A user review of the ICOM IC-PW1
By Matt Erickson KK5DR, (with contributions and technical editing by Adam Farson VA7OJ/AB4OJ)
July 04' Serial # 0015xx Introduction The ICOM IC-PW1 is the single most expensive amplifier I have ever purchased. It is also the first "new" amplifier I have ever bought, but not the first solid-state amplifier I have had. I began writing this review, even before I received the unit. I have the PDF versions of both the user and service manuals, which I studied intensely. That allowed me to start with many points of importance, which did not require possession of the actual unit. My reasons for buying the IC-PW1 are as follows: (1) I wanted a fully automatic band-switching solid-state HF amplifier that would interface easy with my ICOM radios.
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (1 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
(2) I prefer high voltage power MOSFET power devices, since they have superior IMD, and high efficiency, that low voltage bipolar devices can never come close to. (3) I wanted a full kilowatt output on all the HF bands, and 6 meters was a plus in the PW1. (4) It is long overdue that I enter the 21st century, and get an amplifier that does not use vacuum tubes. The "BIG" black cube. Packed shipping weight, including the shipping carton, is an impressive 76 lbs. The unit itself weighs in at 56 lbs. (25kg). Some readers may recall the IC-PW1s predecessor, the IC-4KL, which weighed a backbreaking 80 lbs. Even though the 4KL had a switching power supply, it was still hefty; imagine if it had a transformer type linear PSU, it might have weighed in at over 100 Lbs. That is massive for a solid-state amplifier, but then the PSU is always the heavy part of these amps. Improvements have been made in the years since the 4KL. The IC-PW1 is big, black, and beautiful. A cube-shaped box that looks like it means business. My new unit was supplied with plastic caps for the output antenna ports, which are Teflon-insulated SO-239's, four of them. There are two SO-239 connectors for RF input. I only use one ICOM exciter with the amp, so I removed the cap from ant port 1 and placed it on input port #2. There are large springy rubber feet under the unit. One is in the center of the bottom and one on each corner. The air intake for the PSU has a foam filter on the inside of the cover to keep dust from filling the PSU. It's too bad that foam was not installed for the PA section air intake. I could see right away why the amp weighs so much for its size the chassis is nearly all steel. It's very stout! Lots of shielding inside, with the outer cover providing exterior shielding. What looks like a bunch of vented steel boxes stacked inside the PW1, are the various modules such as the main PSU (Power Supply Unit), filter unit (LPF), main board unit (CPU), ATU, PA unit. There are small areas for airflow in and around these stacks of boxes. There is not a whole lot of wasted space inside the PW1. A very nice "cube". As can be read in the sales brochure, the dimensions are as follows: 13-25/32nds in. Wide (350mm) x 10-7/16ths in Tall (265mm) x 14-3/4 in Deep (375mm). Some dimensions that are not in any book, and that includes the users manual, are:
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (2 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
Main AC power cable (12Ga.-3), 9ft + a few inches long. Accessory cable (OPC-104B) About 9.5ft. Coax cable (OPC-125B) About 9ft. Separation cable (OPC-730) From strain-relief to strain-relief, about 9ft. Remote control cable to CI-V (OPC-718) About 9.75ft. Other items that come with the unit from the factory are: Remote controller feet (to go on the remote head when separation is desired). Grounding lug (grounding connection, duh). Dummy panel screws (for separation, duh). Dummy panel (duh). Ferrite cores (for RFI filtering of AC power cable). Cable "tie-wraps" (to hold the ferrite cores in place). My impression of the interior of the PW1 is that it is nicely designed, with lots of beefy components. The printed circuit boards (PCB) are like all the ICOM boards, G-10 epoxyglass, with fully doped surfaces. They glitter like green emerald jewels. The