SG Labs 3400MHz Txvtr

[VK2XAX]

Nice work Darrell!

I see a "Pre-amp" switch on there, what are you using as a pre-amp ?

Looks like I had better climb on the roof on the weekend to install a dish on the tower so I can point at you

cheers
Tim

[VK2BLS]

Hi Tim,

I fitted switch for the preamp, but it is still 'in the mail' Was 2 weeks delivery, then advised June.
ZX60-362LN-S+ -Mini Circuits LNA 3300-3600 MHz
I think Hayden has used these, not sure how he found them.
Hilary said he is also getting close.
Working Ted VK2ARA with 2W locally, but he has a fault in his Stealth 3437 amp and no luck finding a circuit yet.
Have a re-purposed 2.4Ghz 600mm grid, fitted with Ted's custom made 3.4Ghz Bi-Quad.
Fingers crossed we can make it up to you guys.

Cheers, Darrell

[VK2XAX]

And that sent me on a quest for a LNA for my rig, I coudn't find the 362LN, well not at a reasonable price but I did find a new Mini-Circuits ZX60-3800LN-S on Ebay for less money than a new 362.

The IP3 & gain specs are a bit better than the 362 but with a similar NF of 0.9dB.

Code: Select all

Model              Gain    IP3   
ZX60-362LN-S+      15.dB  22dBm
ZX60-3800LN-S      24dB   35dBm

Now I just have to add some more relays and a switch to the transverter

cheers
Tim

[VK2BLS]

Hi Tim,

I finally received my Mini-Circuits Preamp and fitted. I ordered the 362-LN from Clarke & Seven (AU) was $165 free post. They had to import, but must have stocked up. Ted VK2ARA order only took a few days to get. The 3800-LN version is listed at $301, but higher specs and bit wider. This pre-amp works nicely. It now lifts signals out of noise to make readible. After many 'one-way' QSO attempts on digi with Tim and Hilary, the pre-amp now gives me similar rx reports. Hilary VK2AZ at Penrith runs 2W ( I think on steroids) and we have now managed contacts on Digi, CW and SSB modes over the 86Km, thanks to the pre-amp and conditions being favourable.
I used 12V Dynatech relays (0-18Ghz) to switch it. The Pre-amp is quite compact with SMA connections and runs at 5V.
It is good to see rising interest in 9CM. Looking forward to the 23 on 23 days.

Cheers,
Darrell vk2bls