[Towertalk] Orion RC2800 controller

[Phil Duff]

At 14:16 4/4/2002 +0100, David Courtier-Dutton wrote:
>I have been using a small Prop Pitch motor for many years and the weak 
>point has always been my home made direction indicator.I am interested in 
>the Orion RC2800 control unit,but I find the specifications on the M2 site 
>confusing.The RC2800P and the RC2800PP-PROP PITCH controller have 
>precisely the same specifications,word for word,yet one is $395 and the 
>other is $549.When I ask M2 if the RC2800P at $395 would control my prop 
>pitch,I am told that the power supply is not adequate,yet according to the 
>specifications both the RC2800P and the RC2800PP have standard output 
>volts of 33VDC @ 12A. Can anyone help clear up this confusion?

I run my prop-pitch with a RC2800P-A controller.

My M2 invoice shows it as an RC2800PP.  Not sure what differences there are 
between current production units as far as their power-supply output 
ratings.  However, my notes from a conversation with M2 prior to my 
purchase (late 1997) show I was told the PP model was rated for 20A 
peak/10A continuous with a DC output of 40 or 50VDC depending on how a tap 
was set.   Mine has worked reliably and without problem for 4 years.

>I would also be interested in comments and advice from anyone who has 
>actually used the RC2800P or the RC2800PP to control a prop pitch.How 
>reliable are they and are there any particular points to watch when 
>setting them up? I note that Clive GM3POI on 28 July 2000 seemed to have a 
>problem with the indicator reed relay missing pulses from the rotating 
>magnet.Has anyone else had a similar problem and if so what was the solution?

Problems with the pulse counting/reed switch circuit can usually be 
avoided/resolved by using a separate run of coaxial cable such RG-58 or 
RG-8X from the controller to the M2 reed switch on the prop-pitch.  Then 
use a separate run of 3 conductor UF rated (outdoor/UV resistant)  AC mains 
feeder cable commonly called "Romex" in the USA for the prop-pitch motor feed.
Be sure to not let any water get into any portion of the pulse cabling/wiring.

73 Phil NA4M



>73 de David, G3FPQ
>
>
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Phil Duff NA4M     na4m@arrl.net   Georgetown, Texas