[amsat-bb] Re: Preamps on IC-910

[Scott Townley]

Alan's figures on the icom preamp draw match mine.
FWIW I use ARR mast-mount preamps with my IC-821.  Unless something major changed between models.
Also, if you are using the RF-sensing ARR preamps (which the 200mA draw would be), then in one sense you are semi-protected from reversing modes by the RF sense/PTT in the preamp.  However, that semi-protection has been known to fail, which is why the weak-signal community is so disposed to sequencers.
Personally (again, on my IC-821) I found it so painful to switch the preamp power from one mode to another than I ended up running preamp power separately and just using lit toggle switches.  You have to go into the menu on the '821 to set the preamp power to 2m/70cm/both/none...too many button pushes and opportunities for error.

--
Scott Townley NX7U
Gilbert, AZ  DM43di

---- WB2LLP <wb2llp at optonline.net> wrote: 
> I am trying to improve my satellite receiving capability but find it interesting that I can not find anything in the IC-910 literature that specifies how much current the radio can supply  for a pre-amp.  It is also interesting to note that they do not specify the current drawn by their pre-amps, or their noise figure.  
> 
> I want to use ARR preamps but can not determine if the radio can safely supply the 200 ma they want. I would certainly not want to damage the radio trying to improve the hearing.  I assume that there is someone on this reflector who is using those pre-amps on a 910 and confirm that it works or does not work.
> 
> The other question might be is it safer to power the pre-amps from a separate supply.  This might make it safer when reversing the up and down bands.  
> 
> Gene   
> WB2LLP 
> _______________________________________________
> Sent via AMSAT-BB at amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author.
> Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program!
> Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb