Question for those with HardRock 50 and or Acom amplifiers

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Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Jul 30, 2023, 7:36:53 PM7/30/23
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Since I have had my Hermes and built the HR50 amplifier

I have had a lot of "UNK" message errors displayed on the Hardrock 50

I intially built the HR50 to drive my ACOM 1000- But now there is issues there as well 

"ARC FAULT" and yes, I know usually that is antenna, coax, connector related but other things can cause this error as well:

First Off, I also have 2 other radios an EE SunSDR2DX and 590-S.
Neither of these radios produce an ARC fault error with the ACOM

This doesn't matter what Antenna or band.

My initial thought was RF, but I'm pretty sure that is ruled out with all the 240-31 cores on everything and other precautions I have taken.


I suspect this is now either a Hermes BIAS issue or a filter board issue.

It looks and sounds very much like the old TEN TEC issues with the ACOM amps when using an Orion.  you can find/see some info on that here:  Ham Radio Site - Orion-Acom FIX (dj0ip.de)

I'm leaning to a BIAS issue, which would cause increased harmonics, and produce the Hard Rock "UNK" errors and also the Acom "ARC Fault" errors.

If you are using either of these amplifiers and have this problem I would like to know.

Does anyone know what the BIAS current on the Hermes should be?  

Thanks 

Rick 

Steve Haynal

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Jul 31, 2023, 12:06:05 AM7/31/23
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Hi Rick,

Is your problem with a Hermes or Hermes-Lite? They are two distinct radios. If Hermes, please refer to  https://openhpsdr.org/

If Hermes-Lite, the bias is set to ~210mA automatically at the factory with this software:

If you want to manually reset the bias, I suggest you do it with Quisk as described in this video:
Similar to the Orion page you linked to, it would be helpful if you could share any oscilloscope captures of the RF output from the HL2 and/or HR50 to determine if there are any runt pulses or transmits. 

I am a true QRP guy and that is why the HL2 is 5W. Many others have used PAs with the HL2 and I haven't heard reports of this issue. I don't recall if your exact configuration is being used by anyone though.

73,

Steve
kf7o

G4ZAL

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Jul 31, 2023, 5:07:49 AM7/31/23
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I am currently making an Arduino interface to read the HL2's VFO serial data using the io board (DB9 connector) as for the HL2 to HR50 interface.
I too had lots of 'UNK' errors on my HR50 when I was using it with my HL2.

My Arduino interface reads the serial data and converts it to BCD to suit my new amplifier (Juma PA1000).  The HL2 is capable of fully driving the Juma PA1000 amp without the need of an intermediate amp.
Whilst watching the Arduino serial dubug lines, I see that the serial data is not consistent with the VFO/band requested as it often sends 2 readings.  The 1st serial data is wrong and the 2nd is correct - this is in Thetis for HL2.
It will also do it occasionally in PowerSDR mRX PS but nowhere near as often as in Thetis for HL2.
Interestingly, it doesn't seem to happen in Quisk?!

I made a short screen recording of what is occuring in Thetis, here...

I'll hook up my HR50 again in the next days and check how it performs in both Thetis, PowerSDR & Quisk regarding the 'UNK' error.

It should be simple for anyone with the HL2 to HR50 serial DB9 interface to check their setup by usng an FTDI (or similar) USB to serial adapter to read the data from the HL2 (only GND and Rx in, need be connected)

Nigel
G4ZAL

Rick Langford

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Jul 31, 2023, 7:36:50 AM7/31/23
to Steve Haynal, Hermes-Lite
Sorry Steve

It is a Hermes lite 2

I received last month from MakerFabs.

At this point I am not sure if it is caused from Hermes lite or the HR50.

Thank you for the bias info.
I'll have a look at that link in next couple days.

The post was a general question if anyone else had seen such errors with same or similar combinations.

Have a good day.

