Safety Precautions The following are general safety precautions that are not necessarily related to any specific part or procedure, and do not necessarily appear elsewhere in this publication. These precautions must be thoroughly understood and apply to all phases of operation and maintenance. WARNING Keep Away From Live Circuits Operating Personnel must at all times observe general safety precautions. Do not replace components or make adjustments to the inside of the test equipment with the high voltage supply turned on. To avoid casualties, always remove power. WARNING Shock Hazard Do not attempt to remove the RF transmission line while RF power is present. WARNING Do Not Service Or Adjust Alone Under no circumstances should any person reach into an enclosure for the purpose of service or adjustment of equipment except in the presence of someone who is capable of rendering aid. WARNING Safety Earth Ground An uninterruptible earth safety ground must be supplied from the main power source to test instruments. Grounding one conductor of a two conductor power cable is not sufficient protection. Serious injury or death can occur if this grounding is not properly supplied. WARNING Resuscitation Personnel working with or near high voltages should be familiar with modern methods of resuscitation. WARNING Remove Power Observe general safety precautions. Do not open the instrument with the power on.
Safety Precautions Safety Symbols WARNING Warning notes call attention to a procedure, which if not correctly performed, could result in personal injury. CAUTION Caution notes call attention to a procedure, which if not correctly performed, could result in damage to the instrument. Note: Calls attention to supplemental information. Warning Statements The following safety warnings appear in the text where there is danger to operating and maintenance personnel, and are repeated here for emphasis. WARNING Disconnect the unit from the RF power source and the ac line before any disassembly. The potential for electrical shock exists. See page 17...
Transmitter Power Monitor/Meter Caution Statements The following equipment cautions appear in the text and are repeated here for emphasis. CAUTION Pin 4 must be connected to power supply ground, other grounds can be left open if desired. See page 3 CAUTION DB9 are not serial connections. Serial connections to them could damage the equipment. See page 6 CAUTION A Bird Calibration Kit is recommended for this procedure. Performing a calibration with anything other than a Bird Calibration Kit voids Bird’s accuracy guarantee. Performing a field calibration will void any remaining warranty on this product. Bird recommends waiting until the terms of the warranty have passed before performing a field calibration. See page 7 CAUTION Do not use harsh or abrasive detergents for cleaning. See page 17...
Safety Precautions Safety Statements USAGE ANY USE OF THIS INSTRUMENT IN A MANNER NOT SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER MAY IMPAIR THE INSTRUMENT’S SAFETY PROTECTION. EL USO DE ESTE INSTRUMENTO DE MANERA NO ESPECIFICADA POR EL FABRICANTE, PUEDE ANULAR LA PROTECCIÓN DE SEGURIDAD DEL INSTRUMENTO.
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Transmitter Power Monitor/Meter SERVICE SERVICING INSTRUCTIONS ARE FOR USE BY SERVICE - TRAINED PERSONNEL ONLY. TO AVOID DANGEROUS ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT PERFORM ANY SERVICING UNLESS QUALIFIED TO DO SO. SERVICIO LAS INSTRUCCIONES DE SERVICIO SON PARA USO EXCLUSIVO DEL PERSONAL DE SERVICIO CAPACITADO. PARA EVITAR EL PELIGRO DE DESCARGAS ELÉCTRICAS, NO REALICE NINGÚN SERVICIO A MENOS QUE ESTÉ...
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Safety Precautions RF VOLTAGE MAY BE PRESENT IN RF ELEMENT SOCKET - KEEP ELEMENT IN SOCKET DURING OPERATION. DE LA TENSION H.F. PEAT ÊTRE PRÉSENTE DANS LA PRISE DE L'ÉLÉMENT H.F. - CONSERVER L'ÉLÉMENT DANS LA PRISE LORS DE L'EMPLOI. HF-SPANNUNG KANN IN DER HF-ELEMENT-BUCHSE ANSTEHEN - ELEMENT WÄHREND DES BETRIEBS EINGESTÖPSELT LASSEN.
Transmitter Power Monitor/Meter About This Manual This manual covers the operating and maintenance instructions for the following models: All TPM series 3140A4 3140A8 Changes to this Manual We have made every effort to ensure this manual is accurate. If you discover any errors, or if you have suggestions for improving this manual, please send your comments to our Solon, Ohio factory. This manual may be periodically updated. When inquiring about updates to this manual refer to the part number and revision on the title page. Terminology There are some unique terms used throughout this literature. They are defined here clarify any misunderstanding. TPM — Refer to the in‐line Transmitter Power Monitor. Display or Panel Meter — Refers to either the 3140A4 or 3140A8 meter.
