CBA 400M-260 OPERATING MANUAL
5
SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION
CBA 400M-260 INTRODUCTION
The CBA 400M-260 is an amplifier capable of supplying 260 watts of RF power into a 50 ohm load
over the frequency range 10kHz to 400MHz, during the course of EMC tests on electrical
equipment. The amplifier is designed with sufficient gain such that it may be used with normal
output levels of signal sources. A safety interlock system on the rear panel is also provided, two
options are available, short circuit or open circuit to mute.
The unit is powered from a switched mode power supply for high efficiency, high power factor and
wide voltage range operation. The unit is air cooled with integral fans, and is protected against faulty
cooling by excess temperature sensing.
A front panel indicator is provided to indicate over-temperature. The amplifier is designed for rugged
operation into a variety of loads. The amplifier is primarily intended for use as a power source for
EMC susceptibility testing, but is also applicable to other systems requiring a wide-band linear
amplifier.
This amplifier is designated as ‘professional equipment’ and should not be operated by untrained
staff.
As this product has the capability to generate high levels of RF energy it is not intended for use in a
residential environment. Although harmful levels of RF power are not emitted by the amplifier,
poorly screened or matched cables can radiate in use and adequate precautions need to be taken
to mitigate this. This may include the use of double screened cables or locating the amplifier inside
a secondary screened enclosure.
Potential or theoretical hazards
Threat
Precaution
Exposure of personnel to high RF fields
produced by an antenna connected to the output
of the amplifier
Ensure that the antenna is inside a screened
enclosure and fit an interlock to the entry door to
prevent access while the amplifier is operating
RF burns caused by contact with the antenna
connected to the output of the amplifier
Ensure that the antenna is inside a screened
enclosure and fit an interlock to the entry door to
prevent access while the amplifier is operating
Amplifier self oscillation caused by feedback
from un-terminated connectors
This is an unlikely but theoretical possibility.
Always ensure that the amplifier input is
terminated either by the system signal generator
or by a suitable RF load/attenuator before
switching the amplifier on.
Arcing due to high RF voltages present at the
output connector
Always ensure that the output of the amplifier is
terminated either by the system antenna or a
suitable High power RF load or attenuator.
