Hallicrafters 5X-117 Training manual

OPERATING AND
SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS
FOR •••
COMMUNICATION
RECEIVER
MODEL 5X-117

"The Hallicrafter's Company warrants each new radio product manu-
factured by it to be free. from defective material and workmanship
and agrees to remedy any such defect or to furnish a new part in ex-
change for any part of any unit of its manufacture which under nor-
mal installation, use and service discloses such defect, provided the
unit
is delivered by the owner to our allthorized radio dealer, whole-
saler, from whom purchased, or, authorized service center, illtact, for
examination, with all transportation charges prepaid within ninety
days from tile date
of sale to original purchaser Imd provided that
such examillation discloses in our judgment that it is thus defective.
This warranty 'does not
extend to allY of Ollr radio products which
have been subjected to misuse, neglect, accident, illcorrect wiring
IIOt
our own, improper installation, or to use in violation of instrllctions
furnished by us, nor
extended to units which have been repaired or
altered alitside of Ollr factory or authorized service center, nor to cases
where the serial number thereof has bel'li removed, defacedorchanged,
nor to accessories used therewith
IIOt of our own manufacture.
Any part of a unit al'llroved for remedy or exchange hereunder will
be remedied or exchanged
by the authorized radio dealer or whole-
saler without charge to the owner.
This warranty
is in lieu of all other u:arranties expressed or iml,lied
and no representative or I,erson is allthorized to assllme for liS allY
other liability in connection witl. tl.e sale of our radio products:'

092-016679
Figure 1. Hal/icrafters' Model SX - 117.
SECTION I
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Model SX-117 is a triple--conversion, super-
heterodyne-type comm uni cations receiver having
the following features:
• Op eration on most fr eq u encies from 85 KC to
30 MC (see paragraph 5-7).
• A VFO which can be used as a crystal- l ocked
oscillator for fixed-channel operation (see
paragraph 5-8).
• A high order of mechanical and elect ri cal
stability.
• An easy -t o- r ead dial.
• A constant tuning rate on a ll bands.
• A transmitter-type VFO.
• B acklash -fr ee combi nati on pinch and g ear
drive.
• Crystal-controlled first and third conversion
oscillators .
• Less than 1/ 2 microvolt sensitivity on SSB/ CWo
-/ -
• Excellent spurious and image rejection.
• Selectable sidebands.
• Selectivity variable in thr ee steps, 500 CPS,
2.5 KC, and 5 KC.
• Amplified fast -att ack, slow-release AVC for
SSB/CW; fast-attack, fast-release for AM.
• Pr oduct detector for SSB/CW; enve l ope detec-
tor for AM.
• IF-type noise limiter.
• 100-KC Crystal Calibrator.
• Audio inv erse feedback.
• Approximate 1-KC marks on tuning knob skirt.
• Variable T-Notch rejection filter.
• Gr ea tly r ed u ced weight through us e of a lumi-
num for c hassis, panel, cab in et, brackets, etc .
• New smaller size.

SECTION II
TECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONS
Basic Frequency Coverage
*WWV ..................................... 9.5 MC to 10.0 MC
80-Meter Band. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 3.5 MC to 4.0 MC
40-Meter Band
20-Meter Band
15-Meter Band
*10-Meter Band
10-Meter Band
*10-Meter Band
*10-Meter Band
*Crystals not supplied.
7.0 MC to 7.5 MC
14.0 MC to 14.5 MC
21.0 MC to 21.5 MC
28.0 MC to 28.5 MC
28.5
MC to 29.0 MC
29.0 MC to 29.5 MC
29.5 MC to 30.0 MC
Note - See paragraph 5-7 for additional information.
IF Frequencies: .......... .
Reception: ..•............
Sensitivity -AM: .......•...
3 MC to 30 MC
Sensitivity -SSB/CW: ...•...
3 MC to 30 MC
Sensitivity (with HA-10):
85
KC to 3 MC
Selectivity:
Stability: ......•.........
Calibration Accuracy: ...... .
IF Rejection: ............ .
In-Band Tweets: .......... .
Audio
Power Output: ....... .
AVC Figure of Merit:
Power Source: ........... .
Power Consumption: ..•.....
Number of Tubes: .....•....
Audio Output Impedance:
Headphone Output: ..•.......
Antenna Input Impedance:
(High Frequency)
6.5 MC to 6.0 MC (Variable), 1650 KC, and 50.75 KC.
AM, CW,
and Single Sideband (SSB).
Less than 1 microvolt for 10-DB signal-to-noise ratio
(30% modulation).
Less than 1/2 microvolt.
5 to 10 microvolts.
Variable in three steps providing 0.5 KC, 2.5 KC, and 5 KC
at 6 DB down.
Better than 300 CPS after warmup.
Better than 2 KC between adjacent 100-KC calibration
points after indexing.
More than 50 DB.
Less than 1/2 microvolt equivalent (within amateur bands).
3/4 watt with less than 10% distortion.
More than 80 DB.
105 volts to 125 volts, 50/60 cycles~
70 watts.
14 (one not supplied), plus four silicon diodes.
3.2 ohms and 500 ohms; rear-mounted screw terminals.
50 ohms to 2000 ohms; panel-mounted jack accepts
standard 1/4-inch plug.
50 ohms to 70 ohms unbalanced; rear-mounted RCA-type
phono jack accepts RCA-type phono plug.
NOTE: Chassis punched to accept Amphenol Type SO-239 coaxial receptacle; for use
from 3.0 MC to 30 MC.
-2-

Low Frequency Input:
Remote Standby Control:
Demensions:
Net Weight:
Shipping Weight:
CATHODE
FOLLOWER
CRYSTAL
OSCILLATOR
(OPTIONAL)
High impedance to first mixer grid; for use with external-
tuned circuit from 85 KC to 3.0 MC. RCA-type phono
jack accepts RCA-type phono plug.
Rear-mounted screw terminals.
7-3/4 inches high, 15 inches wide, and 14-3/4 inches deep.
18-1/2 pounds.
21 pounds (approximately).
CATHODE
FOLLOWER
VARIABLE
FREQUENCY
OSCILLATOR
tVfO)
I
PRODUCT
DETECTOR
BEAT
FREQUENcY
OSCILLATOR
{BFO!