Chapter 1 Introduction TPM7 3140 Panel TPM1 Calibrated coupling ports and accurate power measurement combined in the same unit provides for easy use and accurate readings. The TPM is the first inline power monitor that can be calibrated in‐line and on site minimizing downtime and optimizing on‐air time. In addition, a simplified interface allows for a high level of customization and integration. Purpose and Function The TPM is used to measure power signals in broadcast systems. It is used directly in line with the system being tested. It’s output provides a linear DC voltage output from 0 to 4 volts allowing for a wide variety of interface options. It’s in‐line calibration capability allows for greater accuracy in a single application (with an accurate power reference) and its integrated non‐ directional coupler allows for signal analysis in minimal space requirements. It is available in 7/8”, 1 5/8”, and 3 1/8”, 50 ohm lines for FM, VHF, and UHF broadcast frequencies. When combined with a Bird model 3140A4 or 3140A8 Transmit Power Meter (TPM) display, a complete adjustment system is achieved. The display supplies a visual indication of Forward and Reflected power being sampled by the inline TPM. Multiple TPM’s can be selected (only one per channel setting) to give the operator an overall condition of the transmitter system.
Chapter 2 Installing & Operating Instructions - TPM Figure 2 Calibration Cover FWD Port Test To Source Port Port TPM1 Shown Communication Connector Operation LED Calibration Cover To Load Note: Figure shown with terminations assembled. Note: The label on the top of the unit identifies the connectors and ports. They are defined as follows: Connect to the source of the RF signal (transmitter side) SOURCE Connect to the load of the RF signal (antenna/dummy load) LOAD The forward directional coupler port. Terminate this port in FORWARD 50 ohms at all times.
Transmitter Power Monitor/Meter Installing the TPM The TPM has two RF connectors (Source and Load) that connect to the transmission line, three test port connectors that are type N female connectors (Forward, Reflected, and Test), and one nine‐pin sub‐miniature communication connector (DB‐9 Male). 1. Do the following: Connect the RF connector labeled Source to the transmitter side of the transmission line. Connect the RF connector labeled Load to the antenna or load side of the transmission line. Use an appropriate coupling kit to secure the TPM in place. 2. Connect the DB‐9 connector to a single channel on Model 3140A power meter panel, or to an alternate appropriate power supply and voltmeters that will indicate the forward and reflected power. Note: The chart below Figure 2 identifies the signals on each pin of the DB‐9 connector. Figure 4 DB-9 Connector Pin 4 - Power Supply Ground CAUTION Pin 4 must be connected to power supply ground, other grounds can be left open if desired. Description Forward Voltage Output, 0 to 5 VDC, 1.0 kohm impedance Ground Reflected Voltage Output, 0 to 5 VDC, 1.0 kohm impedance Power Supply Ground...
Installing & Operating Instructions ‐ TPM Normal Operation Note: Coupler ports must be terminated to ensure accurate power measurements. Terminate both forward and reflected coupler ports in 50 ohms. Failure to terminate these ports will result in inaccurate power measurements. 1. Install the TPM to the transmission line. See "Installing the TPM" on page 2. Apply DC input power to the TPM. 3. Apply RF power to the TPM. 4. Use a voltmeter to measure the forward voltage and reflected voltage. Note: These voltages will be between 0 V (no power) and 4.0 V (full scale power). The forward and reflected voltages are linear. Note: The full scale reflected power is 1/10 the value of the full scale forward power.
Chapter 3 Installing & Operating Instructions - 3140A Panel The 3140A is the standard display and power supply for the TPM. It comes in both 4 Channel TPM and 8 Channel TPM models. It fits in a standard 2U rack and requires a single 15V power supply (supplied with panel). Figure 5 3140 Panel Meter Zero Calibrate Adjustment Switch Meter Adjustment Meter Front View RFL Meter Switch Notation Area Channel Selector Power Note: 3140A8 shown. Button Zero Meter Meter DB9 Connections Calibrate Adjustment...
Installing & Operating Instructions ‐ 3140A Panel CAUTION DB9 are not serial connections. Serial connections to them could damage the equipment. FWD/RFL Meter Provides visual indication of measured power for selected TPM. Meter Adj Pot Provides full scale meter calibration. Selects either one of four (3140A4) or one of eight (3140A8) Channel Selector connected TPM’s. Power Button Applies DC input power to panel meter. Zero Calibrate Grounds pin 9 to Zero calibrate the selected TPM. Switch Interface connection to TPM’s. Provides power and Zero adjust to DB9 Connection connected TPM’s. Receives TPM output to drive meters. Installing the Panel 1. Place panel in an empty slot on the rack and attach with mounting screws (optional). 2. Connect the panel to a power supply. 3. Attach a TPM to one of the available channels on the back of the panel. 4. Label what TPM is attached to which channel in the switch notation area on the front of the panel. Note: User should note each unit’s full scale power and location in the notation area. Use a water soluble marker to avoid permanent entries. 5. Repeat steps 3 through 5 for other TPM’s, if necessary. 6. Turn the panel on. Note: All TPMs are powered, but only one TPM output is dis‐...
