BIRD THRULINE 43 Instruction Book
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. BIRD Manuals
  4. Measuring Instruments
  5. Thruline 43
  6. Instruction book

BIRD THRULINE 43 Instruction Book

Rf directional thruline wattmeter
Hide thumbs Also See for THRULINE 43:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

INSTRUCTION BOOK
RF DIRECTIONAL
THRULINE® WATTMETER
MODEL 43
Also Covers Models 4431, 43P
And Series 4300 and 4520
©Copyright 2009 by Bird Electronic Corporation
Instruction Book Part Number 920-43 Rev. J
Thruline® and Termaline® are registered trademarks
of Bird Electronic Corporation

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the THRULINE 43 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Related Manuals for BIRD THRULINE 43

Summary of Contents for BIRD THRULINE 43

  • Page 1 INSTRUCTION BOOK RF DIRECTIONAL THRULINE® WATTMETER MODEL 43 Also Covers Models 4431, 43P And Series 4300 and 4520 ©Copyright 2009 by Bird Electronic Corporation Instruction Book Part Number 920-43 Rev. J Thruline® and Termaline® are registered trademarks of Bird Electronic Corporation...
  • Page 2 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK...

  • Page 3: Safety Precautions

    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 WARNING Shock Hazard is present. WARNING WARNING Safety Earth Ground Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Safety Precautions...

  • Page 4: Safety Symbols

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Personnel working with or near high voltages should be familiar with modern methods of resuscitation. Observe general safety precautions. Do not open the instrument Safety Symbols Warning notes call attention to a procedure, which if not correctly performed, could result in personal injury.

  • Page 5: Caution Statements

    Handle elements with care. Calibration could be disturbed if they On page 17. Do not attempt to remove the RF center conductor. This will On page 29. WARNING WARNING CAUTION wattmeter could result. CAUTION are dropped. CAUTION damage the line section. Bird Model 43 Wattmeter...

  • Page 6: Safety Statements

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter 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.
  • Page 7 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter 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.
  • Page 8 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter 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.

  • Page 9: About This Manual

    Theory of Operation — Describes how the 43 Wattmeter works and Installation — Describes how to set up and prepare the 43 Wattmeter for use. Operation - All instructions necessary to operate the equipment appears in this chapter. 4301 4305A 4526 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter About This Manual 4431 4527...
  • Page 10 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Maintenance — Lists routine maintenance tasks as well as trouble- shooting for common problems. Model Differences — Describes how each indivdual models vary from each other. Specifcations — Specifications and parts information are included in this chapter.

  • Page 11: Table Of Contents

    Safety Precautions ........i Safety Symbols.
  • Page 12 Chapter 5 Model Differences ......35 Bird 43P Peak Wattmeter ....... . 35 Operation .
  • Page 13 Bird 4520 Series Thruline Wattmeters ..... 43 Installation ......... 43 Operation .

  • Page 15: Introduction

    43 apply to other models also. Performance Characteristics and Capabilities The Bird 43 is portable, with an attached carrying strap. It has an aluminum housing and an easily removed back cover, with bumpers on the base and back that allow the meter to stand or lie flat. For additional protection, the microammeter is specially shock mounted.
  • Page 16 At each end of the line section are Bird Quick-Change RF connectors that may be interchanged with any other Bird “QC” connector. The wattmeter housing does not interfere with connector changes.
  • Page 17 Figure 2 Bird 43 Thruline Wattmeter Outline Drawing Bird Model 43 Wattmeter...
  • Page 18 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter...

  • Page 19: Chapter 1 Theory Of Operation

    Forward Reflected Note: Z section. For useful lines it is usually a pure resistance of 50 ohms. The RF circuit of the Bird 43 is a length of uniform air line with Z and current I in phase, with E...

  • Page 20: Coupling Circuit

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Coupling Circuit The coupling circuit that samples the travelling waves is in the Bird Plug-In Element. The element circuitry and its relationship to the rest of the Bird 43 are illustrated in Figure 3. Figure 3...