interior is exquisite. Installation When I received the unit, I did an inspection of the packed parts, checking to make sure that all of them were there, and that there was no shipping damage to the amp or parts. Everything was there, and in perfect condition. One of the first things I did next was to perform the 10/12 meter enabling mod. (more detail in a later section). The whole modification took about 15 minutes start to finish. The hardest part was finding the SMT (Surface Mount Technology) diode for removal. It is about the size of a grain of salt, it takes a set of sharp pointed tweezers, a pencil tipped soldering pen, and my magnifying eye visor, as well as a strong light to shine on the board. Just touching the tip of the soldering pen to the diode solder pads released it. After the mod was done, I inspected the internal parts of the unit, checking connectors & wire connections for looseness. I installed the ferrite cores on the AC cable, which the manual calls for, but I took this RFI filtering measure even further, by doubling the number of cores on the cable. I also installed ferrite cores on each of the other lines too. One core on each end of the accessory cable, and remote (CI-V) cable. All these cores should keep RFI from getting into or out of the amp or exciter. Pay attention to the right and left sides of the unit, since these are the areas where air is drawn in for cooling, do not place the unit less than a few inches away from any other gear. It is unwise to "stack" any gear on top of the unit either. A good "rule of thumb" is

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (3 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
to give the unit a three- inch "buffer" zone on top and sides, and at least six inches or more in the rear. The unit is shipped with only one set of cables, so only one ICOM exciter can be connected at that time. The user would need to buy another set of cables to connect a second exciter. If the user wanted, a set of cables could be built for this purpose. AC wiring AC wiring of the IC-PW1 is very easy. There are no taps to change, the cabinet need not be opened, and the voltage is automatically selected by the unit. There is none of the hassles of older amplifier AC wiring. All the user needs to do is install the proper plug on the end of the three-wire cable. Be sure to use no less than a 15A plug for the EURO version, and a 20A+ plug for the USA version. This reduces the voltage drop at the plug point. The green wire is grounded to the house wiring system. There is a separate chassis ground on the back of the main-unit, which is for RFI and safety grounding, be sure to connect this to your station grounding system. The black & white wires are connected to the AC mains. Be sure a 20A circuit breaker is used in the house breaker-box for this amplifier circuit. It is preferable that the amp be alone on this circuit, again to reduce voltage drop. If the user connects the unit to a 120Vac circuit, the amp will automatically reduce its maximum power output to 500 watts. The unit can be used on a three-phase 230Vac system by connecting any two wires to the AC lines; the third wire of the AC line is left unused. A single-phase 200-240Vac system is ideal for the IC-PW1. The two wires connect to the black & white wires, and the amp will put out a full 1kW on all bands. All this is explained in the user manual; please read it before trying to wire the unit. For units in Europe, a special AC cable (OPC-853) as well as the ferrite cores must be used to meet EURO EMC requirements. I would guess that the EURO AC cable has special EMI/RFI/EMC filtering in or on it. This additional filtering is found only on the Euro-version. CI-V set up Aside from the cable connections, which are illustrated and easy to do, setting up the CIV system with an ICOM radio is a little more mysterious. Two points should be stressed. (1) Be sure the transceiver has the baud rate set in the menu to 9600 baud. This can be changed later after the set up is complete. (2) Be sure to set the exciter switch on the back of the IC-PW1 for 1 if only one radio is to be used on the IC-PW1, or set for 2 if two radios are to be used with it.

