[TenTec] Centurion Issues

[Ted Schurter]

Thanks Floyd,

You’ve given me a lot to think about. To measure the output power, I’m using a Ten-Tec wattmeter, Model 1225. I’ve questioned the accuracy of this unit, but it does agree with the bar graph LED display. I’ve also compared it to a Elecraft wattmeter option supplied with their panadapter. There seems to be some variation with the three wattmeters, but they are all in the “same ballpark.” The driver for the Centurion is an Elecraft K3S in CW mode. The K3S output can be adjusted from 0  to 100 watts.

From other postings regarding the Centurion, I am somewhat suspicious of the plate current meter. It would be terrific if you could send me the meter calibration procedures. Is this something you can e mail?

You’ve also raised the issue of frequency. The tests i’ve performed were all on 40 meters. The first chance i get, I will try the same tests on 160 meters. 

Excessive plate current means between 0.7 and 0.8 Amperes. An Eimac data sheet I have gives 400 mA as  maximum plate current (800 mA for 2 in parallel).  

73,  
Ted
WB2NVK