Rick


Rick Langford

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Jul 31, 2023, 7:40:00 AM7/31/23
to G4ZAL, Hermes-Lite
Thank you Neal



Rick Langford

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Jul 31, 2023, 7:41:21 AM7/31/23
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Sorry , name correction

Thank you Nigel

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Jul 31, 2023, 3:51:09 PM7/31/23
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Steve so using QUISK would want to see roughly 100-105mA per device correct-

Not 210 mA each but a total combined draw for Bias

Steve Haynal

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Aug 1, 2023, 1:40:05 AM8/1/23
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Hi Rick,

210mA is what software should report if TX is engaged with no signal on a properly biased HL2. When adjusting the bias, you do set the current to 100-105mA per LDMOS device.

73,

Steve
kf7o

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 1, 2023, 5:32:21 PM8/1/23
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Steve looks like my initial BIAS was around 184 mA draw

Not that far off,

I did reset so it is closer to the 200 mA BIAS range

Couple videos of as received from Maker Fabs and after resetting the BIAS current draw.



I haven't had a chance to see if this helps with the initial problems I have been having-

I did contact a close friend with spectrum analyzer will be hopefully get time later in week or early next to take at look at output.

If I remember I will try and get videos and photos again.

Rick 

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 2, 2023, 8:34:08 AM8/2/23
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@G4ZAL - Regarding your HR50

Nigel- do you recall the firmware version on your HR50

I need more time to test this, but I may have had corrupted HR50 firmware- 
A reflash then install of 4.01 so far has settled down the UNK errors-

originally mine had Ver 4.0

Steve Haynal

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Aug 2, 2023, 11:52:52 PM8/2/23
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Hi Rick,

It sounds as if you figured out your problem, but I thought I'd share a few suggestions in any event. I would consider 184mA within range for a cold start. Usually you see closer to 210mA after transmitting for tens of seconds. Bias variations haven't had much effect in my experience.

Did you mean your friend has an oscilloscope? An oscilloscope might show if there is a brief cut of the TX signal, or an additional short TX signal, similar to what was seen in the link you provided. If there is a brief drop in the TX signal, it may be due to network latency and the TX buffer underflowing. You may want to try some of the buffer tweaks mentioned recently.

Even though you've protected against RFI, 1KW is a lot of power, more than I typically see people using the HL2 for. Some may still be leaking in. Most RFI comes in through wires. You can try with the minimum number of wires connected to the HL2 (no unnecessary aftermarket addons active, use VAC) and see if you have the same problem with a two tone test. Also, try other software.

73,

Steve
kf7o

Rick Langford

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Aug 3, 2023, 6:43:40 AM8/3/23
to Steve Haynal, Hermes-Lite
Spectrum analyzer and a better scope than I do.

Other SDR rigs here , of the computer required type. No RFI issues.

I thought I had it figured out, but still continue to have oddities.

I'll know more when I can get with him and we can do more tests.

Thanks again.

Once I know more  I'll keep you updated


Rick 

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Subject: Re: Question for those with HardRock 50 and or Acom amplifiers
 
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G4ZAL

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Aug 3, 2023, 10:02:54 AM8/3/23
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@ Rick (and maybe FYI Steve too)

Had 2 grandkids here for the day yesterday (child minding over school holidays) and some chores this morning, but checked now and...
HR50 was originally on v3.0D firmware and it had the UNK issue
Updated to v4.1A and it still had the UNK issue, so reflashed back to 3.0D (still gave UNK error) and then HR50 put away as new amp had arrived.

I've put the HR50 back inline and can still reproduce the error...

PowerSDR mRX PS v3.4.9 and Reid's modified Thetis for HL2 will make the HR50 produce a 'row of bricks' on the HR50 display when keying up and then dekeying it shows the UNK error - changing bands, moving the VFO or power cycle usually restores things.
Interestingly, if I reduce the HL2 drive to '0' I still get the error using TUN in PSDR and Thetis
Looking closer at it, when the fault occurs, the 'row of bricks' appear instantly when using TUN button.
Using MOX on SSB doesn't seem to create the fault although VOX will occasionaly fault (full drive set and speaking into the mic).

Quisk seems absolutely fine and no errors at all with HL2 producing 5w into HR50 - using Spot(TUN), PTT(MOX) or VOX - I can't get the UNK error under any circumstance on my test!

