[Argonaut_USERS_Group] (no subject)

[Earl Andrews]

I have an Argonaut 509, that I now use as my main rig. I have a 405 amp as well..but havent used it in months.
My Argo works very well. 
I have an argo 509 basket case rig..that I use an my experimental model. Rather than fiddle with the alignement of the front end ect..I have started building a brand new front end. It consists of two circuit boards (vector boards) stacked and will fit in the spot where the original front end and input coils were.
So Far..I have the "fixed" band pass filters build for 4 bands.
I aligned them with my autek rf analyser. Once aligned..they 
should never require much adjustment. My RF amplifier _"on receive" will be low noise for low signal work and adjustable and should have lots of gain..Im thinking of using 
one of the mini circuits 18db modules. (this part of the circuitry is in the concept stage.
-- Id like to have more than the standard 5 bands..and id like to eliminate some of the wafer switches..perhaps diode switching for the filters..ARRL publications have many examples of filters being switched by diodes and control voltages. (would eliminate alot of the wafers in the bandswitch and perhaps losses). 
- this is a large project but im determined to finish it in a couple of years. IN FACT..Im going to get back at it this winter with a hot soldering iron. Ill post any major steps of progress. 
-By the way..the argo has lots of drive and you can use CB output finals..with some lead bending..and get a little more power output (pssbly 10watts or so). Ive done this with the PA module. TO 220 style transistors that I have managed to 
bend the leads to fit the circuit board..and used a tab mount heat sink.
Maybe you can tell..I like bench work-and thinking out mods and new circuitry ect. The nice thing about the argonaut type of radio..it is simple enough for an amateur to work with. NOt too many complex ICs or tight Surrface mount 
components.
73 Earl VE3AB