Tom

I'm not Kelvin, but can answer in the affirmative.

If not all, then almost all modern amps have an auto-sensor to change bands.
Sometimes an ALC or PTT lead is needed if it isn't totally compatible with
the driver.

73

David W Wood 

-----Original Message-----
From: For blind ham radio operators [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Tom Behler
Sent: Monday, February 24, 2014 12:33 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Amplifier Question

Kelvin:

Thanks for the info on the Icom PW1.

Am I correct in assuming that it would work well with the TS590?

I don't have the money for one right now, but will certainly keep the info
in my folder on amps if the budget improves in the future.

Thanks again and 73 from Tom Behler: KB8TYJ


-----Original Message-----
From: For blind ham radio operators [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Kelvin Marsh
Sent: Monday, February 24, 2014 6:47 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Amplifier Question

Hi Tom,

Only just gotten around to read the messages <smile>.  I use an Icom PW1
solid state amp, and the relays are quiet.  They are not silent, but I don't
notice them at all during normal operation, and I usually use QSK.

The PW1 also has a remote head that allows you to put the amp in another
room if needed, but I have mine under the bench.  I control the auto band
changes via the PC, and I like to hear the clicks from the amp as band
changes are made <smile>.  

The amp also has an auto ATU, but I much prefer to have an external ATU that
gives much more aural feedback...

Best wishes, Kelvin Marsh - M0AID

Working to improve accessibility for radio amateurs with disabilities

www.active-elements.org

For accessibility evaluations of amateur equipment and MP3 manuals

-----Original Message-----
From: For blind ham radio operators [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Tom Behler
Sent: 23 February 2014 15:17
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Amplifier Question

Hi, all.

 

Well, I'd now like to tap into the wisdom of the group on an issue I don't
know a whole lot about, so please bare with me.

 

As I think many of you know, I use an Ameritron AL811H tube-type amplifier
with my TS590 HF setup.  I also have an ARB704 buffer box in the circuit, to
protect the relay circuit in the TS590.

 

I'm actually very happy with the setup, although tuning the amp can be a bit
tricky at times, even with the TW1.

 

Anyway, the AL811H has a relay circuit that is rather noisy when keying and
unkeying.  This is apparent on SSB, and even more apparent on CW.  In fact,
the noisy relay circuit is one of the main reasons I don't like to use the
amp when in CW mode, due to the constant and rather annoying relay chatter.

 

My question is this:  Do solid-state amplifiers have relay circuits in them
that are as noisy, or do they tend to be quieter?

 

There is no way I have the money in my budget right now to purchase a solid
state amp, since I believe they can run into the thousands of dollars, but
I'm wondering if this might be something for me to think about in the long
term?

 

I'm looking forward to all of your observations and suggestions.

 

Tom Behler:  KB8TYJ