This very short test over an hour or so suggests it is software related ?
Put a power meter inline after the HL2 and watch the needle when using the various softwares.
PowerSDR and Thetis both make a short 'blip' of the needle before actual drive seems to be applied (goes along with me noticing the instant error when using TUN)
Quisk does not do this.

Another oddity...
Disconnecting the serial cable and using PSD and Thetis, set the HR50 to use COR for key mode, manually set the band to match the HL2 software band.
I can't seem to get it to error, but watch the HR50 Power/Tx LED - notice it go to Red/Green then Red (and Red stays on) when using TUN - seems the HR50 notices this initial 'blip' of RF.
Connect the serial cable again and PSDR/Thetis will make the UNK error even though I'm using COR !
Once again, Quisk does not do this or make the error no matter how hard I try!

I think it is worth a bit more investigation...

Slightly off track, but same type of cable and connectors used to signal from my HL2 into my Juma PA1000 and at full UK limit of 400w I have no issue, although I have an Arduino Nano reading the HL2 serial output and converting it to BCD for the Juma band data.

Nigel
G4ZAL

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 10:04:44 AM8/3/23
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Today I had a chance to try something a friend suggested-

That was using my other SDR a 2DX with just a piece of coax (about 2 foot long) for the 2DX antenna.

The Hermes was placed in a dummy load.

These radios are on separate power supplies.

I have the drive levels set between 3/4 watt to almost 2 watts in these tests.

The idea was to use the 2DX as a poor man's spectrum display and watch the 2nd Harmonic of the Hermes.

Steve this would not show up on a scope.  Which is why I wanted to look at harmonics from the Hermes- No amp just the Hermes alone.

I have been beating my head since I got the Hermes, I really like it a lot, But I'm plagued with oddities, when running the Hardrock 50 amp where it goes into UNKOWN band errors, and when used to Drive the ACOM I get similar results. 

May initial thinking here was a BIAS issue incorrectly set causing harmonics or spikes (I should have looked at this method of testing first I suppose)

Any way link again to same G Drive folder there are 2 more videos. 

1) Hermes on 40 meters looking at the 2nd Harmonic from the 2DX on 20 Meters
2) Hermes on 80 meters looking at the 2nd Harmonic from the 2DX on 40 Meters

This Does Not Look good; in fact, it could very well explain a lot of the issues I have been having from day 1 again no power amp involved strictly the Hermes PA was used in this test.
If I'm seeing Harmonics like this with a 2nd Receiver no antenna connected to it, I can only Imagine what the Hard Rock 50 and the ACOMs processors are seeing- and thus tripping them with the Errors.

So is it a Bad filter board, Bad Hermes, or something with filter selections in the Thetis software (using Reid's MioBOT Hermes HL2 Beta 3 version)

My next test will be using the Standard Thetis version non HL2 build and perform the same test.

Videos of Harmonics produced from Hermes Lite

 (Hermes on 40M looking at 2nd Harmonics produced on 20 Meters) 

   (Hermes on 80M looking at 2nd Harmonics produced on 40 Meters) 


Is it possible I have a bad filter board or Hermes Lite?

I still intend to take the Hermes and the HR50 over to friend's place with more test equipment then I have here. 

Rick 

Reid Campbell

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Aug 3, 2023, 10:30:08 AM8/3/23
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Hi Rick,

Could you take a screen shot of Setup|General|OC Control|HF in the setup screen. I would be interested to see your filter settings.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT
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Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 10:33:43 AM8/3/23
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Just ran the same tests using Ritchies Thetis 2.10.0 same frequencies for TX were used.

Harmonics are still there but do appear slightly less. 

Nigel, not sure if you have Ritchie's version still loaded as well, if so, could you possible try using it and see if you have the same results with your HR50 as you do with Reid's Modified version for the HL2., I noticed a difference between the 2 when I was testing the UNK errors so curious if see that as well.



Much appreciated

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 10:36:57 AM8/3/23
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Sure, Reid see attached       ,Filter selections HL2 Beta 3.jpg  

Reid Campbell

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Aug 3, 2023, 10:52:53 AM8/3/23
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OK, they look fine. Try selecting each of the bands and then try unticking and ticking the receive filter flag for each and listen for the relay click. That would prove the relays are being selected.

