[Amps] 3CX3000A7 on 144 MHz

[Conrad PA5Y]

I have just acquired 2 x  3CX3000A7 and I would like to put one on 2m.



I have a few designs for but before I start I have 2 questions.



The Heater current is 7.5V @ 51A - does anyone use a switch mode PSU?  Not sure if Meanwell have anything suitable but that is where I would probably start. Otherwise I have no idea where to get a custom transformer wound in the Netherlands, which is where I live these days.



I do not want to run in AB2 all the time am I correct to assume that I can just switch in a Zener with a pass transistor to bias to class C? I have never used a zero bias tube before.



I could use a GM3SEK triode board of course!



I already have a 4.5kV supply that will drop down to 4.2kV on load, if anyone is using a 3CX3000A7 on VHF I would also like to know how much gain to expect. I do not expect the 144MHz performance to differ from that of 110 MHz based on observations with a YC-156.



Regards



Conrad PA5Y