Albrecht AE 497 W User manual

User Manual
AE 497 W (25-30 W-Version)
10-Meter Amateur Radio Base Station

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Legal notes and general information
This amateur radio base station complies to the minimum requirements of the EU directives 2004/108/EG (EMC),
full fills the harmonized EU standards EN 301 783-2 (commercial available amateur radio products , EN 301 489-1
und-15 (EMC) und EN 60950-1:2006 (safety and LVD -directive 73/23/EWG) nad is marked with the CE logo.
Following conditions apply:
In all European countries this transceiver is subject to national amateur radio regulations. It may be used
only by persons, who have obtained a valid amateur radio licence.
Radio amateurs are only allowed to use this radio on assigned amateur radio frequencies within the 10 m
band, even if this radio should be able to switch other adjacent frequencies. National regulations may
exist for environmental RF protection and must be applied by the operator.
It is not allowed to use this radio for any other purpose except amateur radio.
If this radio shall be used in a configuration with other accessory items or amplifiers, the radio amateur is
responsible to keep the radiations within the legal limits of his licence class, especially he has to follow the rules
and standards of the above mentioned EU directive and technical standards, especially EN 301 783-2. It may be
necessary to add separate harmonics filters when combining to amplifiers or SWR meters or antenna switching
devices.
This radio is not declared to be used in cars during motion, because we cannot declare that there is no possible
influence on the electronic engine management. Please respect the automotive directive requirements, which
request that such devices are not allowed to be connected to the car network as long as the car engine is running.
These restrictions are only valid for passenger cars and trucks and do not apply to parking recreation vehicles,
boats or other environments with 12 V power supply.
ALAN ELECTRONICS GMBH
The text of the English manual corresponds to international versions and is not in all parts equal to the German
language user manual.

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SPECIFICATIONS
GENERAL
Frequency Range …………………………………………………...28.000 to 29.699MHz
Frequency Control ………………………………….Phase Lock Loop (PLL) synthesizer
Frequency Stability………………………………………………………………… ± 300HZ
Frequency Tolerance ………………………………………………………………0.0003%
Emission Mode…………………………………………… A3E(AM), F3E(FM), J3E(SSB)
Microphone ………………Electret type 6 pin plug, with PTT, up/down and coiled cord
Input Voltage …………………………………13.8V DC nominal, 15,9V max. 12.0V min
230V AC
Size (WDH)………………………………………………………………300 x 240 x 85mm
Weight …………………………………………………………………………………..3,4Kg
Antenna Connector…………………………………………. SO-239 50 ohm unbalanced
Speaker……………………………………………………………………….8 ohm, 3 watts
TRANSMITTER
Power Output ……………………AM max. 7-8W, FM 25W-30 W, SSB 25W-30W PEP
Spurious Emission …………………………………..……………….-36 dBm or – 60 dBc
Current Drain No Modulation ……………………………………….FM/AM less than 4 A
SSB …………………………………………………..…without modulation less than 1.0A
Current Drain SSB with Modulation………………………………….SSB less than 4 A
Modulation Frequency Response
(1 KHz, 0dB Reference)……………………….....Lower, at 450Hz, AM -6dB, SSB -6dB
Upper, at 2.5KHz, AM -6dB, SSB -6dB
Microphone Sensitivity …………………………………………..AM 2.mV for 60% mod
FM 1.8mV for 1.5 kHz deviation
Microphone Amplifier ………………….AM 50dB (between 89% and 80% modulation)
SSB 50dB (between 25 W PEP and 10W PEP)
RECEIVER
Max Sensitivity for 6dB S/N………………………………… AM 0.5uV, FM/SSB 0.25uV
Sensitivity for 10dB S/N ……………………………………..AM 0.5uV, FM/SSB 0.25uV
Overload Audio Fidelity at 6dB Down ………………………………….450Hz ~ 2000 Hz
Adjacent Channel Selectivity …………………..………………FM/AM 60dB, SSB 70dB
Image Rejection (5.6MHz) ……………………………………Typically better than 90 dB
IF Rejection …………………………………………………………………..70dB or better
Max Audio Output Power …………………………………………..AM/FM/SSB 2.5 watts
Squelch Range……………………………………………..Adjustable from 0.5Uv to 1mV
Receiver Clarifier Range…………………………………………….…±1.25KHz Variable
Dynamic Range………………………………………………………………… 65dB (SSB)

