a tunable antenna, refer to the “TUN ANT” item on the main menu.
After selection, on the display, next to the number of the antenna in use a “t” . will appear. In this case the ATU will be bypassed.
Set "Kenwood" in the control box as the communication protocol used, the speed of the communication is “owner settable.”
For the connection cable, refer to chapter 13.5.
In some cases it may be necessary to transmit with one antenna and receive with a more appropriate one.
A unique feature allows the Expert 1.5K-FA to have a very flexible management of the available antennas.
To select a receiving antenna, refer to the “RX ANT” item on the main menu. One of the following functions can be selected for each antenna:
RTX: this is the "default" condition, an antenna marked RTX can be used for both transmission and reception regardless of whether it is in the first or second column in the "ANTENNA" menu item.
RX Also: an antenna marked RX Also if, in the "ANTENNA" menu item, it is placed in the first column it behaves like a normal RTX, if it is placed in the second column it provides reception after the antenna selected in the first column has transmitted.
RX Only: an antenna marked RX Only is an antenna suitable for reception only (e.g. Beverage) it can be inserted in the first or second column, the important thing is that an RTX is present in the other column. Since with linear OFF the INPUT1 is connected directly to ANT1, to avoid the danger of transmitting when the linear is off with a receive-only antenna, it is not possible to select ANT1 as RX Only.
The program admits only one RX Only.
In the "ANTENNA" menu item, in the last two cases, an "r" will appear next to the number of the selected antenna (e.g. 3r). On the main screen, the indication of the receiving antenna is placed above the transmission one.
QSK does not recommend this feature for timing reasons.
As an example, the screens are shown in the case of using ANT1 as “RX Also”.
“RX ANT setting”
“ANTENNA setting”
“OPERATE page”