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (4 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
If the user reads the operators manual in this area, and follows them, the set up should be straightforward and simple. I found the manual to be slightly misleading or to have omitted some critical data in the area of CI-V set up. There must have been a great many complaints about this matter too. I say this because ICOM included an addendum sheet that clarifies the set up, but only a little. Here is how it should go: (1) Turn on the PSU for the exciter. (2) Power up the exciter, (3) Set the CI-V setting in the exciter menu (if your using an ICOM radio that has a CI-V in it), (4) Set the baud rate to 9600 to start with, if this setting does not "lock-in", try 4800. (5) Then set the address to default. (6) Turn [on] the CI-V transceive setting. (7) Then shut off the exciter. (8) Next be sure the PW1 is turned off, (9) Then press and hold the input button while powering on the exciter. (10) The input 1 LED should start blinking. (11) Then start turning the exciters main knob until the input 1 LED stays lit continuously, this means that the system is set. (12) Shut down the exciter; this finishes the setup and you can now begin operating normally. In some versions of the PW1 (i.e. JA, EU), this procedure may not work as I have stated. However, it is the way my unit works. As I can understand the manual, there are two baud rates that are key. Usually when using only one exciter, the rate of 9600 will work most of the time. If you notice the PW1 loosing synchronization from time to time, a lower baud rate of 4800 should be used. For two exciters a rate 4800 for each exciter should be used, since the two are still using the same serial bus, the PW1 must cut the speed in half so both exciter stay synchronized. Again if a problem keeping locked-in with the PW1 results, the lower rate of 4800 should be used. My system works well at 9600, no problems. For use of the PW1 with older ICOM exciters (pre-756 era), there are special
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (5 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
procedures and interfaces needed, these are outlined in the users manual. ALC! This is the most important setting of all! Using ALC feedback is NOT an optional item! Use it, or the amp WILL be damaged at some point in its lifespan. The manual has step-by-step instructions on how to set it up. There is an error in the manual; where the step instructs the user to turn the [tuner] on, it should read, turn on the [amp] function. The tuner should only be used if the adjustment is to be made "onthe-air" but this is not a good practice, the operator should use a 50-ohm dummy load for this procedure. ICOM has included an addendum page warning the user about a possible problem that could happen when using the ACC cable with an ICOM exciter. This page states that the ACC2 (7 pin) port on the back panel of the ICOM transceiver should be used rather than the ACC1 (8 pin) port, the reason why because the ACC1 port does not provide ALC feedback to the IC-PW1. Be sure to use the ACC2 port only. The ALC system is the IC-PW1's first and most important of all the protective systems in this amp. Without it, the amp is nearly defenseless. In fact the IC-PW1 will "Fault" if the ALC line is not connected, (this only applies to non ICOM exciters), the ICOM exciter interface does not allow the ALC line not to be connected, its part of the interface cable. There have been a few failures of the PA devices that can be directly traced to either not using the ALC, or it being set improperly. It is hard to stress this matter loud enough! "If you don't use ALC, you ARE an idiot!" There is NO technically viable reason not to use it, or set it properly! On this point, I will NOT yield! The ALC setting procedure in the users manual is, in my opinion, slightly erroneous and needlessly complex. I will show the reader a much "simplified" setting procedure. (1) Set the ALC adjustment on the back of the PW1 to fully clockwise. (2) Set the RF drive level of the exciter to minimum level. (3) Place the exciter into RTTY or CW mode. (4) Set the PW1 meter 1 to Po. (5) Set the PW1 meter 2 to ALC. (6) Push Amp/Protect [on], (be sure the PW1 is powered up at the time). (7) Push transmit on the exciter, then slowly increase the RF drive, until Po meter1 reads 1100 watts. (8) Adjust the ALC pot on the back of the PW1 until the Po decreases to 1000 watts. (Do not attempt to operate the PW1 above its 1000W design rating!) (9) The ALC set procedure is now complete. Stop transmitting! (10) Leave the exciters RF drive level where it is for this power output. Be sure to return the control to this same setting each time you use the PW1. When the PW1

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (6 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
