There is a station that is using a AM class C to feed a translator. The old AM transmitter is "old" and unreliable. I looked at several web sites and there is a wide difference in used prices. What should I expect to pay for a solid state Xmitter to keep power bills low and the FCC happy?
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I KW AM transmitters
- Thread starter secondchoice
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When buying a used transmitter, you want to make sure that replacement parts are available.
A cheap transmitter that is no longer supported by the manufacturer is not a bargain.
You get what you pay for.
A cheap transmitter that is no longer supported by the manufacturer is not a bargain.
You get what you pay for.
Beyond that, in the 1 kw and under range, new solid state transmitters are so nicely priced that you have to consider the maintenance cost of older tube models. Tubes get more and more expensive as do obsolete ICs and discreet transistors. And the power bills of less efficient rigs may eat up any used gear savings; check power efficiency.
If the rig is used just to stay on the air to support the translator, one that has multiple modules is best as most, even when one fails, stay on the air at slightly less power giving time to service. Look for a model where the modules are replacable and where you can pick up a spare or two.
Check the manufacturer as to whether they are still in business; you don't want an old Energy-Onyx (some here will chuckle over that!).
Here is an example of what not to buy:
The Energy Onix Pulsar transmitter – Engineering Radio
www.engineeringradio.us
"This all brings to mind the life cycle of solid state components. One problem with the new technology; most solid state components have a short production life, especially things like multiplier chips. Transmitters are generally expected to last 15-20 years in primary service. Thus, transmitter manufactures need to use chips that will not become obsolete (good luck with that), or purchase and maintain a large stock of spare parts."
David's advise is spot on. There are even some manufacturers who are still around that I wouldn't recommend buying a used transmitter. Rig's like the Harris SX-series should be avoided, because even though solid state, many of the IC's for the elaborate controller and exciter are no longer made/available. When one of these transmitters fail, you could be down for weeks trying to source repair parts.Check the manufacturer as to whether they are still in business; you don't want an old Energy-Onyx (some here will chuckle over that!).
Here is an example of what not to buy:
The Energy Onix Pulsar transmitter – Engineering Radio
"This all brings to mind the life cycle of solid state components. One problem with the new technology; most solid state components have a short production life, especially things like multiplier chips. Transmitters are generally expected to last 15-20 years in primary service. Thus, transmitter manufactures need to use chips that will not become obsolete (good luck with that), or purchase and maintain a large stock of spare parts."
Nautel can work a deal on the JT1000.
Wish it had Cquam in it like the NX series
Wish it had Cquam in it like the NX series
Are there frequency synthesizers available for older AM Broadcast transmitters?
Yes, but not cost effective. Operating an older tube AM transmitter is expensive, due to tube costs, heat load and electrical usage, compared to a modern solid state AM transmitter.
Xtals can be had from Quartslab.com
Yes they can...send them the schematic or specs on the xtals and they can make it..they make crystals for UHF land mobile radios and they are ICM quality
If Quartslab cannot help you then these people can; IQD - Quartz Crystal, Clock Oscillator, TCXO, VCTCXO, VCXO, OCXO, GPS Disciplined OCXO, Rubidium Oscillator
Do not buy a used transmitter for a main transmitter.
Nautel has deals for new J1000 rigs that will save you money in the long run verses buying an old used tube rig. Nautel is also known for their support and service. They are the only transmitters I spec anymore when people are needing to replace older rigs. Trying to rig something to use for your main transmitter will also cause you nothing but pain and heartache and will overall cost more than buying new.
The transmitter is THE most important part of your radio station. It is not the place to cut corners.
Read it again, do not buy a used transmitter for a main transmitter. You've been warned by the people that know.
Nautel has deals for new J1000 rigs that will save you money in the long run verses buying an old used tube rig. Nautel is also known for their support and service. They are the only transmitters I spec anymore when people are needing to replace older rigs. Trying to rig something to use for your main transmitter will also cause you nothing but pain and heartache and will overall cost more than buying new.
The transmitter is THE most important part of your radio station. It is not the place to cut corners.
Read it again, do not buy a used transmitter for a main transmitter. You've been warned by the people that know.
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