For you tests listening to the second harmonic, try turning off the filter for the primary band to see if the harmonic increases. I have been caught out before by leakage and just having a piece of wire close to the transceiver.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 10:58:47 AM8/3/23
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STAND VBY a minute Reid,

I am waiting for another video to upload.

Watching the selectors on the band filters they are not changing when I switch some bands.

give me a couple so the video can upload, and I can link it will probably take a few minutes.

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 11:08:44 AM8/3/23
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Here Reid

the video is most likely still processing, so may require download- GDrive a bit slow today.

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 11:22:10 AM8/3/23
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And here is the video with Ritchies version (Non HL2 Build) 
all appears to be switching correctly here and this would also be on PAR with the decreased Harmonics I saw when running the test on Hermes watching the 2nd Harmonic on the 2DX, above in the thread.

G4ZAL

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Aug 3, 2023, 11:40:32 AM8/3/23
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@Rick, will make a setup with original Thetis as I have an Anan 200D as well using original Thetis, so need to make seperate folders for HL2 on original Thetis and appropriate shortcut links...

@Reid, I can confirm in your version of modified HL2 Thetis, the J16 pins are not working correctly - same behaviour as Rick's video

Hadn't noticed that before as my other amps have clicking relays!
Quisk and PSDR mRX are happily clicking HL2 relays.

Nigel
G4ZAL

Reid Campbell

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Aug 3, 2023, 12:14:00 PM8/3/23
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Hi Rick,

I know what's going on. I made a small change to select the LPF on Rx based on the highest frequency of VFOA or VFOB. What I missed was to check that Rx2 was on. If you switch Rx2 on and set VFOB to 160M, then switch Rx2 off, everything should be good.

I checked that Tx was OK, so that shouldn't be causing your amp problems.

I fix this issue in the next release.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT 

Rick Langford

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Aug 3, 2023, 12:24:22 PM8/3/23
to Reid Campbell, Hermes-Lite
Interesting since Nigel experience the same issue when running the HL2 thetis. As I do with same amp .

I'll wait to her from him when he gets time to test with non modified version.

As I don't get those with that version.

I thought perhaps since wrong filtering selection and the harmonic being created as such that could be cause for the Amp errors both the HR50 and the Acom appear to be very well protected and if it see something like high harmonics it would trigger UNK error or on case of Acom a arc fault. In this case wrong band/mistuned instance which only takes a split second for the Acom to basi6say I'm having part of this.

Reid Campbell

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Aug 3, 2023, 1:16:53 PM8/3/23
to Rick Langford, Hermes-Lite
Could you send me a photo of Setup|General|F/W Set please.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 1:35:34 PM8/3/23
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Sure thing

Screenshot 2023-08-03 133447.jpg

Reid Campbell

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Aug 3, 2023, 1:41:58 PM8/3/23
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Could you try increasing the Tx Latency to see if that has any affect. The maximum you can go to is 70 msec.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 1:42:52 PM8/3/23
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@ Nigel +

Another oddity...
Disconnecting the serial cable and using PSD and Thetis, set the HR50 to use COR for key mode, manually set the band to match the HL2 software band.
I can't seem to get it to error, but watch the HR50 Power/Tx LED - notice it go to Red/Green then Red (and Red stays on) when using TUN - seems the HR50 notices this initial 'blip' of RF.
Connect the serial cable again and PSDR/Thetis will make the UNK error even though I'm using COR !
Once again, Quisk does not do this or make the error no matter how hard I try!

Yes, confirmed same results here - I do not see this initial Spike/Bleep with Quisk


Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 3, 2023, 1:44:19 PM8/3/23
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HI,

 Reid, I have run that up to 50 or so before and no difference noted. 

Perhaps Nigel when he gets time can try this as well. 

G4ZAL

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Aug 3, 2023, 3:30:31 PM8/3/23
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@Reid,  thanks for the workaround fix for the J16 pins/filter selection - confirmed as working for me and once applied it 'sticks' after a restart of Thetis4HL2.
I also notice more power out on 40m and 15m with the 'filter fix' applied.  I was consistently ~20% down on both bands before so guess it was somehow affecting Tx as well - I now have pretty much an even 5w across all bands.
This HL2 is a b9 build from circa late 2019.

