Glenn--SORRY but I could not resist sending this note to
"James C. Hall, MD" <nwtcc@earthlink.net> and to
amps@contesting.com
Here it is so you are prepared for his call!
73--John
-------------------------------------------------
Jamie--
It's unfortunate that you did not read the manual in more detail.
When the 87A shuts down it stores a fault code as is described
in the manual. The next time you turn the 87A it will flash the
fault code on the front panel LEDs--giving you some idea of what the
problem is and allowing you to correct it before you try running the
amplifier again.
If you continue to ignore the fault code without correcting the
problem the 87A will finally go to fault 99 to protect itself from
just this type of action, ie--not correcting the fault and repeatedly
trying to operate the amp.
Now that it is giving you the 99 error code you have no information
on the cause of the problem and no way to remedy the problem
without contacting CrossLink.
This is only a guess--but one possible scenario is that the transformer
taps were not set properly for your AC mains voltage. When you
operated the amp the first time the AC mains was barely within the
acceptable range and when you came back hours later the line
voltage may have changed for whatever reason. Operating outside of
the proper tap setting can greatly reduce tube life due to unacceptably
high or low filament voltage. The 99 fault may have just saved you
$800 in tubes. Of course this is just one possible scenario--but one
I feel is likely because the amp faulted immediately, without application
of RF drive.
Contact Glenn at CrossLink and he should be able to walk you
through the problem. In the meantime you should read the section
in the manual on fault codes and probably double check your line
voltage and the tap settings.
Next time it faults, for whatever reason, make sure you determine
the fault code and take corrective action before repeatedly trying
to power up the amp.
Your wallet will appreciate your efforts! ;-)
73--John W0UN
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