Download the 40 series datasheet @
https://www.findernet.com/en/unitedstates/products/families/18/series/40/documents
Specs say 2ms release and 5ms operate as typical numbers. The relays
look like copies of the Omron G2RL with 16A (low frequency ratings) and
non-bifurcated contacts.
Larry, W0QE
On 10/5/2018 6:23 PM, Jim Garland wrote:
I had a conversation with Nate, one of the sales reps for the new
FlexRadio "PowerGenius XL" solid state 2000W (ICAS) amplifier.
Unfortunately, I'm sorry to report that for CW operators such as
myself, the news is not very encouraging. The issues I inquired about
specifically were (1) T/R switching, (e.g., whether the amp used
vacuum relays or PIN diode switching); (2) Whether the 20 msec
"warning" the transceiver had to give the amplifier before sending RF
to it was really necessary. And (3) what the measured fan noise is and
whether the fan(s) used sleeve bearings (which to me normally means
low reliability) or high reliability ball bearings.
Nate tried to be helpful and did best he could, but couldn't provide
detailed answers on the spot. He promised to have one of the Flex
engineers call me, and I'll report back when I get the info. However,
I did learn that the amplifier uses non-vacuum, enclosed relays
manufactured by Finder, model 4052.9.012.0000, but I haven't been able
to track down the relay specs. The US distributor for Finder relays
appears to Platt Electric Co., an industrial electronics distributor
based in the western United States. Finder is a new name for me. The
company appears to make several small power plastic-encased relays
similar to other brands sold by Mouser, Digikey, Allied, etc.
Normally, one would want T/R switching time, including contact bounce
to be under roughly 10msec. Nate said that the amplifier is not
designed for QSK operation, which suggests that the T/R switching may
not be as quiet as many hams would like.
The PowerGenius XL was obviously designed to meet the needs of serious
SO2R contesters, but was evidently engineered without much input from
the (presumed much larger) pool of CW operators and contesters. To me
this problem is reminiscent of CW problems with some early Flex
models. Since then, Flex completely solved those problems with their
6000 Signature series of transceivers, which have superb CW
capabilities. I hope the CW issues with the new PowerGenius XL amplier
can also be addressed, because I've got my checkbook out and think it
would sure look swell on my operating desk next to my Flex 6300 and
6500 radios.
73,
Jim W8ZR
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