is not being used, the exciter RF drive can be set anywhere the user wishes, but it should be re-set to the original ALC level setting when the amp is enabled. You may ask "why?", the reason this setting should be used is that setting the RF drive level above the ALC level setting will cause excessive ALC activation and possible distortions in the transmitted signal induced by the ALC systems vigorous activity. So, setting the exciter RF drive level to the same level the ALC system was set up with or below it, will insure minimum ALC activity, and minimum transmitted distortions. The ALC meter 2 should read just about the [ALC adj. point] at 1000 watts output. The ALC meter on the exciter should read nearly the same level. All these adjustments should be done while transmitting into a 50 ohm dummy load. I can't recommend that these adjustments be done "on-the-air", this would cause needless interference. However, if you don't have a dummy load (every ham shack should have one), and must use your antenna system, be sure that the SWR is less than 1.5:1, if not, engage the ATU in the PW1 by pressing [tuner] before you engage the [Amp/Protect] button. CPU reset? It is likely to be more of an issue when buying a used IC-PW1, than a new one. This will clear any settings by the previous owner, and return the unit to factory default settings. Should a "glitch" take place sometime during the life of the unit, try a CPU reset, if this does not clear the problem, it should be returned to ICOM for servicing. A little more info on the CPUs, There are two processors: one main, and one tuner CPU. The main CPU has a clock speed of 9.8MHz. The tuner CPU has clock speed of 6.1MHz. Looking at the schematics, I notice a good design practice in amplifiers; there are bypass capacitors and RF chokes on every line coming into, or leaving nearly every board in the unit. Fans! Fans, and lots of them! [Three] 3" dia fans in the PA section alone. A [single] 4.4" dia fan on the PSU that runs as long as the unit is turned on. [One] 3" dia fan on the ATU, which runs only during transmit when the ATU is in the output signal path. I transmitted on SSB for about 10 minutes at 1000 watts out; when the [temp] meter read mid-scale, just about 122F or 50 C), then the PA section fans came on. At first, I could hardly hear them, so I shut off the A/C unit in my shack, and then I heard them

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (7 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
running. I have to say that even at full speed, all these fans are not as noisy as the fans in; my Alpha 86 amplifier. The airflow being drawn through the heat-sink reaches very high velocity, so there is a great deal of turbulence airflow noise that goes with the high speed of the three fans running. The cabinet remains cool to the touch, with a flow of warm air blowing out the back of the unit. Fan noise is very relative to the environment they are placed in. A computer running in the shack would likely mask most of the fan noise in the amp. My A/C unit almost fully masks the fans of the IC-PW1. My shack is likely more noisy than others. Separation and remote control of the main unit would relieve the fan noise problem for most operators. Although I don't find the fan noise overly objectionable on the IC-PW1, others might not be able to stand it. If you are one of those operators, who can't seem to stand any kind of fan noise in your shack, perhaps the PW1 is not for you. Maybe these operators should stick to Ten-Tec products.
Above is a picture of the PA section heat-sink. All the PA modules are thermally connected to this large block of aluminum with fins down the center, where the airflow is drawn in and exhausted out the back of the unit. It is a very efficient method of cooling the power devices. Since the PA section air intake is not filtered, this area should be cleaned with an ESD safe vacuum cleaner to remove accumulated dust that would severely reduce airflow and cooling. This should be done about once per year, and more often if your area is extremely dusty. 10/12 meter band enabling modification Commentary; This mod is a result of the silly mandate by the FCC that no commercially manufactured HF linear amplifier be able to operate on the 24-30MHz frequencies without authorization.
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (8 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
This rule has never worked, and never will work to prevent these amps from being used on the 11-meter band. It only served as an inconvenience to the buyers and users, and an added expense to the manufacturers. I dare say that there are more amps on the 11-meter band than all the other HF ham bands combined. It looks like the rule will soon be scrapped. It is about time! This section will explain how to do the modification to the PW1 in detail, with the aid of pictures & text. Diode # D18 on the main board must be removed to enable 10/12 meter transmit in the PW1. The main board is located on the right hand side of the PW1, when looking directly at the front face of the main unit, as seen in the graphic below.
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (9 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]

Above is a "blow-up" of the board layout from the PW1 service manual, which shows the exact location of D18, next to D19, which were only present in very early production units, but are now omitted at the factory.
Above is an actual photo of the main board area showing D18 in place. You will notice that the empty solder pads above D18 are where D19 would have been. Care should be taken when removing D18, to not damage any traces on the circuit board. Use a fine tipped, low wattage soldering iron or hot-air SMT gun, either way the unit should be ESD safe, to not possibly damage the delicate CMOS devices on the board. The diode should not be removed by "cutting" through it with cutters. This is a brutish and crude way to do this modification it could do serious damage to the board and traces. This diode will only be found in U.S. version of the PW1.