L ________ -1
6DC6
RF Amplifier
Figure 2. Block Diagram of the Receiver.
TUBES AND FUNCTIONS
FIRST
AUDIO
AMPLIFIER
AUDIO
OUTPUT
092-015642
6EA8
Third Mixer, SSB-Switching Crystal
Oscillator
6EA8
12AT7
*6EA8
First Mixer, Cathode Follower
Amateur-Band Crystal Oscillator
Auxiliary Crystal Oscillator
6BA6
6BE6
6BN8
50.75-KC IF Amplifier
Product Detector, BFO
AM Detector, AVe Amplifier, AVC
Rectifier
6BA6
6BE6
6EA8
6DC6
6-MC to 6.5-MC IF Amplifier
Second Mixer
VFO, Cathode Follower
1650-KC IF Amplifier
6GW8
6AU6
First Audio Amplifier, Audio Output
100-KC Crystal-Calibrator
Oscillator
Two each Silicon Noise- Limiter Diodes.
Two each Silicon Power-Supply Diodes.
*Not Supplied
-3-

SECTION III
INSTALLATION
3-1. UNPACKING .
After unpacking the receiver, examine it
for damage which may have occurred in transit.
Should any sign of damage be apparent, file a cla im
immediately with the carrier stating the extent of
damage. Carefully check all shipping labels and
tags for instructions before removing or destroy-
ing them.
IMPORTANT
To remove top cover, turn screws
approximately one quarter turn
counterclockw is e.
Do
not attempt to remove screws .
3-2. LOCATION.
The receiver may be placed in any location
that will permit free air circulation through the
ventilation holes and openings in the cabinet.
Avoid excessively warm locations such as those
near radiators and heating vents. Also avoid direct
blasts of air from circulating fans, etc. Do not
place speakers or any other objects on the cabinet
cover in a manner that will impair natural venti-
lation.
•••• wr.·
3-3. ANTENNAS .
The Model SX-117 uses an input circuit de-
signed for an unbalanced 50-ohm to 70-ohm input.
Any of the popular dipole or beam antennas using
50-ohm to 70-ohm coaxial transmission line will
suffice. It should be remembered, however, that
these antennas will give optimum results over a
limited frequency range only. Generally speaking,
the same rules that apply to transmitting antennas
will hold true for receiving antennas. For further
information on this subject, refer to the "Radio
Amateur's Handbook" or the " A. R. R. L. Antenna
B ook," both published by the American Radio Re-
lay L eague, West Hartford, Connecticut, U.S.A.
IMPORTANT
Some form of lightning protection
should be provided which will comply
with local-code requirements.
3-4. GROUNDS .
All station equipment should be bonded to-
gether with heavy copper wire or braid and con-
nected to a cold -w ater pipe or earth ground. An
external chassis ground terminal is provided on
the rear of the Model SX-117 for this purpose.
o
~e·
• •
CRYSTAL LF ANTENNA ANTENNA
VFO
OUTPUT
FUSE
FI OSCILL ATOR
CHASSIS
GROUND
I AMP
OUTPUT
092-016680
Figure 3. View Showing Rear Chassis Connections .
-4-

3-5. POWER SOURCE.
The SX-117 is designed to operate from a
105-volt to 125-volt, 50/60-cycle, AC power
source. Power consumption is 70 watts.
NOTE
If in doubt about your power source,
contact your local power company
prior to inserting the power cord into
any
power outlet. Plugging the power
cord into the wrong source can cause
extensive damage to the unit.
3-6. SPEAKER.
A terminal strip, marked G, 3.2, and 500, is
provided at the rear of the receiver for connecting
an external speaker or line (see figure 3). Any per-
manent-magnet type speaker with a 3. 2-ohm voice
coil can be used by connecting the two leads from
the speaker voice coil to the terminals marked
3.2 and G. If it is desired to use a speaker with
a voice-coil impedance other than 3.2 ohms, a
matching transformer should be employed to in-
sure optimum performance. The transformer
should be mounted on or near the speaker, should
have a 500-ohm primary impedance, and should
have a secondary impedance to match that of the
speaker voice coil. Connect the primary of the
matching transformer to the terminals marked
500 and G and the secondary to the speaker voice
coil terminals.
SPEAKER
The Hallicrafters Model R47 Speaker is
particularly suited for voice and CW use. Model
R48A
Speaker, with its two-position VOICE- FI-
DELITY switch will give excellent results for all
modes of operation. The leads of either speaker
are to be connected to the terminals marked 3.2
and G.
3-7. HEADPHONES.
The headphone jack marked PHONES is lo-
cated on the front panel and is wired so that the
3.2-ohm speaker output is automatically disabled
when the headphones are inserted. The headphone
impedance is not critical, and any headphones
ranging in impedance from 50 ohms to 2000 ohms
will provide satisfactory performance.
It should be noted that, although insertion of
the headphone plug into the front panel jack will
silence the 3.2-ohm speaker output, the 500-ohm
output will remain in operation at all times.
3-8. REMOTE RECEIVE-STAN DB Y
SWITCHING.
The receiver may be disabled from a re-
mote location by removing the jumper between the
terminals marked STANDBY and G on the rear of
the chassis and then connecting a SPST switch or
relay between these terminals. The switch or re-
lay contacts should be so wired as to close in Re-
ceive and open in Transmit.
The receiver may also be disabled in Trans-
mit by turning the RF GAIN control to 0 (fully
counterclockwise).
~
V.cy
3.2fi
r-
NOTE: DOTTED LINES INSIDE BOXES
DENOTES INTERNAL WIRING
SXIOI- SXIII -SXI15
CONTROL
OUTLET RECEIVER
HT 32B - HT37
HT33B,HT4I, OR
TYPICAL LINEAR AMPL.
FINAL
BIAS -........"
T""'-'- T---'---
SUPPLY '*' '*'
NC~_~----, ' T T
NO --0- _~ ____ I: RF "" RG58IL "" R~ .r---'
I I OUT ~ ~ I, ~
TO GRID
RETURN
OPERATING
BIAS
RESISTOR
STANDBY ANTENNA
~
ANT. OUTPUT
03 50so INPUT 500 0
02Q 70 3.2
':Jl.- - GND-,
~tND'POST l BIAS \,7
RESISTOR
~
NC4---~ ~FOUTPUT
NO---o-:-:' ~r:;~~~-.r:4 NC GND @
GND POST-*- W' ~NO .....,...;.PO..;,.S;;...T-t- ______ .......
