[TenTec] Argosy AGC mods---tantalum capacitors--whats the difference?

[Dr. Gerald N. Johnson]

Many low priced aluminum electrolytics have a lot more series resistance
than a quality tantalum. Many I fail fresh from the distributor when I
check them for power factor, the capacitance bridge's measure of series
resistance. Small electrolytics that are a few years old are even worse. 
Changing from a 33 to a 22 mf should slightly shorten the time constant, 
but likely the lower series resistance of the tantalum damps the AGC 
loop better to prevent pumping.

73, Jerry, K0CQ

On 11/8/2010 8:35 PM, scott sheppard wrote:
> I have recently recieved my new to me Argosy. In one of the many mods
> I note it suggests replacing a 33uF elec cap with a 22uF Tantalum
> cap. This is to help reduce the AGC pumping action. For fun I
> replaced the cap with a regular 22uF cap which had no real effect.
> Would a tantalum make that much difference? Has anyone done this?
>
> cheers
>
> scott VA3IED _______________________________________________ TenTec
>