  • Page 21: Load Power

    ). When appreciable power is reflected, as with an antenna, it is necessary to use the exact load power which is given by: WattsIntoLoad – Good load resistors, such as Bird Termaline loads, will give negligible reflected power. ρ φ) Standing Wave vs.
  • Page 22 N VSWR scales and their attendant controls for setting the reference point have been intentionally omitted from the Bird 43. Experience using the Thruline Wattmeter for transmitter tune-up, antenna matching, etc. will show that the power ratio measurement is as use- ful in practice as the standing wave ratio.
  • Page 23 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Figure 4 Percent Reflected Power vs. VSWR (1.0 – 1.3)
  • Page 24 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Figure 5 Percent Reflected Power vs. VSWR (1.0 – 8.0)

  • Page 25: Low Reflection Measurements

    This method should not be used with element ranges differing by more than 10:1. Example - Consider an 80 watt transmitter and a Bird 43 with 100 and 10 watt elements. Measure W ment.

  • Page 26: Component Testing

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Component Testing The Bird 43 is very helpful in component testing, and may be employed in several ways: • VSWR or φ may be measured by placing the component under test between the wattmeter and a good load resistor.

  • Page 27: Frequency Response

    Frequency Response Bird Plug-In Elements have a flat frequency response over their speci- fied operating range. A sample set of curves is shown in Figure 6. Notice that for the low power element, the rolloff outside its frequency band is more pronounced than for the high power elements.
  • Page 28 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Figure 6 Representative Frequency Response These curves are typical for all element types (H, A, B, C, D, ...) at their respective frequencies. Since a C type element has a frequency range of 100 - 250 MHz, response curves for other element types can be approximated by replacing the 100 and 250 MHz points on the chart with the extremes of the element’s frequency range, and recalc-...

  • Page 29: Impedance Mismatch

    Impedance Mismatch There may be cases where it is necessary to use the Bird 43 with a non-50 ohm transmission line. If the reflected power is less than 10% and the frequency is below 200 MHz, the resulting mismatch will not be too serious.
  • Page 30 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter...

  • Page 31: Chapter 2 Installation

    Chapter 3 When transporting the Bird 43, insert the original dust plug, or an ele- ment with the arrow pointing upward, in the element socket and secure with the catch. This will shunt the meter circuit and protect the meter by dampening needle action during handling and shipping.

  • Page 32: Replacing Quick-Change Connectors

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter The Bird 43 is normally supplied with Quick-Change Female N type connectors. Other Bird “QC” connectors are available, refer to the Replacement Parts List in the Maintenance Chapter. Replacing Quick-Change Connectors 1. Remove the 8-32 screw at each corner of the connector 2.
  • Page 33 The RF line section of the Bird 43 lends itself very readily to panel mounting. A layout for the panel cut is given in Figure 7. The thick- ness of the panel should be about ⁄ inch. On thinner panels, build up the thickness with pads or washers to achieve a flush-face mounting.
  • Page 34 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter...

  • Page 35: Chapter 3 Operating Instructions

    100 volts. Do not touch the center conductor while RF power is on. The Bird 43 uses plug-in elements to make measurements. The ele- ment’s frequency range and maximum power are listed on its label.
  • Page 36 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Figure 8 Element Direction When readings are being made with the wattmeter connected to an auxiliary RF line section, do not put an element in the unused line sec- tion. Otherwise, the DC circuit will be unbalanced or shorted, causing inaccurate or zero power readings.
  • Page 37 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Figure 9 VSWR Conversion Graph (Reflected Power 0.2 – 20.0)
  • Page 38 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Figure 10 VSWR Conversion Graph (Reflected Power 0.01 – 1.00)

  • Page 39: Load Matching

    Load Matching When a Bird 43 is used to tune a load to a transmitter and a good match is obtained, removing the unit will not change the match qual- ity. A good 50 ohm load can terminate a 50 ohm transmission line of any length without altering conditions at the transmitter.
  • Page 40 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Figure 11 Cable Length / Wavelength Matching...