ADJUST FOR RG8/U
* LEVEL
~~~~ I
~,-::-i==~it:OK~~=L=-==~====-=J~I===========+~====~--------~--------~R~G5~8~/~U ____ ~J ~~~
l :----,: : ~,:, ANTENNA
rb I I I CHANGE OVER
STAND-BY] iANTENNA I RELAY
TERMINAL 1 'INPUT :
,
TO
CHASSIS
GND
@ I
3.2!l I
SPEAKER4 J
TERMINAL
p~~~- ----------- -------- -NOTE: ALL CHASSIS SHOULD
L- ________ ... *NOTE: USE OF 10K POT FOR BE BONDED TOGETHER
SX-117 MONITERING LEVEL OPTIONAL AND TO EARTH OR
(NOT SUPPLIED l.
WATER PIPE GROUND.
Figure 4. Typical Station Setup.
-5-
TO
117VAC
092-014605

R.f. GAIN
4 5 ,
:,0:'
10
XTAL SELECTOR
1
ha//;craliers
TUNING
.
MODEL SX-117
HGAIN
,',0:'
10
NOTCH fREO.
·"~·o·'
• •
"ot'
BANOSELECTOR
20 21 14
':':u: "::0:"
(j19:9·~L~WWO
PHONES CAL RESET
53 54
fUNCTION SELECTIVITY
AM USB 5.0 1.5 0.5
· ""6·:'0"'(:) 0
BfO
092-015915
Figure 5. Front Panel View of Receiver.
SECTION IV
FUNCTIONS OF OPERATING CONTROLS
4-1. RF GAIN CONTROL.
The RF GAIN control varies the gain of the
RF amplifier and the 50. 75-KC IF amplifier. Max-
imum sensitivity is obtained with the control set
at 10 (fully clockwise). In this position, the tubes
being controlled are operating at maximum gain
with minimum cathode bias. As the control is ro-
tated counterclockwise, the cathode bias is in-
creased with a resultant decrease in gain.
The normal setting of the RF GAIN control
will vary with conditions. When searching for weak
signals, the control should be well advanced. When
copying strong signals under crowded or noisy
conditions, it may be found desirable to reduce
the RF GAIN control setting.
It should be remembered that the S-Meter
calibration will be correct only with the RF GAIN
control fully advanced to 10.
AVC is automatically controlled by the RF
GAIN control so that it is not necessary to dis-
able the AVC circuitry for any mode of reception.
4-2. BAND SElECTOR CONTROL.
The BAND SELECTOR control operates the
bandswitch to place the proper crystal and coils
into the circuit to cover the desired frequency
range.
-6-
It should be noted that several bandswitch
positions are identified by a red dot. When the
switch is rotated to one ofthese positions, the red
dial scale should be used.
In the LF position, the bandswitch discon-
nects the internal-tuned circuits and connects
the first mixer grid to the LF INPUT jack on the
rear panel.
4-3. PRESElECTOR.
The PRESELECTOR control provides pre-
cise tuning of the antenna and mixer coils to give
maximum gain and optimum signal-to-noise ratio.
It also allows coverage of the entire 3.0-MC to
30-MC range (see paragraph 5-7).
NOTE
Care should be exercised when setting
the PRESELECTOR control on the 40-
meter (7.0 MC) or WWV bands. It is
possible to tune the PRESELECTOR
control to the 6.5-MC to 6.0-MC first
IF frequency. The correct setting for
the 40-meter band is indicated by the
block marked 40. The correct setting
for WWV (9.5 MC to 10 Me) will be be-
tween 8 and 9 on the PRESELECTOR
logging scale.

· Under certain conditions where excessive
noise or interference is encountered, it may be
found desirable to slightly detune the PRESEL-
ECTOR control for optimum reception.
4-4. AF (AUDIO) GAIN CONTROL.
The AF GAIN control adjusts the audio out-
put level at the speaker terminals and PHONES
jack. Clockwise rotation increases the signal
voltage applied to the grid of the audio am-
plifier, thus increasing the audio output.
4-5. SELECTIVITY SWITCH.
The SELECTIVITY switch is used to vary
the IF bandwidth to suit receiving conditions.
Three degrees of selectivity are available, rang-
ing from 500 CPS for CW reception under
crowded-band conditions to 5 kilocycles for maxi-
mum fidelity on voice or music-modulated signals
where conditions permit. The three positions are
marked on the front panel and indicate the 50.75-
KC IF bandwidth at the 6-DB points. See figure
6 for typical IF selectivity curves.
The recommended positions for the various
modes of operation are as follows:
CW
0.5 KC or 2.5 KC
SSB 2.5 KC
AM 2.5 KC or 5.0 KC
4-6. FUNCTION SWITCH.
The FUNCTION switch is afour-positionro-
tary switch performing the following functions:
Position
Function
OFF. . •. disconnects the 117-volt, 60-
cycle, AC power.
AM ..... a. Connects the 117-volt, 60-
cycle, AC power.
b. Disables the BFa.
c. Connects audio to the enve-
lope detector.
d. Selects fast-attack, fast-re-
lease AVC.
e.
Connects the 1700- KC side-
band-switching crystal.
USB ..... a. Connects audio to the product
detector.
b. Energizes the BFa.
-7-
z
o
~
6
30
~ 40
w
I-
!i
III
a
60
80
KC OFF RESONANCE
10 8 6 4 2 + 0 - 2 4 6 8 10
i(
,
I ;
~
j I
\\
J ; \
I 1! ,
I:
I
I;
i
\ I
1\
I
; I
1\ \
I
I \
I I ,
; I ',
!
1\
! I \
I \
1\
5 2.5 \\
KC
KC
! f ;
I ! 1\ \
II
; \
.5
\ 1\
I
KC
1 I
\\
J " \
I I \ \
I I \ \
o
092-016760
Figure 6. IF Selectivity Curves.
c. Selects fast-attack, slow-
release AVC.
d.