The initial RF 'blip' still bothers me regarding the HL2 as I've checked a bit more...
It  only happens in Thetis (well, mostly)
It occasionally happens in PowerSDR mRX (which along with Quisk is what I mainly use until recently trying Thetis4HL2)
It does not happen in Quisk
No matter what I do, I cannot get Quisk to produce the UNK error on the HR50.

The blip does not happen in Thetis on my Anan 200D (Protocol 1 and latest Thetis upon which Thetis4HL2 is based).

I have a new, 2nd HL2 that arrived in the last few days, so will setup a test rig so I don't have to keep dismantling/assembling/dismantling my main desk setup.
First I need to mill a new PCB and assemble the components to make the db9 serial connection.

More as I get bench time... the grey line is approaching and it's time to play.

Nigel
G4ZAL

Rick Langford

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Aug 3, 2023, 3:43:16 PM8/3/23
to G4ZAL, Hermes-Lite
Thanks for test and info
Nigel.

I'll be interested to see if the new HL2 acts like mine when used with Thetis as well. 

Mine is roughly just over a month old. 
From: herme...@googlegroups.com <herme...@googlegroups.com> on behalf of G4ZAL <devon...@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 3, 2023 3:30:31 PM

G4ZAL

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Aug 5, 2023, 8:09:54 AM8/5/23
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@Reid

Your 'filter fix' is OK up to a point...
If you set SPLT and use VFO B for Tx and set it 5kHz above VFO A (as you would working DX using split) the 'filter fix' no longer works (it reverts back to misbehaving).
The fix is to set SPLT and VFO B back down to 160m and turn off SPLT again (actually, this is easier than using RX2 etc and you can now keep an eye on VFO B)

I found this out after working 2 DX stations on 17m last night and both using split operation.

Is it possible to make a proper fix sooner rather than later?

Nigel
G4ZAL

Rick Langford

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Aug 5, 2023, 8:12:39 AM8/5/23
to G4ZAL, Abridged recipients
You beat me to this!

Found same when doing this with 10m late yesterday evening.



Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 5, 2023, 11:12:37 AM8/5/23
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All

Sorry I did not get video or pics when i was able to take the HL2 over friends for more testing,

Here is a brief outline of what we found.

I intend to go back when we both have time, When I do, I'll perform tests below again, with and without an HPF filter.
although I can tell you from testing here back home things have settled down a bit more with errors and spikes

1) Yes, there is some trash when keying and Unkeying the HL2, these are visible on a spectrum analyzer these spikes occur between 1.3-2 MHz (At least that where we were looking for lower frequency occurrences) and happen no matter what band is selected on the HL2 160-10M
 that was done using little more than 1 watt from the HL2 only, I would think this is amplified as well when running an external amplifier- again similar to the TEN TEC article I mentioned in thread. Thus, being possible cause for ACOM amplifier to trigger the ARC Fault as also mentioned and shown in that article. this was using Both Reids Modified Thetis HL2 Beta 3 and Ritchie's Thetis 2.10.0 (However and I can't figure this out it is slightly less with Ritchie's version -see # 2)

2) Using QUISK- while noted by both Nigel and myself we don't see the initial spike on Keying and Unkeying like we both do when using Thetis, it is there but again even down further in strength- I know this is odd and I can't wrap my head around it, but software does appear to make so small difference here in Harmonics and Keying/Unkeying spikes.

3) I don't understand what the UNKEYING spike is caused from, but it is visible on Spectrum analyzer (Steve Sorry did not test with scope as time was limited, but will do when running these tests again)

4) Back home I have placed an old Morgan manufacturing HPF filter model 402X between the HL2 and the input of the HR50- I have not so far been able to trigger the UNK error- do to time and wanting to take this step by step with amplifiers I have not tested yet to see if the "ARC faults on A100 have disappeared. I should have time this evening. Recall I am using the HR50 to drive the A1000 as it needs 50 or so watts in to achieve good output. 