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (10 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
(Comment by Adam VA7OJ/AB4OJ: The 10/12m modification document, user and service manuals are downloadable on the ICOM FAQ site.) ATU Automatic Tuning Unit; The ATU is not entirely "automatic", the operator must first set the exciter in a "carrier" mode, such as RTTY, then set the level so that the ATU sees at least 60 watts (whether the amp is enabled or not), then the ATU button is pressed for at least 2 seconds to start a tune cycle. When the LED stops blinking the cycle is complete and the exciter can be unkeyed. The ATU is rather limited in its range of matching, which is a max. SWR of no more than 3:1 on HF, but on 50MHz it is limited to 2.5:1. The USA version can only tune the 1.8 - 1.95MHZ range of the 160-meter band. The ATU has up to 1dB insertion loss when in-line, so a good bit of heat is generated in the components, which is why a fan operates while transmitting through the ATU. (Comment by Adam VA7OJ/AB4OJ: At 1 kW nominal, assuming ATU insertion loss = 0.5 dB, the ATU network components dissipate 125W.) Any time the antenna system shows an SWR above 1.5:1, the ATU should be engaged to buffer the PA section of the amp. One area of the PW1 design that fell a little short was the fact that there is no SWR monitoring circuit at the output of the ATU, which is the last major unit in the output line. There is however a circuit at the input side of the ATU, which does not monitor the output side. (Comment by Adam VA7OJ/AB4OJ: The YAESU Quadra amplifier is fitted with this protective circuit.) This design omission means that a sudden high SWR condition can cause arcing in the ATU and or excessive drain current in the PA section. Therefore, the user should use an outboard system of SWR monitoring to watch for any signs of SWR and or high reflected power conditions. I use an RF applications model VFD, which has programmable SWR alarm, and optional ALO (Amplifier Lock Out) board. This unit alerts me to any sudden change in antenna system SWR. The first time I used the tuner, I was not sure it had tuned. It was as fast as pushing the button by the time I pulled my finger away from the button, the tuner was done. Very quick! The ATU uses two servo-motor driven air variable capacitors in combination with relay switched fixed capacitors and relay-switched toroid inductors. Optimum tune point presets are stored in EEPROM, and need no battery back-up.

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (11 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
These preset points are LC combinations for a given frequency. In many instances, the preset tune point works fine for the average elevated SWR condition. The ATU uses the preset tune points as a starting point for the tuner, if the SWR is still not matched at that point, the tuner begins tuning dynamically, and will track the exciters frequency movements, re-tuning automatically every 100kHz in 70 band segments. When the ATU is engaged, the PW1 can't do "instant" QSY! When a band change is made, a few seconds must be given for the tuning motors to set the capacitors in the proper pre-set points. If you attempt to transmit during this "presetting" time, damage may be done to the ATU controller circuits! The Tuner LED will flash during this time, and will light steady when the tuning is complete, do NOT transmit during this procedure! Antenna selector There are four antenna output ports and two input ports on the back of the IC-PW1. These can be used even when the amp is powered down, since the ICOM transceiver provides DC power for their operation. Antenna port selection is memorized, and returns to those ports use on previously used bands. Other automated functions are that the amp remembers whether the amp is enabled on one band and not on a different band, so when you return to that band, the amp enables or disables using the last setting for that band. The ATU will turn on or off in the same way the antenna ports are selected. All these settings are dynamically memorized, and will be retained until changed by the user, even if the unit is turned off and disconnected from the AC mains. I really like this feature of automation. PA section The PA (Power Amplifier) section, consists of eight MRF-150 Power MOSFETs paired in four PA modules. These devices are capable of continuous RF power output of 1200 watts, but ICOM instructs the user to not exceed 1kW output. The PA devices operate on up to 50Vdc. My IC-PW1 operates on about 45Vdc, which varies slightly with line voltage changes. Full current load voltage-drop is about 1-2Vdc. This is very good regulation. RF drive power is distributed to the four PA modules through transformer type splitters then the RF output from the PA modules is fed into a combiner before being fed to the LPF (Low Pass Filter) unit.