Connects the 1700-KC side-
band-switching crystal.
LSB . . .. a. Connects audio to the pro-
duct detector.
b. Energizes the BFa.
c. Se I e c t s fast-attack, slow-
release AVC.
d.
Connects 1600- KC sideband-
switching crystal.

To illustrate how selectable-sideband re-
ception is accomplished, a numerical example is
given. Consider an incoming signal at 7000 KC,
modulated 1 KC. Since modulation of a carrier
causes the generation of sideband frequencies
numerically equal to the carrier frequency plus
or minus the modulation frequency, the incoming
signal consists of ,the carrier at 7000 KC, a
lower sideband at 6999 KC, and an upper side-
band at 7001 KC. See figure 7 A.
The incoming signal is first heterodyned
with the output of the first conversion oscillator
in the first mixer. The first conversion oscillator
operates at a frequency higher than the incoming
signal by an amount equal to the first IF fre-
quency of 6.500 MC (variable IF). As a result of
this, three new lower frequencies are produced
in the output of the first mixer: the carrier at
6.500 MC, the lower sideband at 6.501MC, and
the upper sideband at 6.499 MC. These signals
are amplified by the 6.500-MC to 6.000-MC IF
stage and then heterodyned with the output of
the VFO (4.85 MC to 4.35 MC) in the second
mixer. Three new lower frequencies are again
produced in the output of this mixer stage: a
center frequency of 1650 KC, a lower sideband
of 1651 KC, and an upper sideband of 1649 KC.
These signals are amplified by the 1650-KC IF
amplifier and fed to the third mixer, where they
are heterodyned with the output of either the
1600-KC (lower sideband) or the 1700-KC (upper
sideband)
crystal-controlled third conversion os-
cillator. When the FUNCTION switch is placed
in the LSB position, three new lower frequencies
S,4NC TRAP
INCOMING SIGNAL
NOTE:
LSB-LOWER SIDEBAND
USB-UPPER SIDEBAND
NOT TO SCALE. ILLUSTRATION ONLY
OUTPUT OF I ST MIXER
are produced: the carrier frequency at 50 KC,
the lower sideband at 51 KC, and the upper
sideband at 49 KC. By referring to figure 7D,
it can be seen that the lower sideband falls
within the IF passband and the upper sideband is
rejected. When the FUNCTION switch is placed
in USB position, the carrier frequency remains at
50 KC but the sidebands are reversed in the heter-
odyning process. The upper sideband will now be
51 KC and falls within the IF passband, while the
lower sideband will appear at 49 KC and be
rejected.
4-7. NOTCH FREQ (FREQUENCY) CONTROL.
The NOTCH FREQcontrol varies the notch
frequency within the 50.75-KC IF passband and is
very useful in attenuating an undesirable hetero-
dyne. Since the notch width is quite narrow, it is
essentially a single-frequency device and cannot
attenuate more than one heterodyne if the hetero-
dynes are separated in frequency by more than
500 CPS.
The NOTCH FREQ control is very effective
when using exalted carrier reception (AM with
BFO on). The notch control is adjusted to approxi-
mately 50 KC so that the incoming signal carrier
is removed. This will remove the low-frequency
heterodyne which may be heard if the receiver is
not tuned to exactly zero beat with the incoming
signal. The AM signal under these conditions will
tune similar to double-sideband suppressed car-
rier and may be received in the USB (upper-
sideband) or the LSB (lower-sideband) position.
OUTPUT OF 2ND MIXER 3RD CONV, OSCILLATOR
FREQ,= 1600KC
3RD CONV, OSCILLATOR
FREO,=1700KC
OUTPUT OF 3RD MIXER
092-01581S
Figure 7. Selectable-Sideband Response Curves.
-8-

""
C>
>=
c
~
:z
...
.....
.....
..,
CD
co
If -KC
---.t t-- NOTCH fREQUENCY RANGE
58 54 50 46 42
3KC CURVE r-~
WITHOUT NOTCH --: '
6r-------------~_,~---J~----~--~
20
::E
~
~
~
::E
co
c
0
40
..,
60r----7----------+-------~----~--~
80~----------------------------~--~
092-203878
Figure 8. IF Selectivity with Notch.
The notch calibration is quite accurate and
may be used as a guide in determining where the
NOTCH FREQ control should be set to attenuate
an interfering signal, provided the BFO fre-
quency is set as described under BFO operation.
For example, if the heterodyne is approximately
1000 CPS, the null point would be near 51 KC. If
the heterodyne is 2000 CPS, the null point would
be near 52 KC, etc.
4-8. BFa CONTR OL.
The BFO control is a front-panel adjust-
ment which allows the beat frequency oscillator
to be set at exactly 50 KC.
NOTE
The BFO control should not be used
for tuning purposes as the BFO fre-
quency must be maintained if optimum
performance is to be obtained.
The correct setting will be near the point
where the knob and panel marks coincide. The
exact point may be found by placing the FUNCTION
switch in USB, the SELECTIVITY control at 5.0
KC, and tuning in a CW signal or crystal calibrator
to near zero beat. Switch the FUNCTION control to
-9-
LSB. The beat note should not change frequency.
If it does, adjust the BFO control until the beat
note frequency remains the same in the USB or
LSB position. The control should always be at
this point.
4-9. TUNING CONTROL.
The TUNING control is used to vary the fre-
quency of the VFO to allow reception of the de-
sired signal. It also rotates the dial past a station-
ary pointer to indicate the frequency in kilocycles.
It should be noted that two scales appear on
the dial: 0 to 500 KC and 500 KC to 1000 KC. If
the band being tuned starts at the even megacycle,
(e.g., 7.0), the frequency is read on the 0 to 500-
KC scale; ifthe band starts on 0.5 megacycle (e.g.,
3.5), the frequency is read on the 500-KC to 1000-
KC scale.
If the BAND SELECTOR is set opposite ared
dot, the red dial scale should be used to indicate
the correct frequency.
The skirt on the TUNING knob is divided
into 15 segments. Each division will represent
approximately one kilocycle of frequency change.
4-10. CAL RESET CONTROL.
