SPE EXPERT 2K-FA User Manual

SPE EXPERT 2K-FA User Manual

2kw solid state fully automatic linear amplifier
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EXPERT 2K-FA
2KW SOLID STATE FULLY AUTOMATIC
LINEAR AMPLIFIER
USER'S MANUAL
Rev. 1.0

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  • Page 1 EXPERT 2K-FA 2KW SOLID STATE FULLY AUTOMATIC LINEAR AMPLIFIER USER’S MANUAL Rev. 1.0...
  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    INTERCONNECTION WITH THE TRANSCEIVER ..............12 USE OF THE LINEAR AMPLIFIER ....................13 SO2R (Single Operator Two Radio ) .................... 14 BAND-PASS FILTERS SET “SPE BPF1” ..................15 QSK (FULL BREAK-IN) OPERATION................... 17 REMOTABLE TUNER, UNIT “SPE RAT1”..................17 TUNEABLE ANTENNAS CONTROL .................... 17 SETTING UP A SINGLE ANTENNA FOR RECEPTION ..............
  • Page 3 User manual EXPERT 2K-FA USE OF THE USB PORT.......................47 15.1 REMOTE CONTROL........................47 15.2 DOWNLOAD...........................48 MAINTENANCE ..........................49 CHARACTERISTICS / SPECIFICATIONS ..................50 DIAGNOSTICS..........................52 TABLE ............................53 WARRANTY TERMS ........................54 REPAIR FORM..............................56 Pag. 3 di 3...
  • Page 4: Important

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA Congratulations for choosing the SPE EXPERT 2K-FA solid state linear amplifier: It is small and powerful, it covers all the amateurs bands from 1.8 to 54 MHz WARC included, completely automatically. All operating conditions (frequency, antenna, tuner etc.) are controlled from your transceiver.
  • Page 5 User manual EXPERT 2K-FA correct mains plug for your local electricity network, with the earth pin connected to that conductor. Do not disconnect this under any circumstances, or there is a risk of severe or fatal electric shock. WARNING! DO NOT use an extension cord with the AC power cable, as if it is not correctly rated there is a risk of fire or electric shock.WARNING!
  • Page 6 User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 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.
  • Page 7: Unpacking

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA UNPACKING Remove the packing and carefully check the contents. If you find any damage or if there are any parts missing, contact your retailer immediately. Keep the shipping cartons for future transportation if required. Accessories included in the carton a) Transport carry bag.
  • Page 8: Panel Description

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA PANEL DESCRIPTION Front Panel 1) ON 2) OFF 3) DISPLAY switches between display pages. 4) POWER switches output power from “MAX / MID / LOW“. 5) OPERATE switches between Standby / Operate. 6) SET used to program the amplifier.
  • Page 9: Rear Panel

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 1.2 Rear Panel 1) ANT connectors for six possible antennas. 2) SO2R connector for SO2R operations 3) INPUT connectors to connect two exciters. 4) FANS 5) IN 1 ALC, RELAY, CAT connectors for exciter 1. 6) IN 2 ALC, RELAY, CAT connectors for exciter 2.
  • Page 10: General Information

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA GENERAL INFORMATION (Read the specific chapters for more details). Power supply The linear uses a switching power supply with a continuous input between 190 and 255 Vac. The main switch [I/O] is located on the rear panel, in the [O] position all the internal...
  • Page 11 Most modern transceivers have CAT control. In old models often, analog or digital information are sent for changing band. The SPE Expert 2K-FA, thanks to an efficient frequency counter, constantly controls and verifies data coming from the transceiver.
  • Page 12: Interconnection With The Transceiver

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA INTERCONNECTION WITH THE TRANSCEIVER The diagram shows the connections with one transceiver only.To connect the second transceiver repeat the same connections using the port “IN 2“. For the ALC, RELAY connections, use the shielded cable (supplied) with phono RCA connectors.
  • Page 13: Use Of The Linear Amplifier

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA USE OF THE LINEAR AMPLIFIER Block diagram. The position of the contacts, as shown in the diagram, is the situation of the linear amplifier in OFF state. The linear amplifier can be used in the following ways:...
  • Page 14: So2R (Single Operator Two Radio )

