[R-390] New Subscriber with questions

[William J. Neill]

Mention of the rack used for R-390( ) mounting brought back the memory that
the std military rack, with brackets, for fixed station use was/is the
CY-1119/U, of which I have three.  Anyone ever see these relics at any
auctions or surplus dealers?  The racks used in the mobile GRC-26D, MRR-5,
MRR-6. and MRR-8, to name a few, are identified in their respective
TM's/TO's but I cannot recall their identities here and now.

William J. Neill
Conroe, Texas

Todd Bigelow - PS wrote:

> Hi Tony -
>
> Congrats on the 'new' rig. Here are a couple thoughts:
>
> <snip>
>
> > First and foremost in my mind is the question regarding
> > what is the normal way of dealing with the J108 balanced
> > antenna input jack?  I have nothing like that in my inventory,
> > in fact I don't even recall ever seeing anything that will
> > mate with it (although obviously there is!).  Is there an
> > adaptor (that is affordable) to adapt it to the standard
> > PL259?
>
> Easiest approach(next to paying a lot of money for an adapter)is to make
> up a jumper with an IBM network connector on one end and the plug or
> socket of your choice on the other end. The IBM 'twinax' network
> connectors are available for somewhere around $2-$3 and you can run it
> out to a PL-259 on the other end for a switchbox connection if you wish,
> or directly to the antenna.
>
> > Was there/is there a cabinet enclosure for the R390 or is
> > rack mounting the only way to go?  This one has the dust
> > cover on the top, etc...no feet on cabinet...(suggestions)?
>
> I'd suggest an old Air Force surplus rack if you can find one. They have
> a squirrel-cage blower at the bottom and a more typical fan on top for
> exhaust. Not only will a rack keep your rig cooler, it's also a good
> place to stash the R-390A and SP-600, as well as a speaker and other
> goodies.
>
> > A quick check shows that all controls/meters work, and I am
> > assuming, "as they should".  Are there any recommendations
> > (initial DO's and DON'Ts for a newbie owner)?
>
> Don't use the 'standby' mode. I'm sure there are other things as well.
>
> > While in the USAF, I never was fortunate enough to get the R390
> > at my "position", although they began arriving shortly before
> > I got out (1961).  So it has taken 40+ years for me to "UPGRADE"
> > from the beloved SP-600, but I finally made it! 8-)
>
> Don't muster out the SP-600 - it comes in handy as a band cruiser for
> fast searches and the like. It's also more justification for that rack!
>
> Welcome to the group, there is an incredible wealth of information
> available at your fingertips. Enjoy the rig, and keep us posted on your
> progress.
>
> 73 de Todd/'Boomer'  KA1KAQ
>
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