[TenTec] Orion/AL-1200 QSK -- Hard lesson #1

[Paul Christensen, Esq.]

This is worth repeating...Ten-Tec's TX OUT/TX EN should only be used with
amps that support such a key loop structure.  Grant found out the hard way.

Unless one is using an amp which uses a send and return for the key loop
(e.g., Ten-Tec, ACOM), then it's best to use Ten-Tec's "Ext. T/R,"
especially with the newer Ten tecs since this provides for a fast, silent
QSK switch line to the amp.

It appears that Grant did in fact have a "Hot Switch" situation and the
Ameritron's QSK fuse lamps blew...which is much better than the PIN diodes.
I was asking last night if the AL-1200 is truly hot-switch protected.  It
appear to be in that it will blow the PIN fuses, but it will not correct for
hot-switching as do most Alpha and ACOM amps.  I hate to say I told 'ya so
but....

The Alpha mod just happens to work with Ten-Tec's and a "Y" adapter because
the Alpha 89 & 87 are smart-switching amps that correct for hot-switching
without the need for PIN protect fuses.

All Grant needed to do was to connect "Ext T/R" from the Orion to the
AL-1200's key line with one cable and no steering diodes or other voodoo
needed.

-Paul, W9AC


----- Original Message -----
From: "Billy Cox" <aa4nu at ix.netcom.com>
To: <tentec at contesting.com>
Sent: Saturday, March 29, 2003 15:50 PM
Subject: Re: [TenTec] Orion/AL-1200 QSK -- Hard lesson #1


> >If you don't have the amp powered on, you have to turn the keying
> >loop OFF -- and then remember to set it to ON again, the next time
> >the amp is powered up.  I think this demands a big sign on the amp
> >power switch ...
>
> Grant,
>
> Would you expand the above please ... as your saying that if you want
> to use the Orion, but with the AL1200 OFF ... you have to go into the
> Orion's MENU and turn the keying loop OFF also?
>
> That's a Uh-Oh .... None of the 'other three' require such to be done ...
>
> So rather than a big sign on the amp ... the EPROM in that $3.3k rig
> needs a bit more 'educating' ?   B-)  B-) B-) <note the smiles please>
>
> TU!
>
> 73 Billy AA4NU
>
>
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