TPL Communications RC31FE RF Power Amplifier User Manual PA3 1AC USER
TPL Communications Inc RF Power Amplifier PA3 1AC USER
Users Manual
L-RC3-1FE-U/K6
USER MANUAL
MOBILE VHF
RF POWER AMPLIFIER
RC3-1FE
3370 SAN FERNANDO RD., #206
LOS ANGELES, CA 90065
TEL: (323)256-3000 FAX: (323)254-3210
www.tplcom.com
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION ......................................................................... 2
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS..................................................................... 2
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS..................................................................... 4
INSTALLATION ........................................................................................... 5
WARRANTY ................................................................................................ 6
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The RC3-1FE model is a VHF broad band amplifier intended for use in mobile applications. This
amplifier can deliver 100W when driven with 25W and it will cover the frequency range form 136-174
MHz. The amplifier’s dimensions are: 6.73"L x 1.94"H x 6.0" W, including tabs (see figure 1) and the
weight is 2 lbs.
Figure 1. Package dimension for RC3-1FE amplifier
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
The general specifications for the RC3-1FE amplifier are shown in this section.
TABLE 1
OPERATION MODE: FM / CW
OPERATING VOLTAGE: Nominal DC operating voltage is 13.8VDC and the specifications are
given at this voltage. However, the minimum DC operating voltage is 11 Volts and the maximum DC
operating voltage is 15 Volts as measured at the VDC input connector. Reduced DC input voltage will
result in lower output power and efficiency.
EIA DUTY CYCLE: WITH NO EXTERNAL COOLING:
100 W Output (FM) 30% duty cycle
NOTE: Use of TPL Mobile Amplifiers above the recommended duty cycle or in repeater
applications is not recommended and voids the warranty.
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LANIMON
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LANIMON
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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
(Continued)
HARMONIC AND SPURIOUS ATTENUATION: Meets or exceeds FCC
requirements.
IMPEDANCE: Input: 50Ù.
Output: 50 Ù.
RF INTERFACE CONNECTORS: Input: Mini - UHF
Output: Mini - UHF
DC INPUT CONNECTOR Pig Tail (3pin)
RECEIVER PATH INSERTION LOSS (136-174 MHZ): 1 dB maximum.
OPERATING TEMPERATURE RANGE: -30 to +50 C / Ambient.
STORAGE TEMPERATURE: -40 to +85 C.
OPERATING HUMIDITY: 0 to 85% RH (non-condensing).
STORAGE HUMIDITY: 0 to 95% RH (non-condensing).
OPTIONS
TPL Communications’ VHF Mobile Power Amplifiers are available with several options: input,
output, frequency ranges and configurations, special logos, etc., when specified at the time of order.
We work closely with you, our customer, to develop products that are in complete compliance with
your needs and specifications.
CAUTION!
Inspect the amplifier thoroughly upon receipt for visible damage. If any is noticed, please call TPL
Communications at 800 HI - POWER to request an RMA (Return Material Authorization) number. If
purchased through a dealer or distributor, ask them to also follow this procedure for best results.
EXPENSIVE COMPONENTS MAY BE DESTROYED IF THE AMPLIFIER IS TURNED ON
IN A DAMAGED CONDITION
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OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
CAUTION:
This amplifier produces RF voltages that can cause painful and dangerous burns. Use caution!
Connect and disconnect all RF connections with the drive power and DC power off.
DRIVE POWER:
RF power transistors, although quite rugged in most respects, are easily damaged by
overdrive. Be careful not to overdrive the amplifier even momentarily (before applying any
drive signal please check table 1 for details). Higher-than-rated drive power may destroy the
transistors and VOID ANY WARRANTY.
SUPPLY VOLTAGE:
The maximum operating voltage is 15VDC. When using the DC power supply make sure
that it is not adjusted above 15 volts. If it is possible for the voltage to go above 15 Volts for
any reason, including failure of the power supply, install a “crowbar” circuit to prevent damage
to the amplifier in the event of excess voltage.
CASE TEMPERATURE:
High power can mean high temperatures. Mount the amplifier where air can freely circulate
over it and where clothing, blankets, etc. will not accidentally be placed over it. Keep duty
cycle below limits.
TERMINATIONS:
The efficiency of this amplifier will degrade if it is operated into anything but a 50 Ù load.
Lowered efficiency may mean any or all of the following: lower power output, increased
current drain, higher operating temperature, and reduced life time.
FCC CERTIFICATION
TPL Communications commercial amplifiers are FCC certified for the use in Land mobile/fixed
services. The technician installing this amplifier must hold a General Radio Telephone permit and be
familiar with the pertinent FCC rules and regulations.
Harmonics, and other spurious, signals from this amplifier are attenuated according to or beyond
FCC requirements. For further details consult the appropriate publications.
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INSTALLATION
The RC3-1FE amplifier installation is accomplished by the use of the flanges provided (see figure
1) to attach it to a radio transceiver. Keep coaxial cable runs short, avoiding sharp bends and
pinching. Avoid loose connectors at the ends of the coaxial cables. The antenna should be
matched to an SWR better than 1.5:1 for best results. Higher SWR will degrade the performance
of the amplifier.
1. Mount the amplifier away from the sources of heat, and where air can freely circulate around it.
Avoid mounting the amplifier in the engine compartment or near the exhaust pipe system.
It is also important to securely fasten the unit. An improperly mounted piece of equipment is
subjected to damage as it moves about and can cause serious injuries in an accident. Use bolts
through the holes in the amplifier flanges to fasten the unit to a radio transceiver.
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2. Wire the DC power connector (Pig Tail female) directly to the battery if possible. Do not use the
present vehicle wiring. Use supplied cable harness only. (see figure 2). To avoid a possible fire, or
other possible damage, make sure a fuse or circuit breaker is installed at the battery end of the
wire. Use an external fuse listed in table I.
Attach DC input wires in accordance to the diagram in figure 2.
Figure 2. DC connector wiring
3. Connect the antenna to the “RF OUT” terminal with a 50Ù coaxial cable with a Mini UHF
male connector.
4. Turn off your radio transceiver. Connect it to the “RF IN” terminal with a 50Ù coaxial
cable with Mini UHF male connector.
WARRANTY
TPL COMMUNICATIONS has tested and found this unit to function properly and to operate
within the parameters of its stated specifications.
TPL COMMUNICATIONS warrants that this product is free from defects in material and
workmanship. If found to be defective within two (2) years from the date of purchase, the
factory will, at its discretion, either repair or replace the unit at no cost, provided the unit is
delivered by the owner to the factory intact. The warranty does not apply to any product which
as been subjected to misuse, neglect, accident, improper installation or used in violation of
the instructions furnished by TPL, nor does it extend to units which have been repaired or
altered outside our service department, nor where the serial number has been removed,
defaced or changed.
SERVICE
For service on this amplifier, contact:
TPL COMMUNICATIONS
Customer service department
Phone: (323) 256-3000
(800) HI POWER
FAX: (323) 254-3210
EMAIL: sales@tplcom.com
For information on other
TPL products visit our web site at:
www.tplcom.com
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