    RTX1 and RTX2.. A careful design is needed to avoid such a danger which could be devastating for the receivers. This possibility is available with the optional external unit "SPE SO2R1" according to the following diagram. Pag. 14 di 14...
  • Page 15: Band-Pass Filters Set "Spe Bpf1

    In this case the amplifier is connected to a single transceiver (INPUT 1 / 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 unused.
  • Page 16 In this case the amplifier is connected to two transceivers. "SPE BPF1" automatically selects the right filters and the right inputs as well. These features can be possible also with the simultaneous use of the unit "SPE SO2R1, (use the AUX port with a Y cable).
  • Page 17: Qsk (Full Break-In) Operation

    - Simplification of wiring, the difficulty of adding an additional wiring to CAT input is removed. - Compatibility with all types of CAT, the Expert 2K-FA converts the CAT protocol, so two different transceivers (CATs) can be used simultaneously with the same controller.
  • Page 18 All of the automatic features of the linear are retained even in the most complex configurations, antennas of all kinds can be connected to the connectors "ANT", the Expert 2K-FA will choose the antennas according to the set-up and will manage them according to their characteristics.
  • Page 19: Setting Up A Single Antenna For Reception

    In some cases it may be appropriate to transmit with an antenna and receive with a more appropriate one. A unique feature allows the Expert 2K-FA to set a receiving antenna and to provide an its automatic switching after transmission.
  • Page 20: External Ground Connection

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA EXTERNAL GROUND CONNECTION WARNING! Before connecting an external ground as described below, check with a qualified electrician that your national wiring codes permit such a connection. To reduce TVI, BCI and other RF problems it is sometimes helpful to connect the amplifier to a good RF ground.
  • Page 21: Antenna

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA ANTENNA Because this is a high-power amplifier, it is necessary to use correctly-rated antennas, connectors and feedline cables. Take special care with antennas using baluns, traps, because balun / trap warming can occur during periods of high-power transmission and a high SWR can result.
  • Page 22: Power Supply

    EXPERT 2K-FA POWER SUPPLY The power supply of the SPE Expert 2K-FA, unique in its category, is switching with a PFC (Power Factor Correction) that allows a drastic reduction of the harmonic components in the mains in accordance with IEC555-2, it consists of two separate elements.
  • Page 23: Tuner (Atu)

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA TUNER (ATU) The amplifier has an automatic tuner that handles load mismatches up to 3:1 VSWR (2.5:1 for 6 m). The amplifier contains a look-up table with all the permitted bands. For tuner management, antenna data and other working data are stored.
  • Page 24 User manual EXPERT 2K-FA Note: ATTENTION: When the amplifier is either in “STANDBY” or “OPERATE” mode, always disable the automatic tuner in your transceiver. Note: ATTENTION: As two different tables are used for INPUT1 and INPUT2, it is necessary to make separate matching, for the same antenna, depending on the used input.
  • Page 25: Protections / Alarms

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA PROTECTIONS / ALARMS The SPE EXPERT 2K-FA has a sophisticated protection system that constantly controls the amplifier’s most important parameters. These parameters are: Temperature of the heatsink; max. / min. voltage on the PA; max. PA current; SWR;...
  • Page 26: Programming

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 10. PROGRAMMING The three [SET], [◄▲] and [▼►] keys, underlined with an orange line, permit programing the amplifier and they can be used in the following way: [SET] Use it to open the menu page, to validate the choices and to exit from the menu page.
  • Page 27 Select the brand or function, for the proper link see "CAT CONNECTIONS" on this manual. - SPE No further programming is necessary, all is already programmed for the SPE transceivers. - ICOM Set the “CI-V“ protocol, you also need to choose the baud rate which is usually 9600.
  • Page 28 User manual EXPERT 2K-FA c) MANUAL TUNE Allows you to tune the amplifier manually, however achieving a better setting than that obtained by automatic tuning is very unlikely. Set your exciter to transmit a continuous RTTY or CW signal. Press the [◄ L], [L ►], [◄ C], [C ►] keys until you obtain the minimum SWR.
  • Page 29: Initial Operation Of The Amplifier