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Overview: Knobs and Keyboard functions
1. POWER ON/OFF SWITCH
This switch turns the transceiver power on and off.
2. HEAD PHONE JACK
Connect head phone plug, Impedance > 32 Ohms, Mono
3. MICROPHONE INPUT
6 pin socket for Albrecht Standard Electret Hand Microphone
4. VOLUME CONTROL
Controls audio output level
5. SQUELCH CONTROL
Used to quiet the receiver during absence of receive signals
Sensitivity to incoming signals is fully adjustable
6. POWER CONTROL Fine adjusting of the Transmit Output Power, down to 3 W
FM/SSB or 0.5 Watt AM
7. CLARIFIER CONTROL
This control provides an adjustment for turning in stations which are slightly OFF
frequency, to optimise the AM and SSB reception and transmission.
8. RF GAIN & MIC GAIN CONTROL
Control the receiver sensitivity by RF GAIN CONTROL (outer knob) to reduce
interference. To decrease RF gain, turn the knob counter clockwise. For the
maximum receiver sensitivity, the RF GAIN control must be rotated clockwise.
MIC GAIN CONTROL (inner knob)
This control provides the proper or desired modulation.
9. CHANNEL SELECTOR SWITCH
This Rotary switch selects the frequency steps. (Switch not active during
transmission)
1
2
3 4 5 678910 11
16
22
14
13
18 17 19
12
21 20
15

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10. SWR CALIBRATION CONTROL
The calibration control provides (while keying transmitter) meter calibration
adjustment enabling true standing wave ratio reference.
11. CAL/ SWR/ MOD SELECTION
This switch is used to select the scale to be read on the SWR/ Power Meter. The
switch has three positions MOD (Modulation), CAL (Calibrate), SWR (Standing Wave
Ratio)
KEYBOARD switches 12 - 19
Some of these switches have a double or even 3 way functions. Pressing the
FUNCTION knob (17) before lets You select the second function of the key. In some
cases the third function is selected automatically depending on Your logical actions
before.
Primary function is indicated by “FUNCTION OFF:” This means no FUNC button
shall be pressed
Second function is indicated with “ FUNCTION ON: “ This means that You must
press the FUNC button shortly before using the desired button.
• Third function is always indicated in this way
12. MODE / LOW / MEMORY 5 SWITCH
Double function button: without pressing FUNCTION before:
MODE FUNCTION – select one of the operation modes
FM / AM / USB / LSB
• Load channel in the memory 5 with MEM switch.
After pressing FUNCTION button before:
LOW FUNCTON – This switch activates tone low (high cut) circuits.
• Save channel in the 5 with MEM switch.
13. MEMORY SWITCH
FUNCTION OFF:
MEMORY LOAD FUNCTION – Load one of the 5 memory channels with 5 numeric
key.
FUNCTION ON:
MEMORY SAVE FUNCTION – Save one of the 5 memory channels with 5 numeric
key.