Chapter 4 Calibration CAUTION A Bird Calibration Kit is recommended for this procedure. Performing a calibration with anything other than a Bird Calibration Kit voids Bird’s accuracy guarantee. Performing a field calibration will void any remaining warranty on this product. Bird recommends waiting until the terms of the warranty have passed before performing a field calibration. Every calibration procedure will finish by providing a table of voltages that correspond to power levels at the calibration frequency (f ). It will be up to the user to use those voltages to generate an equation or fill in a look up table on whatever they choose to use as an output. Zero Calibrating Note: This procedure can be performed any time the RF is off and the TPM is on. There is no need to cycle power again on the TPM. 1. Do one of the following: Locate pin 9 on the TPM’s DB9 connector and short it to ground. If connected to a display panel, press the zero calibration switch. Refer to Figure 4 for Zero Calibration Switch location. Note: Zero calibrate will set both the FWD and RFL at the same time. Figure 7 Pin 9 Pin 9...
Calibration Passive Calibration Calibrate the TPM on the transmitter it is monitoring. Also a reference power meter is needed to measure the output of the test port on the TPM (model 7006A250). This calibration can be performed while transmitting on air (forward only) or into a dummy load. Coupling calibration data for the TPM is also needed. By using several different power levels, an equation or lookup table can be generated for the voltage output of the TPM as a function of power level at the frequency of calibration. 1. Install the TPM to the transmission line. See "Installing the TPM" on page 2. Remove the load from the Fwd testport. 3. Connect the calibration standard to the Fwd testport. 4. Apply RF power. 5. Record the transmitter frequency displayed and find the listing closest to it on the TPM’s coupling calibration data card. Note: Make note of the calibration factor. 6. Enter the calibration factor into the calibration standard’s offset function. 7. Measure the power on the calibration standard and voltage on the TPM output simultaneously. 8. Record the voltage verses power. 9. Turn the unit around and repeat steps 1 to 7 for Reflected calibration. Note: Reflected full scale is 1/10th of forward full scale. Note: Calibrating the reflected port is often optional. Check with the FCC or other ruling body to determine if it is necessary or not. Figure 8 Calibration Forward Calibration Set‐Up Connector...
Transmitter Power Monitor/Meter Active Calibration The active method will recalibrate the TPM completely. This procedure will void the calibration and accuracy specifications for the unit. The accuracy will be based on the accuracy of the reference power meter used for this procedure. In addition to the equipment needed for the active calibration, a Bird 6A340‐ADJ Potentiometer Adjustment Tool to adjust the potentiometers on the TPM is also needed. Set the transmitter’s RF output to a desired power level using the reference meter on the test port and the test port calibration data. Then, using a Bird 6A340‐ADJ Potentiometer Adjustment Tool, turn the potentiometers until the desired voltage output is reached. Extra data points can be taken at different power levels to confirm the linearity and generate a lookup table to drive the rest of the power levels. The benefit of this calibration method is that the customer can set the output voltage they want to drive their external meter. With the other calibration methods, the customer simply uses TPM output voltages as set at the factory. 1. Install the TPM to the transmission line. See "Installing the TPM" on page 2. Remove the load from the Fwd testport. 3. Connect the calibration standard to the Fwd testport. 4. Apply RF power. 5. Record the transmitter frequency displayed and find the listing closest to it on the TPM’s calibration data card. Note: Make note of the calibration factor. 6. Enter the calibration factor into the calibration standard’s offset function. 7. Break the seal over the Fwd Cal hole. 8. Adjust the potentiometer manually until the voltage is such that the calibration standard reads full scale power = 4.00V. Example: If the power is exactly 50% of full scale, adjust the potentiometer to get ...
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Calibration Figure 9 Calibration Data Card Rfl Coupling Offset at 195 MHz Transmitter Frequency Fwd Coupling Offset at 195 MHz...
