[Boatanchors] Harvey-Wells VFO stabilization etc

[WQ9E at btsnetworks.net]

Ian,

I run my Johnson Viking 1 and 2 the same way on CW, an extra pole on the T/R relay keeps the VFO enabled in transmit to avoid chirp. As long as your aren't planning to run full break-in this is a great method. 

I missed your earlier posting but I am assuming this is one of the TBS-50 series transmitters?  Neither input power nor efficiency are strong points of this rig-its claim to fame is small size and operation over a very wide range of frequencies.  The output network is compact and convenient but I think it gives up a bit of efficiency in the process.  Input was expected to be 45 watts or less and even though you are running a little more voltage than originally specified it isn't going to let you extract a lot more power.  Make sure you have the resistor values on back set properly for your voltage level.

It is a very compact rig for its age and capability.  I picked up one with the VFO base a few years ago to go with my earlier version.

Rodger WQ9E

-------- Original Message --------
> From: Ian Wilson <ianmwilson73 at gmail.com>
> Sent: Sunday, January 27, 2013 12:09 PM
> To: boatanchors at mailman.qth.net
> Subject: Re: [Boatanchors] Harvey-Wells VFO stabilization etc
> 
> Thanks to all for the tips.
> 
> I added a 365pF air variable cap across the (50 ohm) load. Slight
> improvement but the loading control has little effect. The plate does
> dip. Am going to settle for 25W. Key-down plate voltage is about 470V.
> 
> Changed the hookup so the VFO is enabled/disabled by a spare
> pole on my TX/RX knife switch. This is reasonably stable and the chirp
> is negligible. The backwave that is present during key-up (TX switch
> on) is actually useful for spotting :)
> 
> At 8am there were quite a few signals on 40m but now it has died
> completely here in SoCal. Will try again later.
> 
> 73, ian K3IMW
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