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14. LCR / MEMORY 4 SWITCH
FUNCTION OFF:
LCR (Last Channel Recall) FUNCTION – Press LCR to return to the last channel that
was used for longer than 3 seconds or was transmitted on.
• Load channel in the memory 4 with MEM switch
FUNCTION ON;
• Save channel in the memory 4 with MEM switch
15. CALL / MEMORY 2 SWITCH
FUNCTION OFF:
CALL FUNCTION – This switch is used to access a reprogrammed frequency
(memory 2)
• Load channel in the memory 2 with MEM switch
FUNCTION ON:
• Save channel in the memory 2 with MEM switch
16. DIM SWITCH
FUNCTION OFF:
DIM FUNCTION – This switch is used to switch the instruments and keyboard
illumination from bright to dimmer.
17. FUNC SWITCH
BRIEF PUSH: This switch activates as FUNCTION switch the secondary function of
double function switches.
18. STEP / NB / MEMORY 1 SWITCH
FUNCTION OFF:
STEP FUNCTION – This switch is used for select one of the frequency steps
between: 1KHz / 10KHz / 100KHz
1KHz: Sets 1KHz digit of the desired operating frequency.
10KHz: Sets 10 KHz digit of the desired operating frequency.
100 KHz: Sets 100KHz digit of the desired operating frequency.
• Load channel in the memory 1 with MEM switch.
FUNCTION ON:
NB FUNCTION – (Noise Blanker) If your reception is disturbed by interference from
impulse type noise (ignition noise and other electrical noise press NB to reduce or
eliminate the noise)
• Save channel in the memory 1 with MEM switch.

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19. SCAN / SHIFT / MEMORY 3 SWITCH
FUNCTION OFF:
SCAN FUNCTION – Set the scan mode on/off in RX mode.
• Load channel in the memory 3 with MEM switch.
FUNCTION ON:
SHIFT FUNCTION for Repeater operation – Press the shift switch to select the
direction: + SHIFT / -SHIFT. Press more than 3 seconds the SHIFT switch to select
to off-set step: 0 ~ 990KHz. In most countries 100 kHz shift is usual. You can get
more information by the local amateur radio clubs.
• Save channel in the memory 3 with MEM switch.
20. LCD DISPLAY
LCD indicates the frequency or channels if selected.
21. MOD / SWR ANALOG METER
This meter reflects SWR calibration and modulation, operated in TX mode.
22. S / RF ANALOG METER
In receive mode, this meter displays incoming signal strength. In the transmit mode
this Meter displays RF power.
BEEP/TONE
Turning on power switch while keeping PTT key pressed sets beep mode on/off.
Display Panel Features: Illustrated below are all the VISUAL INDICATORS that
appear on the display, and the corresponding feature function that they associate
with.
Liquid Crystal Display Panel: The liquid crystal panel provides the user with a visual
information on the operation and status of the AE 497 W.
CAUTION: Due to the physical behaviour of LCD’s, liquid crystal displays should not
be subjected to extremes of temperature or humidity. If the unit is exposed to
temperatures below -20°C (-5°F) or above + 60°C ( +140°F), the display may
temporarily cease to function properly, and in some cases, could result in permanent

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damage. Do not subject radio to extreme conditions, such as closed automobile in
direct sunlight or continuous sub zero temperatures.
All liquid crystal displays have a preferred viewing angle when the display contrast is
at a maximum. The best viewing point will vary by user, depending on such variables
as temperature, humidity, battery condition, and the actual users eyesight.
• Function ( FUNC) Mode: Indicates that the “FUNC” button has been selected,
which allows for operation of many of the various features.
• AM: Indicates AM mode operation.
• FM: Indicates FM mode operation.
• USB: Indicates Upper Sideband mode operation.
• LSB: Indicates Lower Sideband mode operation.
• SCAN: Indicates that the radio is in the “scan” mode which works in
conjunction with all frequency and five memory locations.
• Frequency Readout: Displays the corresponding frequency associated with
the channel you are communicating with.
• LOW: Indicates that the Tone Low feature has been turned on.
• SHIFT: Indicates that the SHIFT (+ and -).
• NB: Indicates that the Noise Blanker features has been turned on.
• “L”: Indicates that the memory recall ( = Load) mode has been activated
• “S”: Indicates that the radio is in the “Memory Store” mode, ready to receive a
channel into one of the memory locations.
• TX: Indicates that the radio is in the “transmit” mode.
ANALOG INDICATOR METER:
A B
A S-TX METER: Indicates relative incoming signal strength and RF out put
power.

