[Amps] Amplifier Rule Changes in the new R&O

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> If they potted the microprocessor, all you'd need to do is 
> either cut or short out the control element it drives. 

If the controller controlled enough different aspects - like 
relay sequencing, bias switching, PTT enable - and the only 
PTT input was to the controller, it would be quite difficult 
(but not impossible) to bypass the controller.  

Some of the special purpose controller chips available today 
would be quite adequate and inexpensive for the purpose.  The 
could even be configured to count the frequency of the input 
and drop PTT/disable the amplifier if RF of the "right" 
frequency was not detected within 1 second of PTT activation. 

It is not even necessary to look for the "wrong" RF ... just 
failure to see the "right" RF.  

Some of the controllers even have internal clock generators 
that do not require external sources.  They would be relatively 
immune to clock tampering. 

73, 

   ... Joe, W4TV