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 11. INITIAL OPERATION OF THE AMPLIFIER Before turning ON the amplifier, the following preliminary operations are necessary: Read this manual with care. 1) Be sure that the amplifier is correctly set for the local mains voltage supply.
  • Page 30: Operating

    You need few precautions when using the amplifier thanks its high level of automation. ALC and CAT links are highly recommended. If ALC is not used, SPE reminds you that it is better to lose a fraction of dB in transmitted power, by slightly reducing the drive power, than to over-drive the amplifier and have a poor quality transmission.
  • Page 31: Setting Drive Levels

    Then, speaking into the microphone normally, set the” MIC GAIN” of the transceiver until the peak output power, on speech peaks, as shown on the amplifier display, is no more than 1 KW or 500W. SPE suggests you monitor your transmission to check that the “MIC GAIN” setting is correct.
  • Page 32: Connections

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 12. CONNECTIONS 12.1 CAT Connector In this diagram the rear panel CAT connector and pinouts are shown. If you have already used our 1K-FA amplifier you will note the connections are the same. pin n. pin name...
  • Page 33: Spe

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 12.2 SPE In the case of SPE transceivers, it isn’t necessary to make a cable because it is supplied with the transceiver. 12.3 ICOM CAT CI–V Interface RX TTL RADIO CONNECTOR DB15 M This interface is standard for all the Icom models equipped with CAT, the cable always terminates to a 3,5 mm.
  • Page 34: Kenwood

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 12.4 KENWOOD CAT RS232 Interface RX 232 TX 232 RX 232 (RXD) (TXD) TX 232 RADIO CONNECTOR DB15 M The Radio connector could be DB-9 or DB-25 male connector or female connector (read the specific manual). In the manual also verify if the RTS–CTS link is necessary.
  • Page 35: Yaesu

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 12.5 YAESU CAT RS232 Interface RX 232 TX 232 TX 232 (RXD) (TXD) RX 232 RADIO CONNECTOR DB15 M The radio connector may be a DB-9 or DB-25 male connector or female connector (read the specific manual). Verify from the manual if the RTS–CTS link is necessary.
  • Page 36: Band Data Interface

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA BAND DATA Interface BAND A BAND A BAND B BAND B BAND C BAND C BAND D BAND D RADIO CONNECTO DB15 M Without the CAT, the band is commanded by four digital signals (Band A, Band B, Band C, Band D).
  • Page 37: Alc With Flex-Radio

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA ALC with FLEX-RADIO. Since this equipment has no an analog ALC input, the maximum power limits for the transceiver must be programmed in order to avoid the EXPERT’s overdrive protection system intervention. These settings have to be done while in OPERATE Mode according to the following.
  • Page 38: Transceivers Of Other Brands

    A special link is not necessary as the internal amplifier frequency counter will measure the input frequency and will control the amplifier. Note: WARNING, SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface. Pag. 38 di 38...
  • Page 39: Other Connections

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 13. OTHER CONNECTIONS On the connector, in addition to the CAT signals, the ALC and RELAY signals are repeated, REMOTE ON, /TX–INH, TX–INH are also available. If you use this connector to connect the ALC and RELAY lines, separate phono cables are not necessary, or it may be possible to turn the amplifier on / off by turning on / off the transceiver (REMOTE ON).
  • Page 40: Connections / Tx-Inh, Tx-Inh

    All modern transceivers have a delay before the transmission to allow the linear to stabilize their relays avoiding damage to them and possible effects of "Hot Switching". The Expert 2K-FA has a settling time of only 6.5 msec compatible with all modern transceivers (see the manual of the transceiver).
  • Page 41: Aux Connector

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA /TX-INH Link Note: WARNING, SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface. 13.4 AUX Connector This connector provides data on the bandwidth currently used in the two INPUT, indicating which input is connected to the antenna ANT 1/2/3/4/5/6 and which is...
  • Page 42: Port Connector

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA Note: WARNING, SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface. 13.5 PORT Connector This connector provides: a) Data about the ANT port in use (each output is open collector). b) RS 232 port for connection to a controller of a tuneable antenna.
  • Page 43 EXPERT 2K-FA When connecting with a control box of a tuneable antenna an appropriate cable should be made. SteppIR cable Ultrabeam cable Note: WARNING, SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface. Pag. 43 di 43...
  • Page 44: Transceiver Controlled With A Pc