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BModulation / SWR Meter: Measures the percent modulation of the AM signal.
Note that the CAL/SWR/MOD switch must be in the “MOD” position for the
meter to measure and read modulation.
SWR METER: Measures the ratios of standing wave ratio of the antenna system,
which is critical in properly adjusting the length antenna and all related electrical
connections. This meter will indicate if there are any major changes in these critical
areas caused by such things as humidity, vibration, or corrosion, which will cause the
SWR Meter to rise. A rising SWR indicates that a problem exists.
To Calibrate SWR:
a) Set the radio into the AM mode.
b) Switch the CAL/SWR/MOD knob to the SWR position
c) Transmit by pressing the PTT button on the microphone, and adjust the
SWR/CAL, control until the needle reaches the CAL position on the meter.
d) Put the CAL/SWR/MOD knob back to the SWR position, and read the SWR value.
INSTALLATION
LOCATION OF THE RADIO
Prior to beginning operation if the transceiver, a basic installation must be prepared.
Installation of the transceiver itself is a rather simple procedure. In selecting the
location for the unit, two basic factors must be considered:
A. Access to 230V, 50Hz or 13,8V DC power source.
B. The location must be convenient for running the antenna lead in cable if an
outside antenna installation is proposed.
BASE STATION ANTENNA
Since the maximum allowable power output of the transmitter may be limited by the
Regulations or Licence classes, the antenna is the most important factor affecting
transmission distance. Only a properly matched antenna will allow maximum power
transfer from the 50 ohm transmission line to the radiating element.
The recommended method of antenna turning is to use the built in SWR meter to
adjust the antenna turning for maximum reflected power. The radio may be used with
any type of 50 ohm base station antenna.
A ground plane vertical antenna will provide the most uniform horizontal coverage.
This type of antenna is best suited for communication with a mobile unit. For point to
point operation where both stations are fixed, a directional beam will usually increase
communicating range since this beam antenna also allows the receiver to “listen” in
only one direction, thus reducing interfering signals.

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OPERATING PROCEDURES TO RECEIVE
1. Turn the radio ON by pressing the POWER switch.
2. Press the “Mode” selection button (labeled “5” on the button) continuously until
you find the mode of operation you desire to operate in (AM, FM, USB, LSB).
3. Adjust the VOLUME control until you reach your desired listening level.
4. Turn the frequency selector knob to the desired operating frequency.
5. Turn the RF GAIN control completely clockwise.
6. Adjust the “CLARIFIER” control to clarify the SSB signals (start from middle
position).
7. Listen to the background noise coming from the radio. Turn the squelch control
slowly until the noise just disappears. (No signal should now be present). Leave
the control at this setting. The SQUELCH is now properly adjusted. The receiver
will remain quiet until a signal is actually received. Do not advance the knob too
far, as some of the weaker signals will not be heard.
OPERATING PRODEDURE TO TRANSMIT
1. Select the desired frequency of transmission.
2. Set the MIC GAIN control fully clockwise.
3. Activate the press to talk switch. The receiver and transmitter are controlled by
the press to talk switch on the microphone. Press the switch and the transmitter is
activated. Release the switch to receiver.
4. Hold the microphone two inches from your mouth, speak in a clear normal voice.
5. The S-TX meter will indicate power output and the modulation meter will indicate
percentage of modulation as you speak into the microphone.
CAUTION: Be sure the antenna is properly connected to the radio before
transmitting. Transmitting without an antenna or a poorly matched antenna could
cause damage to the transmitter.
RESEIVING SSB SIGNALS
There are four types of signals presently used for communications in the Citizen
Band: AM, FM, USB and LSB. When the MODE switch on your unit is placed in the
AM position, only standard double sideband, fully carrier signals will be detected. An
SSB signal may be recognized while in the AM mode to produce an intelligible
output. The USB and LSB modes will detect upper sideband an lower sideband
respectively, and standard AM signals.