  • Page 41: Chapter 4 Maintenance

    Chapter 5 The rugged and simple design of the Bird 43 means that it requires minimal routine maintenance. Troublehshooting The following table contains troubleshooting information for problems that can occur during normal operation. Find the problem on the table, review possible causes, and perform the corrective action listed.

  • Page 42: Cleaning

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Problem Intermittent or inconsistent meter reading High VSWR or reflected power Cleaning It is important to keep the following surfaces clean: • Socket bore • DC contacts on the element • Teflon insulators If any of the contacts or line connectors are dirty, clean them with a cotton swab dipped in commercial contact cleaner or isopropyl alcohol.

  • Page 43: Contact Adjustment

    3. Replace the assembly. Note: Make sure that the bead is properly inserted) and the two screws. CAUTION damage the line section. Bird Model 43 Wattmeter...

  • Page 44: Zero Adjust

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Zero Adjust The meter’s zero setting should be checked when no RF power is pres- ent. When no power is applied the pointer should rest exactly on zero. If adjustment is required, turn the adjustment screw until the pointer is set at zero (see Figure 12).

  • Page 45: Customer Service

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Customer Service If you need to return the unit for any reason, contact the Bird Service Center for a return authorization. All instruments returned must be shipped prepaid and to the attention of Bird Service Center:...

  • Page 46: Bird 43 Replacement Parts List

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Bird 43 Replacement Parts List Note: See “Customer Replacement Parts” on page 42 Description Housing Assembly Cover Assembly Line Section Assembly Carrying Strap Dust Plug, Aluminum DC Connector Assembly DC Connector Microammeter Coaxial Cable Assembly Turnbutton...

  • Page 47: Bird 43 Replacement Parts List

    Bird 43 Replacement Parts List Customer Replacement Part RPK43-1 - Housing Kit RPK43-2 - Rear Cover Kit RPK43-3 - Line Section Kit RPK43-4 - Meter Kit RPK43-5 - External Hardware Kit Consists of 4210-018 Housing 923-RPK43-1 Instruction Sheet 4210-005-1 Cover...

  • Page 48: Available "Qc" Type Connectors

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Available “QC” Type Connectors Connector BNC-Female BNC-Male C-Female C-Male HN-Female HN-Male LC-Female LC-Male LT-Female LT-Male Mini UHF-Female N-Female N-Male Part Number 4240-125 Open Term. # 10-32 Nut 4240-132 SC-Female 4240-100 SMA-Female 4240-110 SMA-Male 4240-268 TNC-Female 4240-278...

  • Page 49: Chapter 5 Model Differences

    Chapter 6 Bird 43P Peak Wattmeter The Bird 43P Thruline Wattmeter is the same as the Bird 43, with the added capability of measuring peak power in AM, SSB, and some pulse applications. A conversion kit (P/N 4300-400) is available to give peak reading capability to any standard Bird 43.

  • Page 50: Rectangular Pulses

    2. Grasp the back cover by the side tabs behind the line connectors and pull straight back to remove it. 3. Insert the Bird 43P between a reliable CW signal source and a 50 ohm load. 4. Insert an element with the appropriate power and frequency range into the Bird 43P.

  • Page 51: Maintenance

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Maintenance Maintenance of the Bird 43P is the same as for the Bird 43 except for battery replacement. Battery life should typically be 48 hours. If the unit does not function properly in peak mode or if calibration cannot be achieved, the batteries may be low.

  • Page 52: Bird 4301 Thruline Wattmeter

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Bird 4301 Thruline Wattmeter The Bird 4301 Thruline Wattmeter is the same as the Bird 43 except for the following physical differences: The auxiliary DC connector on the Model 4301 can be used to connect to an accessory line section. Make the connection with a standard RG- 58/U cable.