Chapter 5 Performance Specifications Transmitter Power Meter (TPM) Model Naming Table Line Size and Interface Frequency Power Style Band* Range Sub-Band 7xy = 7/8” with QC connectors, where x is the input connector and y is the output connector. Possible values of x and y are: A =N(F) B = N(M) C = LC(F) D = 7/8” Flange H = 7‐16 V = Very Low J = 7‐16 DIN(M) L = 54 ‐ 88 MHz A = 470 ‐ 554 MHz DIN(F) L = Low F = 88 ‐ 108 MHz B = 554 ‐ 638 MHz K = UHF(F) L = UHF(M) M = Medium H = 174 ‐ 216 MHz C = 638 ‐ 722 MHz...
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10.0 High 25.0 Very High 50.0 RF Specs Reflected full scale power is 1/10 of forward full scale FWD / RFL Ratio power. Peak/Average Ratio 10 dB min* Main Line Insertion Loss 0.2 dB max, 0.08 dB typical Main Line VSWR 1.1 max Testport VSWR 1.5 max, 1.3 typical ± 5% of reading (2s) after zeroing sensor, if calibrated by Bird. This does not include user mismatch uncertainty and Accuracy user voltmeter uncertainty. If not calibrated by Bird, add the uncertainty of the calibration method and reference standard. Derate accuracy by 1% if not at 25 ± 10 °C. Dynamic Range 16 dB min Directivity, Rfl 26 dB min, 30 dB typical Measurement type In‐line, true‐average power Unit can be calibrated by user by adjusting pot to get 4V Calibration output for a full scale RF input. Recommended Cal Interval 1 year Note: Peak to Average ratio is specified based on the full scale power of the specific TPM model. For example, a TPM with a full scale forward power rating of 1 kW will provide accurate readings ...
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Transmitter Power Monitor/Meter Interface Specs Main line Diameters and center conductor setbacks per Bird drawings. Connectors One DB9(M), three N(F) DB9 connector pinout Analog output for forward RF power. 0 – 5.0 Vdc proportional to RF Pin 1 = “FWD” power, 1 kohm impedance. full scale RF input = 4.0V output. Analog output for reflected RF power. 0 – 5.0 Vdc proportional to RF Pin 3 = “RFL” power, 1 kohm impedance. full scale RF input = 4.0V output. Pin 5 = “Power” Power supply input. +11 to +18 Vdc, < 0.1 A. Short this pin to ground to zero out any input offsets. Pin 9 = “Zeroline” Normally floating. Unit can be zeroed whenever the unit is powered up and there is no RF power being applied. Pins 2,4,6–8 = GND Ports are labeled Forward, Test, and Reflected. Forward and reflected testports include attached loads. These testports must be terminated with the load, or some other good termination such as a N(F) Testports power sensor, during normal operation to prevent measurement errors. Loads can removed from the unit if desired without affecting calibration. Forward Testport output is a sample of the forward RF signal. Test Testport output is a non‐directional sample of the RF. Reflected Testport output is a sample of the reflected RF signal. Environmental Specs Temperature, Operating 0 to +50 °C (32 to 122 °F) ...
Performance Specifications 3140A Meter Panel General Specs Provide power to multiple TPM units. Display Fwd and Rfl Function readings from one of the connected TPMs, chosen with a switch. Models 3140A4 Supports up to 4 TPMs 3140A8 Supports up to 8 TPMs Two backlit analog meters. One displays forward power as measured on the selected TPM, the other displays reflected Display power. Which TPM’s readings are displayed on the meters is controlled by a switch on the front panel. Units are provided with Bird 5A2436 power supply. 5A2436 requires 115/230 Vac @ 50/60 Hz, < 1.0 A Power requirements Panel requires 11 to 16 Vdc, < 1.0 A. Jack connector is compatible with 5A2436. TPM Connectors DB9(F), either 4 or 8 connectors on the back panel DB9 Pinout Same as TPM DB9 pinout Panel Meters can be calibrated independently of the TPMs. Calibration There is one user‐adjustable pot for each meter. Environmental Specs Temperature, Operating 0 to +50 °C (32 to 122 °F) Temperature, Storage –20 to +80 °C (–4 to +176 °F) Altitude, Max 3,000 m (10,000 ft) above sea level ...
