Alignment - Vertex Standard VX-230 Service Manual

Introduction
The VX-230 series has been aligned at the factory for the spec-
ified performance across the entire frequency range specified.
Realignment should therefore not be necessary except in the
event of a component failure. All component replacement and
service should be performed only by an authorized Vertex Stan-
dard representative, or the warranty policy may be voided.
The following procedures cover the sometimes critical and te-
dious adjustments that are not normally required once the trans-
ceiver has left the factory. However, if damage occurs and some
parts are replaced, realignment may be required. If a sudden
problem occurs during normal operation, it is likely due to com-
ponent failure; realignment should not be done until after the
faulty component has been replaced.
We recommend that servicing be performed only by authorized
Vertex Standard service technicians who are experienced with
the circuitry and fully equipped for repair and alignment. There-
fore, if a fault is suspected, contact the dealer from whom the
transceiver was purchased for instructions regarding repair.
Authorized Vertex Standard service technicians realign all cir-
cuits and make complete performance checks to ensure com-
pliance with factory specifications after replacing any faulty
components. Those who do undertake any of the following align-
ments are cautioned to proceed at their own risk. Problems
caused by unauthorized attempts at realignment are not cov-
ered by the warranty policy. Also, Vertex Standard must re-
serve the right to change circuits and alignment procedures in
the interest of improved performance, without notifying own-
ers. Under no circumstances should any alignment be attempt-
ed unless the normal function and operation of the transceiver
are clearly understood, the cause of the malfunction has been
clearly pinpointed and any faulty components replaced, and the
need for realignment determined to be absolutely necessary.
The following test equipment (and thorough familiarity with its
correct use) is necessary for complete realignment. Correction
of problems caused by misalignment resulting from use of im-
proper test equipment is not covered under the warranty policy.
While most steps do not require all of the equipment listed, the
interactions of some adjustments may require that more com-
plex adjustments be performed afterwards. Do not attempt to
perform only a single step unless it is clearly isolated electrical-
ly from all other steps. Have all test equipment ready before
beginning, and follow all of the steps in a section in the order
presented.
Required Test Equipment
Radio Tester with calibrated output level at 200 MHz
In-line Wattmeter with 5% accuracy at 200 MHz
50-ohm, 10-W RF Dummy Load
Regulated DC Power Supply (standard 7.5 VDC, 2 A)
Frequency Counter: ±0.2 ppm accuracy at 200 MHz
AF Signal Generator
AC Voltmeter
DC Voltmeter
VHF Sampling Coupler
Microsoft Windows 2000 (Service Pack 3) or later oper-
® ®
ating system
Micorosoft Net Framework 2.0 or later
®
Vertex Standard CE99 Alignment program and CT-42 Con-
nection Cable or FIF-10A USB Programming Interface and
CT-106 PC Programming Cable.
Alignment Preparation & Precautions
A 50-ohm RF Dummy load and in-line wattmeter must be con-
nected to the main antenna jack in all procedures that call for
transmission, except where specified otherwise. Correct align-
ment is not possible with an antenna.
After completing one step, read the following step to determine
whether the same test equipment will be required. If not, re-
move the test equipment (except dummy load and wattmeter, if
connected) before proceeding.
Correct alignment requires that the ambient temperature be the
same as that of the transceiver and test equipment, and that this
temperature be held constant between 20 °C and 30 °C (68 °F ~
86 °F). When the transceiver is brought into the shop from hot
or cold air, it should be allowed time to come to room temper-
ature before alignment.
Whenever possible, alignments should be made with oscillator
shields and circuit boards firmly affixed in place. Also, the test
equipment must be thoroughly warmed up before beginning.
Note: Signal levels in dB referred to in this procedure are based
on 0 dBµ EMF = 1.0 µV.

Alignment

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