The CAL RESET control operates a variable
trimmer to allow the VFO calibration to be set
exactly to frequency at any check point.
If the dial calibration does not agree with the
frequency of a known signal, such as a crystal
calibrator, the CAL RESET control should be
adjusted as necessary to correct the calibration
error.
4-11. OFF-NL-CAL SWITCH.
The OFF-NL-CAL control is a three-posi-
tion rotary switch performing the following func-
tions:
1. OFF - In this position, both the noise
limiter and 100-KC crystal calibrator
circuits are disabled.
2. NL -In this position, the noise limiter
is placed in operation (see paragraph
5-6).

3. CAL - In this position, the 100-KC
crystal calibrator is placed in oper-
ation to provide marker signals at
every 100-KC point on the dial.
NOTE
The 100-KC crystal calibrator should
not be left in the ON position after
dial calibration is completed. Under
certain conditions it can cause spur-
ious responses to be developed.
4-12. XTAL SElECTOR SWITCH.
The XTAL SELECTOR switch is a five-
position rotary switch performing the following
functions:
1. NORMAL -In the NORMAL position,
plate voltage is removed from the
auxiliary crystal oscillator (6EA8
2.
3.
not supplied) and the receiver will
operate on the ranges indicated by the
BAND SELECTOR knob.
1 AND 2 - Positions 1 and 2 of the
XT AL SELECTOR switch will disable
the 12AT7 fir st crystal oscillator,
apply voltage to the 6EA8 auxiliary os-
cillator, and select crystals inserted
in auxiliary crystal sockets 1 or 2.
Use only type CR-18/U crystals whose
frequencies fall between 6.5 MC and
20.00 MC (inclusive) in these sockets
(see paragraph 5-7).
3 AND 4 - Positions 3 and 4 also dis-
able the 12AT7 first crystal oscil-
lator, apply plate voltage to the 6EA8
auxiliary oscillator, and select cry-
stals inserted in auxiliary crystal
sockets 3 and 4. Use only type CR-
23/U crystals whose frequencies fall
between 20.5 MC and 34.0 MC (inclu-
sive) in these sockets (see paragraph
5-7).
SECTION V
OPERATION
5 -1.
SINGLE-SIDEBAND RECEPTION.
Set the front panel controls as outlined
below.
RF GAIN. . . . . • .. Usually at 10 (maybe
reduced as noise and
QRM dictate).
NOTE
S-Meter reading will be correct only
with the RF GAIN control set at 10.
BAND SELECTOR •. To desired band.
AUDIO GAIN . . • .. Approximately 2.
SELECTIVITY .... 2.5 KC.
FUNCTION . . . . .. Usually LSB for 80
and 40 meters and
USB for 20, 15and10
meters.
BFO . . . . . . . . . .. Center or 0 position
(do not use BFO con-
trol for tuning pur-
poses).
NOTCH ......... OFF
PRESELECTOR . .. Peaked for maximum
signal.
-10-
XTAL CAL
OFF
NL (Noise Limiter). Use as noise condi-
tions dictate.
TUNING . . . . . . .. As desired.
Slowly adjust the TUNING control until the
voice modulation sounds natural. Peak the PRE-
SELECTOR for maximum S-Meter indication and
adjust the AUDIO GAIN control as desired. If an
undesirable heterodyne appears, ad jus t the
NOTCH control for maximum attenuation.
It should be remembered that an SSB signal
will convey intelligence only when the correct
sideband position has been selected on the FUNC-
TION switch. If the signal does not tune in pro-
perly, change the FUNCTION switch to the other
SSB position and retune.
The RF GAIN control should normally be
set at 10 (maximum sensitivity). Under adverse
conditions, it may be found advantageous to reduc e
the RF GAIN to improve reception. It should be
remembered that, as the RF GAIN is reduced, the
AVC will be reduced. Also, correct S-Meter
readings will be indicated only with the RF GAIN
at 10.

5-2. CW RECEPTION.
Set all controls as described under single-
sideband reception except for the SELECTIVITY
and noise limiter controls.
The SELECTIVITY control will usually be
in the 0.5 KC position for CWo
The NL (noise limiter) can be used to ad-
vantage at all times in CW reception and will be
very effective in reducing impulse noise, key
clicks, etc.
The NOTCH control should be used as
necessary to attenuate interfering signals and
heterodynes.
The RF GAIN control should be adjusted
as conditions dictate for best reception.
NOTE
Do not use the BFO control for tuning
purposes.
5-3. AM RECEPTION.
Set all controls as described under single-
sideband reception except for the FUNCTION con-
trol. The FUNCTION control should be placed in
the AM position.
The SELECTIVITY control maybeplacedin
the 5.0-KC position for improved fidelity where
band conditions permit.
The RF GAIN control will normally be set
at 10 for AM reception except on extremely strong
local signals.
If the NL (noise limiter) is used on AM,
distortion can be reduced by reducing the RF
GAIN control setting to the lowest practical
level.
The NOTCH control should be used as nec-
essary for removing undesirable heterodynes.
5-4. EXALTED CARRIER AM RECEPTION.
In short-wave reception, it frequently hap-
pens that transmission conditions are different
for waves of slightly different frequencies. As a
result, in the case of voice modulated transmis-
sions, AM particularly, which involve sideband
frequencies differing slightly from the carrier
frequency, the carrier and sideband components
may not be received in the same relative ampli-
tudes and phases that were present at the trans-
mitter. This effect, known as selective fading,
causes severe distortion of the signal.
-11-
This type of distortion can be reduced con-
siderably by utilizing the selectable-sideband
feature of the Model SX-117 receiver operating in
an exalted carrier mode (i. e., the transmitted car-
rier is positioned out of the receiver's IF pass-
band along with one sideband, producing a sup-
pressed carrier single-sideband signal). The car-
rier is subsequently reinserted by the receiver's
BFO and the signal is detected in the same manner
as a single-sideband signal.
All controls should be set as described un-
der single-sideband reception. Place the FUNC-
TION switch in the SSB position that gives best
reception. In addition, the NOTCH control should
be adjusted to the carrier frequency (approxi-
mately 50 KC) to null out the incoming signal
carrier.
If noise conditions warrant, the noise limiter
should be used.
5-5. USE AND ADJUSTMENT OF S-METER.