5) Even more odd- using the version that Scott had created for Thetis, things are closer to the outcome seen in QUISK, then the other two versions of Thetis. again, don't understand why this is. Hover PS doesn't properly work in that version.

6) UNKEYING- unkeying the Hermes from a 2 tone or a tune - will produce a small harmonic or bleep, like seen on click clicks in CW- don't understand why this is happens, it is visible on all versions of software I had with me to test, those were- Quisk, and Thetis variants, 2.10.0/2.9.08 HL2 Beta 3 and 2.9.0.31A

  • Wil wait to see what Nigel experiences when time permits for him to do so.
Here is a pic of the filter I am currently using between the HL2 and input of the HR50- again I haven't watched this combination on his analyzer, but between this and the correct filters selected in HL2 Beta 3 I have not seen the UNK error on the HardRock.

PXL_20230805_145241378.jpg

Reid Campbell

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Aug 5, 2023, 5:00:57 PM8/5/23
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Hi Nigel,

I'm not seeing that error mode but I do have a fix that should correct the issue. I have a release ready to go and was waiting for any further updates on the I/O board protocol. I have enough other fixes, so I'll try and get a release out tonight or tomorrow.

Can you please confirm that it is only the Rx filter switching that is affected. The Tx filters should be OK.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT

Reid Campbell

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Aug 5, 2023, 5:06:38 PM8/5/23
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Hi Rick,

I have a fix which stops the drop in power when Tune is initiated and that will be in the next release. I'm not sure if that will help you.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 5, 2023, 5:09:45 PM8/5/23
to Reid Campbell, herme...@googlegroups.com
Thanks Reid. Looking forward to test it out.

Also in your question to Nigel since he and I have same results with things this far.

Yes only on RX was the LPF out of whack 

From what I have video of and tests I have done. Correct on tx side of things with selection

Thanks 

Rick N8SDR 
From: herme...@googlegroups.com <herme...@googlegroups.com> on behalf of Reid Campbell <scumballc...@gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, August 5, 2023 5:06:31 PM
To: herme...@googlegroups.com <herme...@googlegroups.com>

Reid Campbell

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Aug 5, 2023, 5:14:41 PM8/5/23
to Rick Langford (N8SDR), herme...@googlegroups.com
Thanks for that update, Rick. I'll try and get it out as soon as possible.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT

G4ZAL

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Aug 5, 2023, 5:18:39 PM8/5/23
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Hi Reid,

Confirmed, the filter issue does not appear to affect Tx, just tested now and all bands select the correct filter on Tx (red square in correct J16 filter) even though Rx is misbehaving (for test).

Thanks for your efforts with the software, much apreciated.

Nigel
G4ZAL

Rick Langford

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Aug 5, 2023, 5:19:52 PM8/5/23
to Reid Campbell, herme...@googlegroups.com
Cheers my friend

Thanks for the quick responses and you looking into those issues.

Hopefully the videos helped so what was happening.

All the best

Rick Langford

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Aug 5, 2023, 6:17:54 PM8/5/23
to Reid Campbell, herme...@googlegroups.com

Reid

Any reason for the zip file within the zip file under the sub direction Release.

I assume an overlooked zip container

RIck

Reid Campbell

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Aug 5, 2023, 6:23:16 PM8/5/23
to Rick Langford, herme...@googlegroups.com
Don't know what that's there for, it will be gone in a moment.  Thanks for highlighting it.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT

Rick Langford

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Aug 5, 2023, 6:23:59 PM8/5/23
to Reid Campbell, herme...@googlegroups.com
Filters selection this far working correctly

Robert Herendeen

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Aug 5, 2023, 7:23:25 PM8/5/23
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Rick
How are you sequencing the key line while using the HR50 to drive the Acom? 

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 5, 2023, 7:37:03 PM8/5/23
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Hello Bob

Using the DB9 connector on the eHL2 to the DB9 serial port on the HR50. You need pins GND Pin 5 and PTT Pin 4 these pins match assignment on both DB9 connectors from HL2 to the HR50

This allows the RCA PTT on the HR50 to be used (as listed in the HR50 user manual as a driver amplifier) in the HR50 menu you can then also set a delay before closing the rear PTT (RCA) to avoid hot switching the ACOM, in my case or other external amplifier.

copied from page 4 of HR50 user manual.

