NuPower
TM
11B02A-TAC User Manual
Rev 1.1
6
3
SETUP AND OPERATION
This section provides specific details for proper operation of the NuPower 11B02A-TAC module. Following
these guidelines will prevent damage to the power amplifier or external equipment.
3.1
POWER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS
To operate the NuPower 11B02A-TAC, ensure that the power supply has adequate overhead to source
the current demand of the RF power amplifier. The power supply source must provide a typical voltage of
+28 VDC with greater than 3 amps capability (or equivalent current based on acceptable 11-32V input
voltage range).
3.2
CONNECTING A PROPER LOAD TO THE ANTENNA TERMINAL
To prevent damage to the PA, the antenna terminal must be terminated into a 50
Ω
load. Examples of a
proper load include:
•
Directly connecting to an antenna specified for the frequency range (200 MHz to 2.6 GHz).
Connecting to an inappropriate antenna may result in damage to the PA module.
•
Connecting to a proper antenna through a 50
Ω
transmission line or coaxial cable. Avoid using
damaged cables or corroded connectors while attaching the unit to an antenna.
•
Terminating the antenna terminal into a 50
Ω
power attenuator with minimum 20 dB attenuation.
•
Connecting to a load capable of dissipating the RF power from the PA module. Loads capable of
handling 30 Watts (min) are recommended.
3.3
POWERING-UP THE 11B02A-TAC
The NuPower 11B02A-TAC must be terminated to a proper load before power is applied. Refer to Section
3.2 for the specifications of the proper load. After the PA is properly terminated, the interface cable can
be connected to the unit and power can be applied. The PA is now ready for operation.
3.4
TRANSMIT TURN-ON TIME
Caution: Do not apply transmit data until the PA module is at full power. This will prevent
loss of data at the beginning of a message.
The NuPower 11B02A-TAC is at full power approximately 30 µS after the RF Enable switch is placed in the
‘ON’ position
. Therefore, transmit data can be applied to the input after 30 µS without loss of data.
3.5
RF OUTPUT POWER VS. SUPPLY VOLTAGE
Although the NuPower 11B02A-TAC was designed for +28 VDC operation, the module is capable of
providing suitable RF power output over a broad range of supply voltages: +11 VDC to +32 VDC.