The S-Meter provides a visual means of
determining whether or not the receiver is
properly tuned, as well as providing an indication
of the signal strength. The S-Meter is calibrated
in S-units to 9 and in decibels to 70 DB above S9.
The meter calibration will be correct only when
the RF GAIN control is set at 10 (fully clockwise).
S9 represents a 50-microvolt signal at the
antenna input. Each S-unit represents approxi-
mately 6 DB change in signal strength.
For accurate readings, the meter zero
should be checked periodically. To adjust the
electrical zero on the meter, turn the RF GAIN
control to 0 (fully counterclockwise). Rotate the
Meter Zero control as necessary so that the meter
pointer is aligned with the last calibration mark on
the left side of the meter scale.
IMPORTANT
To remove top cover, turn screws
a p pro x i mat ely one quarter turn
counterclockwise.
Do not attempt to remove screws.
The Meter Zero control may be found di-
rectly under the rear of the meter housing.
CAUTION
Do not disturb the adjustment of the
Notch Depth or Factory Gain controls.
5-6. USE OF NOISE LIMITER (NL).
The noise limiter is an IF-type limiter and
is very effective in reducing impulse-type noise
particularily on SSB and CWo It will be found use-
ful on AM as well. Recommended use is as fol-
ows:

For CW Operation:
The noise limiter should be on at all
times for elimination of impulse noise
and key clicks.
For SSB Operation:
Use the noise limiter as noise condi-
tions dictate.
For AM Operation:
Use the noise limiter as noise condi-
tions dictate. It will be noticed that
the noise limiter will introduce consi-
derable distortion on a fully modu-
lated AM Signal. Distortion may be
reduced by decreasing the RF GAIN
control setting.
Signal
Crystal Crystal
Frequency Frequency
Type
85 KC to 500 KC
6.5 MC
CR-18/U
500 KC to 1.0 MC 7.0 MC CR-18/U
1.0 MC to 1.5 MC 7.5 MC CR-18/U
1.5 MC to 2.0 MC 8.0 MC
CR-18/U
2.0 MC to 2.5 MC 8.5 MC CR-18/U
2.5 MC to 3.0 Me 9.0 MC CR-18/U
3.0 MC to 3.5 MC 9.5 MC CR-18/U
3.5 MC to 4.0 MC -- --
4.0 MC to 4.5 MC 10.5 MC CR-18/U
4.5 MC to 5.0 MC 11.0 MC CR-18/U
5.0 MC to 5.5 MC 11.5 MC CR-18/U
7.0 MC to 7.5 MC
-- --
7.5 MC to 8.0 MC
14.0 MC
CR-18/U
8.0 MC to 8.5 MC 14.5 MC CR-18/U
8.5 MC to 9.0 MC
15.0 MC
CR-18/U
9.0 MC to 9.5 MC 15.5 MC CR-18/U
9.5 MC to 10 MC
--
--
10 MC to 10.5 MC 16.5 MC
CR-18/U
10.5 MC to 11 MC
17.0 MC CR-18/U
11 MC to 11.5 MC 17.5 MC
CR-18/U
11.5 MC to 12 MC 18.0 MC
CR-18/U
12 MC to 12.5 MC 18.5 MC
CR-18/U
5-7. GENERAL COVERAGE OPERATION.
The Model SX-117 Receiver may be used
on most frequencies from 85 KC to 30.0 MC by
inserting the correct heterodyne crystals into
the auxiliary oscillator sockets. The frequencies,
whose use is not recommended, are 1600 KC,
1650 KC, 1700 KC and the 5.5-MC to 7.0-MC
range.
In the low frequency range (i. e., 85 KC to
3.0 MC), an external-tuned circuit (Model HA-I0)
should be connected between the antenna and the
LF INPUT jack (see figure 19).
NOTE
In primary service areas of high-
power broadcast stations, good re-
sults can be obtained by connecting
an antenna directly to the LF INPUT
jack.
The following chart contains the informa-
tion needed to cover the 85-KC to 30-MC range:
Crystal
Selector Preselector
Dial Band
& Socket
Calibration
Scale
Selector
1 or 2
Use
Black LF
1 or 2
Red LF
1 or 2 Model
Black LF
1 or 2
Red LF
1 or 2 HA-I0
Black LF
1 or 2 Red LF
1 or 2 1
Black 3.5
Normal
§]
Red 3.5
1 or 2 7 Black 3.5
1 or 2 2 Red 7.0
1 or 2 3
Black
7.0
Normal
@:2]
Black 7.0
1 or 2 7 Red 7.0
1 or 2 7-1/2
Black 7.0
1 or 2 8 Red 7.0
1 or 2 8-1/2
Black
7.0
Normal 9
Red 7.0
1 or 2
9-1/2
Black
7.0
1 or 2
4-1/2
Red
14
1 or 2 5
Black
14
1 or 2
5-1/2
Red
14
1 or 2 6 Black
14
-12-

Crystal
Signal
Crystal Crystal
Selector
Preselector
Dial
Band
Frequency
Frequency
Type
& Socket
Calibration
Scale
Selector
-f------- 1---
12.5 MC to 13 MC
19.0 MC
CR-18/U
1 or 2 6-1/2
Red 14
13 MC to 13.5 MC
19.5 MC
CR-18/U
1 or 2 7
Black
14
13.5 MC to 14 MC 20.0 MC
CR-18/U
1 or 2 7 Red 14
14 MC to 14.5 MC -- --
Normal
~
Black
14
14.5 MC to 15 MC 21.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4
7-1/2
Red
14
15 MC to 15.5 MC 21.5 MC
CR-23/U
e or 4 7-1/2
Black
14
15.5 MC to 16 MC 22.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 8
Red
14
16 MC to 16.5 MC 22.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 8
Black 14
16.5 MC to 17 MC 23.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 8-1/2
Red
14
17M C to 17.5 MC 23.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 8-1/2
Black
14
17.5 MC to 18 MC 24.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 9
Red
14
18 MC to 18.5 MC 24.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 7
Black
21
18.5 MC to 19 MC 25.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 7
Red
21
19 MC to 19.5 MC 25.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4
7-1/2
Black
21
19.5 MC to 20 MC 26.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 7-1/2
Red
21
20 MC to 20.5 MC 26.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 8
Black
21
