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[Amps] AL-80B Trouble

To: amps@contesting.com
Subject: [Amps] AL-80B Trouble
From: Mike Schlamp <w5cul@sbcglobal.net>
Date: Fri, 25 Aug 2006 08:28:05 -0700 (PDT)
List-post: <mailto:amps@contesting.com>
    Hi all,
       
      I am having my first problem with my AL-80B and I need some  help in 
isolating the trouble, along with some signal tracing data that is not  covered 
in the manual.  Below is a  synopsis of what is happening. 
       
      AMP: 3yr old AL-80B, Amperex 3-500ZG Installed, 110Vac  Primary, does not 
have the QSK kit installed.
       
      SYMPTOM:  With the standby  switch in standby, band-switch set for 80M, 
AC power applied to Amp, the meters  read ~2700Vdc (normal is ~3000Vdc), 150ma 
Ip, and the Ig is showing a negative  draw.  The Ig meter buries itself to the  
left.  After 2-3 minutes in this  condition, the plate is glowing reddish 
orange.   With the standby switch placed into operate, RF applied from the  
exciter, the exciter complains of High SWR and there is no RF power being 
produced  by the Amp.  With the band-switch placed  in any other position, the 
same symptoms apply.
       
      ASSUMPTION:  The  3-500ZG has a short, and or the tube is not receiving 
the proper bias voltage  during off periods .  The glowing while  in standby is 
due to the current draw across the plate; dissipating ~400W. 
       
      HELP: Is my assumption too far fetched?  If the tube is shorted, what 
could have  happened to cause this, considering the tube is only 3yrs of age?  
My fear is if I just replace the tube, I will  end up back to square one over 
time.  Is  there any trouble shooting guide regarding the Amp?  I am looking 
for a document or notes  indicating voltages, along with tips of what to look 
for.
       
      Thank you,
       
      Mike
      W5CUL
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