  • Page 53: Bird 4305A Replacement Parts List

    Bird 4305A Replacement Parts List Customer Replacement Part RPK4305-1 - Housing Kit RPK4305-2 - Rear Cover Kit RPK4305-3 - Line Section Kit RPK4305-4 - Meter Kit RPK4305-5- External Hardware Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Consists of 4305A003 Housing, Meter Assembly RPK4305-5...

  • Page 54: Bird 4431 Thruline Wattmeter

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Bird 4431 Thruline Wattmeter The Bird 4431 RF Sampling Wattmeter is the same as the Bird 43 Thruline Wattmeter except for an RF signal sampler probe. The RF sampler provides a low power sample of the signal being transmitted through the wattmeter’s linesection.

  • Page 55: Maintenance

    Maintenance Do not make repairs to the probe assembly. If the sampler malfunc- tions, we recommend returning the unit to the Bird Service Center for repair. To replace the probe assembly, follow these instructions: 1. Access the probe by unscrewing the four 8-32 flat head screws that secure the back cover.

  • Page 56: Bird 4431 Replacement Parts List

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Bird 4431 Replacement Parts List Customer Replacement Parts Customer Replacement Part RPK4431-1 - Housing Kit RPK4431-2 - Guide Plate, Line Section Kit RPK4431-3 - Meter Kit RPK43-4 - Meter Kit RPK4431-4 - External Hardware Consists of...

  • Page 57: Bird 4520 Series Thruline Wattmeters

    Bird 4520 Series Thruline Wattmeters The Bird 4520 RF Thruline Wattmeters (models 4521, 4522, 4526, 4527) are the same as the Bird 43, except that they are panel mounted for rack installation. In addition, the Bird 4527 has a RF sampler.

  • Page 58: Bird 4520 Series Replacement Parts List

    Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Bird 4520 Series Replacement Parts List The mounting panel entry lists the panel styles for each model. Only parts which are not used on the Bird 43 are listed here. 4521 Replacement Parts Customer Replacement Part...
  • Page 59 4522 Replacement Parts Customer Replacement Part RPK4522-1 - Line Section Kit RPK4522-2 - Meter Kit RPK4522-3- External Hardware RPK4522-4 - Front Panel Kit Bird Model 43 Wattmeter Consists of 4522-002-7 Line Section Assembly 4304-026 Label, Mylar 923-RPK4522-1 Instruction Sheet 2080-002...
  • Page 60 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter 4526/27 Replacement Parts Customer Replacement Part RPK2080-002 Service Only Replacement Parts Replacement Part 4526-004 4527-005 4527-002 4430-002 Consists of 2080-002 Consists of 4526-004 4527-005 4527-002 4430-002 Description Meter 25/50-100W Description Panel Panel Line Section Assembly RF Cable Assembly...

  • Page 61: Chapter 6 Specifications

    Chapter 7 These specifications include data covering the Bird 43, 43P, 4305A, 4431, 4521, 4522, 4526, and 4527. Specifications for models not listed are identical to the Bird 43. Impedance, Nominal All models except 4431 4431 Primary Line RF Sampling...
  • Page 62 Bird Model 43 Wattmeter 4527 (approximate) 4431 (adjustable) 2 – 512 MHz 512 – 1000 MHz CW (all models) Peak Power (43P only) Power Requirement (43P only) Battery Life (43P only) 43, 43P 4305A 4431 4521/22/26/27 RF Coupling –53 dB, 512 – 10 MHz –70 dB, 10 –...
  • Page 63 200 MHz, and seven full turns above 800 MHz Weight, Nominal 3 lb. (1.36 kg) 4 lb. (1.8 kg) 3.5 lb. (1.59 kg) 3.25 lb. (1.47 kg) Grey Powder Coat Bird Model 43 Wattmeter...
  • Page 64 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;...
  • Page 65 The above warranties shall not extend to any products or parts thereof which have been subjected to any misuse or neglect, damaged by acci- dent, 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.

This manual is also suitable for:

Thruline 43Thruline 43pThruline 4431Thruline 4300aThruline 4301Thruline 4521 ... Show all

Table of Contents

Save PDF