20.5 MC to 21 MC 27.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 8
Red
21
21 MC to 21.5 MC -- --
Normal
~
Black
21
21.5 MC to 22 MC 28.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 8-1/2
Red
21
22 MC to 22.5 MC 28.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4
8-1/2
Black
21
22.5 MC to 23 MC 29.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 9
Red
21
23 MC to 23.5 MC 29.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 9
Black
21
23.5 MC to 24 MC
30.0 MC CR-23/U
3 or 4
9-1/2
Red
21
24 MC to 24.5 MC 30.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4
9-1/2
Black
21
24.5 MC to 25 MC 31.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 7-1/2
Red 28.0
25 MC to 25.5 MC 31.5 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 8
Black 28.0
25.5 MC to 26 MC
32.0 MC CR-23/U
3 or 4 8
Red 28.0
26 MC to 26.5 MC 32.5 MC CR-23/U
3 or 4
8-1/2
Black 28.0
26.5 MC to 27 MC
33.0 MC CR-23/U
3 or 4
8-1/2
Red 28.0
27 MC to 27.5 MC
33.5 MC CR-23/U
3 or 4 9
Black
28.0
27.5 MC to 28 MC
34.0 MC
CR-23/U
3 or 4 9 Red 28.0
28 MC to 28.5 MC
--
--
Normal
[!Q]
Black 28.0
28.5 MC to 29 MC
--
--
Normal
[Q]
Red 28.5
29 MC to 29.5 MC --
--
Normal
[Q]
Black 29.0
29.5 MC to 30 MC --
--
Normal
[!Q]
Red
29.5
-13-

Crystals for General Coverage Operation
should be ordered through an authorized Halli-
crafters Dealer, allowing reasonable time for
delivery. Because of the large quantity of crystal
required to satisfy varied user requirements,
neither The Hallicrafters Company nor its
dealers will normally stock crystals for general
coverage service.
Substitution of crystal types other than
specified should be avoided. Proper operation
and frequency correlation is dependentonprecise
characteristics of the CR-18/U and CR-23/U
types as listed.
NOTE
Those crystals which are shipped with
the Model SX-117 Receiver and the ad-
ditional 10-meter and WWV crystals
are available at The Hallicrafters
Company. See the Service Repair
Parts List for part numbers of these
crystals.
5-8. USE· OF VFO AS CRYSTAL-LOCKED
OSCILLATOR.
The VFO (variable frequency oscillator)
may be used as a crystal-controlled oscillator
for fixed-frequency operation.
This may be accomplished as follows:
1.
Insert a 4.5-MCtypeCR-18/Ucrystal
in the VFO crystal socket, SOL
2. Add 6.15 megacycles (IF frequency) to
the desired signal frequency. This will
determine the heterodyning crystal
frequency.
3.
4.
5.
6.
If the heterodyning crystal frequency
is 20 MC or less, specify type CR-
18/U and insert in auxiliary oscillator
crystal socket 1 or 2.
If the heterodyning crystal frequency
is more than 20 MC, specify type
CR-23/U and insert in auxiliary os-
cillator crystal socket 3 or 4.
The PRESELECTOR calibration and
BAND
SELECTOR setting may be de-
termined from the general-coverage
chart (paragraph 5-7).
The VFO dial should be set at approx-
imately 375. Slight frequency warping
may be achieved by moving the dial
slightly from this point.
Example 1 - The desired signal frequency is
12.950 MC; the heterodyning crystal frequency is
12.950 MC + 6.15 MC =19.100 MC. From the gen-
eral-coverage chart, it can be determined that,
for a signal frequency of 12.950 MC, the PRE-
SELECTOR should be set at 6 1/2 and the BAND
SELECTOR should be at 14. The correct crystal
would be a 19.100-MC type CR-18/U crystal in-
serted in either crystal socket 1 or 2.
Example 2 - The desired signal frequency is
18.4 MC; the heterodyning crystal frequency is
18.4 MC + 6.15 MC = 24.55MC. From the general
coverage chart, it can be determined that, for a
signal frequency of 18.4 MC, the PRESELECTOR
should be set at 7 and the BAND SELECTOR at
21. The correct crystal would be a 24.55-MC
type CR-23/U crystal inserted in either crystal
socket 3 or 4.
SECTION VI
ALIGNMENT
6-1. GENERAL.
Alignment should not be attempted until all
other possible causes of faulty operation have been
exhausted.
NOTE
Do not make any adjustments unless
the operation of this receiver is fully
understood and adequate test equip-
ment is available.
6-2. TEST EQUIPMENT REQUIRED.
1. Signal generator with 50-KC to 30-MC
coverage, a calibrated output level meter, and a
50-ohm termination.
-14-
2.
Vacuum tube voltmeter (VTVM).
3. Output
meter (or AC scale of VTVM).
If a VTVM is used, connect it to terminals 500 and
G and terminate the outputwith a 500-ohm, 2-watt,
dummy load.
4.
9.5-MC and 18-MC type CR-18/U cry-
stals.
5. Alignment tool, such as GENERAL
CEMENT #8606, and a
small screwdriver.
6-3. INITIAL CONTROL SETTINGS.
BAND SELECTOR. As indicated in chart.
AUDIO AND RF.. 10 (maximum).
GAIN

ANTENNA
MIXER
V3
12AT7
:n
<Q
YI
c:
THROUGH
.,
Y9
~
:0
TI
-4
V4
0
6BA6
"0
$
T2
~
.!...
~
Y301
v.
0
-.
CI5A,B
~
~
C301
"
~
VI4
< 6AU6
~
.,
CI5C,D
Ii
* VI3
:r
Q 6EAS
VI
VI
AUXILIARY
VI
OSC . TUBE
NOTE :
* NOT SUPPLIED
L10B VI V2 LIIB L13B L12B
L7 L2 L6 L5 L10A 6DC6 6EAS TIO Ll4 LilA L13A L12A CII7
CI5E,F 501
R21 METER ZERO
R55 NOTCH DEPTH
T6
V9
6BA6
T5
T7
va
6EAS
T8
YIO,YII
T4
V7
6DC6
VII
68E6
VIO
6BN8
VI2
6GWS
T3
V5
68E6
T9
RI9
FACTORY
GAIN
092-016681

SELECTIVITY ..•• As indicated in chart.
