[AMPS] Millen HV Connectors Factory Pricing

[Paul Christensen]

> [Steve Katz]  The cheap 4.2kV (yellow) ones are classified as
> non-hydroscopic mica-filled phenolic; the more expensive 7.2kV (red and
> black) one are classified as non-hydroscopic linked polytetraolefin (PTO), I
> believe...

Absolutely stay away from the lesser-rated Millen connectors in any HV application.  The first-generation Alpha amplifiers used
these connectors between the P.S. compartment and the R.F. deck.  Even with new connectors and 4 KV applied, all bets are off.  I
recall trying to localize a HV glitch problem in one of these amps and after unsuccessfully trying everything else, I decided to
bring-up the amp at low voltage (2.6 KV) with the top cover off and subsequently noted a blue corona around the connector.  I
ditched the Millen connector in favor of a glazed-porcelain feedthrough and have never experienced a single problem since.  Later
Alpha amplifiers simply passed the silicone HV wire through a chassis hole and rubber grommet.  This solved the flashover problem,
but made servicing difficult.  It's a shame that these connectors were manufactured by Millen: Every other item in their extensive
product line was designed and produced to perfection.

-Paul, W9AC



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