Chapter 6 Maintenance Inspection and Cleaning This unit requires only simple and routine maintenance. WARNING Disconnect the unit from the RF power source and the ac line before any disassembly. The potential for electrical shock exists. CAUTION Do not use harsh or abrasive detergents for cleaning. 1. Wipe off dust and dirt regularly. Use a soft, clean cloth dampened with mild detergent. Check connectors, connector pins, and cables for damage. If needed, clean the connectors using a self‐drying contact cleaner that leaves no residue. ROHS Part Toxic or hazardous Substances and Elements Name Lead Mercury Cadmium Hexavalent Polybro- Polybro- (Pb) (Hg) (Cd) Chromium minated minated (Cr(VI)) biphenyls diphenyl (PBB)
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Maintenance Line Section Max Power vs. Frequency 10000 1000 6 1/8" 6-1/8 4-1/16" & 4-1/2" 3-1/8" 1-5/8" 7/8" 1000 10000 Frequency (MHz)
Transmitter Power Monitor/Meter Troubleshooting The TPM has no operator serviceable parts. Any required service must be performed at an authorized service facility. The table below contains troubleshooting information for problems which can occur during normal operation. This manual cannot list all malfunctions that may occur or their corrective actions. If a problem is not listed or is not corrected by the listed actions, notify a qualified service center. Transmitter Power Monitor Problem Possible Cause Correction Check power source, No DC power and cable Power LED does not Return the unit to an illuminate Defective LED authorized service center Dirty connectors Clean connectors Defective connectors Replace connectors High VSWR Shorted or open Have the line serviced. transmission line 3140 Panel Problem Possible Cause Correction Set AC Power Switch to Unit is not turned on Display does not light Unit is not plugged in Connect ac power cord...
Maintenance Parts List Customer Replacement Part Consists of Description 7006B112 Digital PC Board RPK7006B112 ‐ Replacement Digital Board 920‐RPK7006B112 Instruction Sheet 7006A109 Metal Lid 7006A124 Label RPK7006A1000 ‐ Replacement Lid 5A2833‐LPC020CTP Light Pipe 5A2833‐RTN150 Rubber Ring 920‐RPK7000A1000 Instruction Sheet 2‐T‐MN‐2 ‐ Replacement 2‐T‐MN‐2 Terminations Terminations 5A2211‐2 ‐ Replacement 5A2211‐2 Data Calibration Data 5A2264‐09‐MF‐25 Cable, 9‐pin Male/ 5A2264‐09‐MF‐25 Replacement Cable Female, 25 ft 6A340‐ADJ ‐ Calibration 6A340‐ADJ Calibration Tool Adjustment Tool...
Transmitter Power Monitor/Meter Customer Service Any maintenance or service procedure beyond the scope of those in this chapter should be referred to a qualified service center. If the unit needs to be returned for any reason, request an Return Material Authorization (RMA) through the Bird Technologies website. All instruments returned must be shipped prepaid and to the attention of the RMA number. Bird Service Center 30303 Aurora Road Cleveland (Solon), Ohio 44139‐2794 Fax: (440) 248‐5426 E‐mail: bsc@birdrf.com For the location of the Sales Office nearest you, visit our Web site at: http://www.birdrf.com...
Limited Warranty All products manufactured by Seller are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year, unless otherwise specified, from date of shipment and to conform to applicable specifications, drawings, blueprints and/or samples. Seller’s sole obligation under these warranties shall be to issue credit, repair or replace any item or part thereof which is proved to be other than as warranted; no allowance shall be made for any labor charges of Buyer for replacement of parts, adjustment or repairs, or any other work, unless such charges are authorized in advance by Seller. If Seller’s products are claimed to be defective in material or workmanship or not to conform to specifications, drawings, blueprints and/or samples, Seller shall, upon prompt notice thereof, either examine the products where they are located or issue shipping instructions for return to Seller (transportation‐ charges prepaid by Buyer). In the event any of our products are proved to be other than as warranted, transportation costs (cheapest way) to and from Seller’s plant, will be borne by Seller and reimbursement or credit will be made for amounts so expended by Buyer. Every such claim for breach of these warranties shall be deemed to be waived by Buyer unless made in writing within ten (10) days from the date of discovery of the defect. The above warranties shall not extend to any products or parts thereof which have been subjected to any misuse or neglect, damaged by accident, rendered defective by reason of improper installation or by the performance of repairs or alterations outside of our plant, and shall not apply to any goods or parts thereof furnished by Buyer or acquired from others at Buyer’s request and/or to Buyer’s specifications. Routine (regularly required) calibration is not covered under this limited warranty. In addition, Seller’s warranties do not extend to the failure of tubes, transistors, fuses and batteries, or to other equipment and parts manufactured by others except to the extent of the original manufacturer’s warranty to Seller. The obligations under the foregoing warranties are limited to the precise terms thereof. These warranties provide exclusive remedies, expressly in lieu of all other remedies including claims for special or consequential damages. SELLER NEITHER MAKES NOR ASSUMES ANY OTHER WARRANTY WHATSOEVER, WHETHER EXPRESS, STATUTORY, OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS, AND NO PERSON IS AUTHORIZED TO ASSUME FOR SELLER ANY OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY NOT STRICTLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOREGOING.
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