    If the transceiver is controlled with a PC using the CAT utility, the link with the amplifier can be made as described in the following paragraphs. Note: BEWARE, SPE assures only the direct connection between the Linear and the Transceiver. The use of external control software could create malfunctions that must be resolved by the provider of such software.
  • Page 45: Rs232 Interface

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA DO NOT CONNECT TX 232 (TX TTL) of the linear, the connection does not work because it would create conflict in the SW and could damage the hardware as well (see following fig.). 14.2 RS232 INTERFACE...
  • Page 46: Ttl Yaesu Interface

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 14.4 5V TTL YAESU INTERFACE YAESU RADIO CONNECTOR RX TTL TX TTL TTL INTERFACE DB15 M Note: WARNING, SPE is not responsible for any failure resulting from misuse of HW interface. Pag. 46 di 46...
  • Page 47: Use Of The Usb Port

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 15. USE OF THE USB PORT Through the USB port on the rear panel it is possibile to interface the amplifier with a Two features are possible: a) To remote the linear. b) To download the successive versions of SW.
  • Page 48: Download

    This software allows the same operation that would be when standing in front of the amplifier. 15.2 DOWNLOAD. The Expert 2K-FA allows you to download any new versions of SW from the site www.linear-amplifier.com , following easy and intuitive steps.
  • Page 49: Maintenance

    EXPERT 2K-FA 16. MAINTENANCE The Expert 2K-FA linear amplifier doesn’t need internal maintenance because it has a cover without ventilation holes. No tube-type EHT is used so the high voltages present in tube amplifiers, which sometimes attract dirt, are not present.
  • Page 50: Characteristics / Specifications

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 17. CHARACTERISTICS / SPECIFICATIONS - The smallest in its class. Built-in Power supply and Automatic Antenna Tuner.. Dimension: L 38, H 18.3, P 43 cm (14.96” W, 7.20” H,16.93” D) (connettors included). Weight: approx: 25 Kg.(55lbs).
  • Page 51 User manual EXPERT 2K-FA Spurious emissions less than -60 dB ( 50 MHz –65 dB ). 3rd order distortion (two tone test) 36 dB typ. - Input 50 ohm always perfectly matched SWR less than 1.2:1. - Fully protected Temperature, Over-Voltage, Over-Current, SWR, Reflected Power, Max RF Tuner Voltage, Over-Drive, Amp.
  • Page 52: Diagnostics

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA DIAGNOSTICS. During normal working, the system performs a continuous monitoring of some measurements directly acquired from certain internal test-points. When a dangerous situation is going to happen, a “serious” alarm message is raised and the working mode is switched from OPERATE to STANDBY.
  • Page 53: Table

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 19. TABLE BAND TABLE, SUB-BAND, CENTRAL FREQUENCY SUB-BAND [ 0] 1785 [ 1] 1795 [ 2] 1805 [ 3] 1815 [ 4] 1825 [ 5] 1835 [ 6] 1845 [ 7] 1855 [ 8] 1865 [ 9] 1875...
  • Page 54: Warranty Terms

    In order to not invalidate the warranty service, the original Purchaser must complete the warranty registration card, and send it to SPE no more than 30 days from the date of purchase. Unless otherwise agreed, the products will be delivered ex-works from the factory of the seller.
  • Page 55 User manual EXPERT 2K-FA 1. Improper maintenance or repair by persons not authorised by SPE to carry out such work, including the installation of parts or accessories that do not conform to the quality and specifications of the original parts.
  • Page 56: Repair Form

    User manual EXPERT 2K-FA REPAIR FORM MODEL ..... SERIAL NUMBER ....DATE ....
  • Page 57 User manual EXPERT 2K-FA s.r.l. Via di Monteverde, 33 00152 Rome (Italy) Tel. +390658209429 Fax. +390658209647 E-mail: info@linear-amplifier.com Website: http://www.linear-amplifier.com Pag. 57 di 57...

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