Using the HR50 as a Driver for a QRO Amplifier

The HR50 amplifier can be placed between the SDR or QRP transceiver and a high power tube or solid state amplifier
allowing the station to produce any power level up to the legal power limit. On the HR50 the PTT line is bridged from the
ACC jack to the PTT jack so high power amplifiers that have DC keying can be tied directly to this line. Older high power
amplifiers that key using AC voltage should be connected with a DC relay. The HR50 has a programmable key-up delay
that can be used to insure that the high power amplifier is online before the HR50 applies RF to prevent ‘hot’ keying.

Robert Herendeen

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Aug 5, 2023, 7:54:43 PM8/5/23
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Rick,
Thanks for the info, I have ordered a HR50 to play around with just this last week. I will follow up and read about the sequencing out of the HR50 for a final PA after the HR50.

I also read in this conversation Steve mentioning your efforts to eliminate RFI but I did find the original details yet. I found that the anodized enclosure looks nice, but causes issues getting the enclosure grounded.  The PCB really only has a solid connection to the enclosure through the heat shim. I removed the anodizing from under the shim location. I also removed the anodizing from the end plate screw holes and switched to some non-anodized screws. The top cover of the enclosure I found was not getting a connection from the end plates. 

Have a good evening all...    

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 5, 2023, 8:28:54 PM8/5/23
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Bob the problems I had were not RFI, but improper LPF selected in software application.\ used with the HL2, and since I was passing the BAND data and PTT that caused the "UNK" errors I received at times. 

You should be good as that issue has been corrected and all apers to function correctly now.

Feel free to email me if you have question with the build. 

Robert Herendeen

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Aug 5, 2023, 8:32:46 PM8/5/23
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I just wanted to mention the enclosure issue I came across since RFI was mentioned in this conversation. I am following the rest of what has been posted about the filter board selection issue.  

Rick Langford

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Aug 5, 2023, 10:17:18 PM8/5/23
to Robert Herendeen, Hermes-Lite
Robert quick update.

1)New beta 4 loaded.

2)I'm using a Morgan 492x filter
between HL2 and the HR50

3)Acom on and I use over 40 minutes on 75 meters SSB

4) 45-50 Watts from HR50 into Acom at 850+ out

No HR50 UNK errors
No Acom ARC Faults

Stable no issues

Pure Signal FB at 158 with a SAT of 18

A good experience so far this evening!


Again thank you Reid for the corrections and other updates that has helped!!!


Rick


Reid Campbell

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Aug 6, 2023, 4:51:36 AM8/6/23
to herme...@googlegroups.com
Hi Rick,

Thanks for posting this as the penny has dropped and I now understand why the filter mix-up was causing you the issue. This would come back if you used the second receivers and had it on a higher band.

I would normal run 2 receivers, the one on VFO A on ssb and VFO B on FT8, usually on a higher band. Under these circumstances, transmitting on VFO A would cause your fault again as the higher LPF will have been selected during receive.

This will be helped by the new I/O board as I think from memory, it broadcasts the Tx frequency. I need to confirm this as it's been a while since I played with the board.

Cheers 

Reid
Gi8TME/Mi0BOT

Rick Langford (N8SDR)

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Aug 6, 2023, 7:31:56 AM8/6/23
to Reid Campbell, herme...@googlegroups.com
Thank you much sir 

I had been banging my head against a brick.
Last several weeks of what is going on here.

Most everyone called it an RF issue getting into the setup.  I had chocked things so much I could see how it was" breathing"  esp at low power.

Yes I have been watching the thread on new board and definitely want in on that. I keep checking Maker Fabs to see if available yet.

Thanks to  all  involved 

And have a good day 

Rick
N8SDR 
From: herme...@googlegroups.com <herme...@googlegroups.com> on behalf of Reid Campbell <scumballc...@gmail.com>
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