Comtech EF Data PCB-4000A, Installation And Operation Manual

Page: 29 / 88

PCB-4000A 1+1 Phase Combiner
Revision 2
Operation and Adjustment Procedures 3–1 MN-PCB-4000A
Chapter 3. OPERATION
AND
ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES
Comtech EF Data recommends that only qualified personnel familiar with high-power
amplifiers, test equipment, and phase-combined systems attempt the procedures
provided in this chapter. Furthermore, before attempting any of these procedures, it is
strongly advised to:
•
Read Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION to become familiar with system terminology and
Theory of Operation.
•
Read Chapter 2. EXTERNAL CONNECTORS to become familiar with the external
connectors and their functionality.
•
Read Chapter 5. SERIAL REMOTE CONTROL to become familiar with the serial
remote control commands and queries.
3.1 Overview
Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION
As indicated in Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION , the PCB-4000A 1+1 Phase Combiner system is
aligned at the factory using a network analyzer. The in-factory adjustments are based on the
specific arrangement of the SSPAs within the system. To ensure proper system operation and
performance, it is mandatory that the components are installed in the same positions as was
done in the factory. See Figure 3-1 for an assembly example.
Although the techniques featured in this chapter afford easy adjustment and setting of the phase
shifter for optimum output power combining over the full amplifier bandwidth,
alignment in the
field is generally not required and it is strongly cautioned against making unneeded
adjustments
.
However, if an amplifier or other critical system component is replaced (e.g., the PCB-4000A
unit), the procedures provided in this chapter explain the steps necessary to restore proper
system operation. This chapter also provides a verification procedure in the event that proper
system operation confirmation is required.
It is recommended that only qualified personnel familiar with high-power
amplifiers, test equipment, and phase combined systems attempt these
procedures.