[TenTec] Attn vs RF Gain

[joel hallas]

Crit,

It depends on the level. As I remember from my Corsair days, the 
attenuator is between the antenna and RF amplifier. If the RF amplifier 
input is being overdriven, it will still be if the gain is reduced, but 
won't be (at least as badly) if the attenuator is used first. If you are 
well within the RF amplifier linear range, the attenuator will actually 
have a somewhat negative impact on noise figure compared to the gain, 
but it won't be noticable if the external noise dominates, as it usually 
does on HF.

It is somewhat similar to my description of gain control in "Getting to 
Know Your Radio" in June 06 QST.

73, Joel
Joel R. Hallas, W1ZR



jcharley at bellsouth.net wrote:

>Gentlemen and Ladies.
>Maybe a silly question but ...
>Is there an actual difference in results if I reduce RF gain or use the attenuator on my Corsair II.
>In researching the topic on the reflector I see both actions listed and in different orders,
>Attenuator first then RF gain, and vice versa.  Any science here or just personal preference?
>Thanks.
>73/Crit/K4BXN
>
>
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