[Amps] LDMOS HF amps

[Don AD7LL]

    As my first retirement project I am hoping to build an LDMOS amp.
I have made the decision to go with a single device, a BLF189XRBU.  This is
the
same package as the more common BLF188, but rated at 1900 watts,   The hope
is
to achieve legal limit, or very close, output of 1500 and with using a
single device use a single
pallet with a simpler design.
    I am hoping to keep it simple with manually switched band changes and
such, and to build the LP filter and other sub-components myself.
  I am however looking at purchasing the pallet itself instead of designing
and building it from scratch.  I think that I am liking the designs by
4z4rb, although currently he doesn't have anything for sale, I had
contacted him and he said he had been sick.  That has been 2 or 3 weeks
back and  I haven't seen anything from him.  I am hoping he is ok and
recovering well!
  The W6PQL site has a lot of info and stuff available, but I'm not sure I
care for his output combiner design and the way they just sort of
flop around.

    SO down to my actual questions.  Who would be the best pallet design /
builder / supplier
currently available?  And why?  with the slight higher current draw and
such does anyone foresee any real issues with my using the 189 instead of
the 188?   Or should I bite the bullet and just design my own pallet from
scratch?

      As it is, I am just now trying to learn Kicad so that I can put
together my filters and such, but I really don't feel that I have the
ability to design the pallet itself.  As it is I am looking at this as a
long term project, but I would like to complete it before I die of old age !

      Thanks in advance for advice!
       73
        Don Frasher  AD7LL

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