FUNCTION •.•••• AM
TUNING. • • • • • • • As indicated on chart.
NOTCH •......• OFF.
XT AL CAL-NL .•• OFF.
6-4. ALIGNMENT PROCEDURE.
Signal Generator Generator
step Connections Frequency
1 High side directly 50.75 KC un-
to Pin 2 of V8
mod. (critical)
Band
BFO .•.••••.•. 0 (center point).
IMPORTANT
To remove top cover, turn screws
approximately one quarter turn coun-
terclockwise.
Do not attempt to remove screws.
Output
Connections
Selectivity
80 Meters
VTVM DC probe
0.5 KC
to Pin 6 of VI0
Adjust top
cores of T5, T6,
T7, and T8
for maximum indication. Reduce generator output as
necessary to maintain approximately a I-volt reading on VTVM. (Use screwdriver.)
2 High Side directly 1650 KC, 400 80
Meters
Output meter
5.0 KC
to Pin 7 of V5
cycles, 30%
across appro-
mod.
priate speaker
output terminals
Slowly tune generators through 1650 KC to determine center of IF passband. Set generator at
center of IF passband and adjust generator output to maintain approximately a 1/2-watt receiver output.
Adjust top and
bottom cores of T3 and T4 for maximum receiver output.
3 High
side directly
6.050 MC, 400 80
Meters
Output meter 5.0 KC
to Pin 2 of V2
cycles, 30%
across appro-
mod.
priate speaker
output terminals
Adjust receiver tuning until a signal
is
heard at approximately 3.95 MC. Adjust top
cores of Tl
and T2 for maximum receiver output.
4 High
side directly
6.45 MC mod. 80 Meters Output meter 5.0 KC
to Pin 2 of V2
across appro-
priate speaker
output terminals
Adjust receiver tuning until a signal is heard at approximately 3.55 MC. Adjust middle and rear
trimmers C15B and C15D for maximum receiver output. Repeat core and trimmer adjustments until
no further increase in output is noted.
6-5. ADJUSTMENT OF CRYSTAL-
CONTROLLED FIRST CONVERSION
OSCILLATOR.
All of the coil forms in this group, except
the WWV coil, have two separate coils and two -16-
separate adjustments (i.e., 80 M and 10 M-l,
40 M and 10 M-2, etc). In all cases, the top core
will be the low frequency adjustment andthe 10 M
adjustment will be the bottom core (see figure
10). All adjustments may be made from the top or
bottom of the chassis when using an alignment
tool such as General Cement's No. 8606.

80M
20M
10-1
IONl-4
0
40Nl
0
IOM-2
0 15M
WWV IONl-3
0 0
O'I-Ollen
Figure 10. Crystal Oscillator Coil Locations.'
Connect a VTVM (set to read negative DC
voltage on 10-volt scale) at point where R30 (1
megohm) connects to terminal strip near V2.
Starting with 80 M, adjust each core in order of
increasing frequency, for maximum voltage in-
dication as the BAND SELECTOR switch is ad-
vanced through the various ranges.
NOTE
After all adjustments have been made,
it is permissible to warp the crystal
frequency by rotating the appropriate
core slightly to allow more accurate
band-to-band calibration, consistent
with positive oscillator start as the
BAND SELECTOR is rotated through
each range.
6-6. PRESELECTOR ALIGNMENT. '
To align the PRESELECTOR, 9.5-MC and
18.0-MC type CR-18/U crystals will be required.
Insert the 9.5-MC crystal in Auxiliary Oscillator
socket No. 1 and the 18-MC crystal in Auxiliary
Oscillator socket No.2.
Step 1
a.
Set generator frequency to 3.0 MC.
b. Set
receiver TUNING dial to O.
c. Set BAND SELECTOR to 3.5.
d. Set
PRESELECTOR to 0 (Maximum
capacity).
e. Set XTAL SELECTOR to 1.
f.
Connect generator to antenna input.
Adjust L5 (antenna coil) and L6 (mixer coil)
for maximum receiver output. -17-
Step 2
a. Set
generator frequency to 11.5 MC.
b.
Leave receiver TUNING dial at O.
c. Set BAND SELECTOR to 7.0.
d.
Set PRESELECTOR to 10 (Minimum
capacity).
e. Set XT AL SELECTOR to 2.
Adjust trimmers C3B and C3Dfor maximum
receiver output.
Repeat steps 1 and 2 until no further in-
crease in output is noted.
Step 3
a.
b.
c.
d.
Set generator to 28.0 MC.
Leave TUNING dial at O.
Set PRESELECTOR pointer to right
edge of 10 M calibration block.
Set BAND SELECTOR to 28.0 MC.
e. Set
XTAL SELECTOR to normal.
Adjust L2 and L7 (antenna and mixer shunt
coils) for maximum receiver output.
6-7. ALIGNMENT OF IF TRAP.
Controls should be set as follows:
RF GAIN ......• 10
AUDIO GAIN
•...• 10
FUNCTION
..•..• AM
NOTCH .•....•. OFF
XT AL CAL-NL ... OFF
XTAL SELECTOR. Normal
BAND SELECTOR . 7.0
TUNING
••..... 7.1 MC
PRESELECTOR .•. Peak on 7.1-MC sig-
nal.
a. Connect generator to antenna input.
b.
Set generator frequency to 6.4 MC
and
increase output level approximately 50 DB
above 1
microvolt.

C38 XV6 XV4 XV5
R55 NOTCH DEPTH
::!'!
L22 BFO
IQ
c:
XVI3
..,
~
VFO COIL LI6
:-
T3 1650 KC
IF
~
0
-
-
XVI2
0
3
XVIO
<:
!..
~.
SIC
00
~
I
0
XV3
XVII
......
S5
;10
~
,.,
SID
~
S4A
<
~
..,
SIB
XV8
(')
::r
Q
'"
C3C
'"
S4B
~.
C3A
XV9
LlA,B SIA
XVI XV2 XV? CI07 T4 1650 KC IF
6.4MC TRAP
092-016682