Cable-Tronix CTA-35-1000PR User manual

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INSTALLATION MANUAL
CTA-35-1000PR
Wall Mount Distribution Amplifier

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PACKAGE CONTENTS
This package contains:
One CTA-35-1000PR Wall Mount Distribution Amplifier
One CTA-35-1000PR Installation Manual
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The CTA-35-1000PR is a wall mount push-pull amplifier producing signals with extremely low
distortion and harmonic content. The unit is capable of full channel operation from 54MHz to 1000
MHz. The CTA-35-1000PR’s low-noise and low distortion specs allow it to be used in large
networks requiring amplifier cascading. Key features include: adjustable slope control, adjustable
gain control, input and output test ports, easy access controls, and shielded RFI enclosures.
SPECIFICATIONS
CTA-35-1000PR
Wall Mount Distribution Amplifier Specifications (Typical)
RF
1. Bandwidth
54-1000 MHz
2. Gain
35 dB
3. Gain Adjust Range
0 – 16 dB variable
4. Flatness
±1 dB maximum (54-1000MHz)
5. Input Capability 1 dB Compression
29 dBmV @ 55.25MHz
6. Noise Figure
7 dB (54-1000MHz)
7. Maximum Output Level per Channel
40 dBmV minimum @70 channel load
8. Composite Second Order
-57 dBC
9. Composite Triple Beat
-57 dBC
10. Return Loss In
12 dB @75Ω
11. Return Loss Out
12 dB @75Ω
12. Test Ports
-20 dB
GENERAL
1.Power Requirements
117 VAC, 60Hz, 30W
2.Operating Temperature
32 ˚F ~ 122 ˚F
3.Connectors
All "F" Type
MECHANICAL
1.Dimensions
9" (W) x 5.4" (H) x 2” (D)
2.Weight
3 lbs

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
1. UNPACKING and HANDLING
Each unit is shipped with all equipment assembled, and factory tested.
Ensure that all accessories are removed from the container before discarding packing material
2. MECHANICAL INSPECTION
Inspect the front and rear of the equipment for shipping damage. Make sure the equipment is
clean, and no connectors are broken, damaged, or loose. If equipment appears to be
damaged or defective please contact us at 1-610-429-1511 for assistance.
3. PRODUCT DIAGRAM
NOTE TO SYSTEM INSTALLER
System installer must adhere to Article 820-40 of the NEC that
provides guidelines for proper grounding and specifies that the
cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the
building, as close to the point of cable entry as practical.



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1
Gain Adjust
For RF gain adjustment
2
Tilt Adjust
For Slope adjustment over the entire bandwidth
3
Input
Input RF signal
4
Output
Amplified RF signal available for output
5
-20 dB Input Test Port
Input test port to monitor input level to the amplifier
6
-20 dB Output Test Port
Output test port for amplifier setup and monitoring
7
Power Cable
For connection to a 120 VAC, 60Hz outlet
4. HARDWARE CONNECTIONS
a. Mount the CTA-35-1000PR securely onto a wall or equipment rack using screws or
bolts through the mounting tabs.
b. Connect a 75ohm coaxial cable with F-connectors from the RF source output to
CTA-35-1000PR’s Input port.
c. Connect a 75ohm coaxial cable with F-connectors from the CTA-35-1000PR’s Output
port to the RF distribution network.
d. Terminate the Input Test port with a Cabletronix F-59T terminator when not in use.
e. Terminate the Output Test port with a Cabletronix F-59T terminator when not in use.
f. Connect the CTA-35-000PR to an appropriate power source capable of powering this
device. Be certain that power source is capable of handling the load if the
CTA-35-1000PR and other equipment are being powered by it.
5. ADJUSTMENT
The chart below shows the proper operation levels for the CTA-35-1000PR. Note the listed
performance criteria are for specific numbers of channels, and must be de-rated accordingly
when inserting additional channels. However, the amplifier’s gain does not change.
Therefore, as the number of channels increases from seven (7) channels, the input level and
the output level must be reduced. Exceeding the input levels listed below will product
intermodulation and picture distortion.
Number
Of Channels
Maximum
Level Input (dB)
Maximum
Level Output (dB)
7
36
65
12
33
57
36
24
50
54
16
46
77
13
44
Connect an RF spectrum analyzer or signal level meter to the CTA-35-1000PR’s Input Test
port.
Turn the CTA-35-1000PR’s Gain Adjust control to achieve the input and output levels
identified above. Additional attenuators may be needed to further reduce the input level.
The CTA-35-1000PR’s Tilt Adjust control should be used to set the appropriate slope per
system specifications. Note that the Tilt Adjust allows the adjustment of the gain-to-frequency

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characteristic of the amplifier.
When making adjustments always apply the following principles:
Input signal levels should ALWAYS exceed the noise figure of the amplifier by 3 to 6
dB.
The primary purpose of tilt (equalization) in a cable TV plant is to compensate for the
slope generated in coaxial cable between the high and low TV frequencies. When
various TV channels, with respect to frequency, are transmitted through coaxial cable
they are subjected to increasing attenuation (loss). Simply put, as the frequencies of
the TV carriers are increased, attenuation loss (dB) increases. A variable tilt control is
installed in this amplifier to compensate for this slope in cable resulting in a flat
frequency response at the output
6.TROUBLESHOOTING
a. Ensure you are using quality multiple shielded cables with quality radial or
compression F-connectors.
b. Ensure the F-connector’s center conductor is making solid contact with the
CTA-35-1000PR’s Input and Output ports, and the appropriate RF source and RF
distribution network connectors.
c. When taking measurements it is always best to use an RF spectrum analyzer or
quality signal level meter. Initially, level measurements should be taken from the
CTA-35-1000PR’s Output port. However, for testing while the amplifier is in service
use the Input Test and Output Test ports for setup and field maintenance. Note that
each Test port is padded down –20 dB and the 20 dB must be added back in when
determining level settings and output.
This is a notice to inform you that content passing thru this device may contain strong
language or depictions of violence, sex or substance abuse. This unit contains no
parental control features. Parental discretion is advised.