3-Position Coaxial Antenna Switch Recommendations

[W2XR]

Guys,

I am looking for an off-the-shelf 3-position coaxial antenna switch that can safely handle 4 KW PEP. This switch will be used to select either the main plate modulated AM rig (the 4 KW PEP requirement is necessated by this transmitter), or the other two stations here at W2XR (both 1 KW PEP, max.).

Does anyone have any recommendations?

Thanks & 73,

Bruce

[Ed-VA3ES]

I have no idea whether the Daiwa or the Alpha-Delta switches will do the job, but certainly this one will!

     

http://www.bird-electronic.com/products/product.aspx?id=257

[WA1GFZ]

Yup that Bird will handle 5 KW PEP and I've used them with TACAN radar at a couple KW. Just make sure the type N cable connectors are assembled correctly.
This type is all I use

[W2XR]

Hmmm,

The Bird switch that Ed included the link to (the Bird specs) has a maximum power rating of 850W at 100 Mhz. However, the switch is rated to 500 volts, which across 50 ohms is 5 KW. This appears to be inconsistent.

Perhaps there are other Bird switches with a power level more suitable for my application; i.e. 4 KW PEP.

Frank, you confirmed the use of a Bird switch for power levels of up to 5 KW. I thinK I had better go to Bird's website and see what else they have available, or speak with their applications engineering guys.

Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.

Best 73,

Bruce

[WD8BIL]

The Bird switch will handle the power just fine at HF Frequencies. Used one at the last job for years switching 10KW up to 35 Mhz.

Since the amateur limit is 1500 W PEP the A.D. switch will work OKFB too.
I gots 3 here in the lab switching 500w at 1Ghz A.M. modulated at 80 % with 1 Khz.
(Telechordia GR 1089 RF Immunity testing)

been inline for 5 years with no problem.

[WA1GFZ]

I used that BC375 switch in my first 4-1000A rig.
The Bird switch guts interface directly to the connector center pins so if everything is assembled properly the rating is a Type n connector.
The hunk of cable between the contacts is teflon dielectric like RG393
A real KISS design

[AB2EZ]

Bruce

Check out the Array Solutions antenna switches:

http://www.arraysolutions.com/Products/ratpak.htm#top%20of%20page

I've been very satisfied with their 6-position remote-controlled switch. It has the power rating you require (5kW for the standard model, 10-20 kW for the special model) ... and it is very convenient to be able to locate the switching matrix in a different place from the control box. If you prefer, you can buy the switching matrix box, and build your own control box.

They also sell the relays separately.

Happy New Year!
Stu

[WD8BIL]

Good choice, Stu !!

I LOVE remote coass switching.

[AB2EZ]

Here's an eBay listing for a new Bird 7441 switch (133 euros ~ $196.00) that shows the details of what it looks like inside.

http://cgi.ebay.it/BIRD-7441--PROFESSIONAL-ANTENNA-SWITCH-3-POSITION_W0QQitemZ330196801549QQcmdZViewItem

They actually do the equivalent of unplugging a connector from its mate on one of the poles and reinserting it into one of the other poles!

Stu

[N3DRB The Derb]

yeah that's how all them "pull, twist, push" switches work. They are the maximus, but I still wouldn't hot switch it, or any switch.

[WA1GFZ]

I have two types in my Shack DPDT transfer great for phased antenna switching and single pole 6 position. All purchased at Hostraders. I've seen them as cheap as $30. I've seen them as high as $100
Hot switch them and you will blow the contacts. I've replaced a contact before pita but can be done.