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (12 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
Above is a picture of one of the PA MOSFET devices, shown actual size. I tested the PW1 on most of the ham bands; the power output is very consistent, and changes very little from low frequency to high. The PA is very stable and efficient. A typical output from my PW1 is 1078 watts output, with about 38 watts of RF drive. The drain current at this output is about 38A. The IC-PW1 seems to do 1kW output with little effort, no "groaning" or humming under full current load was observed. It takes roughly 10 minutes of transmit time on SSB, running 1kW output, before the PA fans turn on. The fans will run as long as the user continues to transmit. When transmitting stops, the fans usually run for about 2 minutes to cool the PA. How long and often the fans run is relative to the shack temperature, cooler shack, less fan run time, hot shack, more run time. Protection The PW1 is very well protected be many systems. The primary electronic protective systems are eight items. Most of these faults will cause the unit to go to "by-pass" mode, others will cause complete shutdown of the unit. The [Amp/Protect] LED with turn Red when the protective circuits are active, also, the below Green LEDs will flash, indicating the various fault conditions described below. (1) [Temp], as in the temperature of the PA section heat-sink, this system bypasses the amp when temp reaches 100C or 212F. This indicator on the control-head alerts the user that the temp protection is active. (2) [Auto], indicator means that the four PA modules have become unbalanced. This indicates failure of a power device, or a defective splitter or combiner. (3) [ALC], indicates that the ALC level has been exceeded, or the ALC line has become disconnected. (4) [VDD], indicates that the PSU voltage has exceeded 55Vdc. An "over-volt" condition. (5) [IDD], indicates that the PA drain current has been exceeded. This level is 50A.
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (13 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
(6) Current band indicator flashing means that the PA gain has dropped below a preset level. (7) Selecting and current band indicators flashing, means that there is a conflict in frequency/band selection between the PW1 and the exciter. (8) Amp/Protect: the main PSU has malfunctioned, which will cause complete shutdown. There are other protective systems that do not have indicators. Cooling system: all fans will activate when the PS heat-sink temp reaches 50C or 122F. Circuit breakers: these are magnetic type, located on the back panel of the main unit. The USA version has 20A. circuit-breakers, EURO has 15A. Above all, the ALC system is by far the most important protective system for the PW1; dont operate without it! A protective device I found inside the PW1 can be seen in the picture below. Item A points to a gas-discharge static surge shunt.

This discharge tube is the same type found in some high-end coax switches. This device is placed on the common antenna line going to all the antenna ports on the back of the PW1. The device helps protect the amp from high static voltage build-ups on the antenna system, or surges induced into that system by a near-by lightening strike. It is possible that this device will eventually fail, it will show a dead short to ground, and should be replaced at that time. They are available through many parts vendors. They are not very expensive either. Keying The PW1 is designed to operate full QSK with ICOM transceivers, but can also operate with nearly any "non-ICOM" radio, but not necessarily full QSK. All this is explained in the manual. For use with an ICOM radio, the keying is done through the supplied cables, and is
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (14 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
super simple. If your worried that the keying voltage and current are to high for your "non-ICOM" radio, no problem. The keying voltage and current of the PW1 is 5Vdc @ 0.1A. Fully illustrated and explained instructions for connection to an ICOM or non-ICOM radio can be found in the users manual. During normal operation, there is virtually no noise from the keying relays. The band selection relays are much louder than any other relay noises. Meters There are two analog (moving coil) meters on the PW1, all measured parameters that require a variable scale are displayed on these meters. The signal fed to the meter movements is digital as it comes from the main CPU, but is then passed through the DAC (Digital-to-Analog-Converter) and into the meter. This way the readings are PEP in that aspect. All signal samplings are analog at the point the sample it taken, but then are converted into a digital data-stream by an ADC (Analog-to-Digital-Converter) and sent to the CPU for processing, then to the meter DAC for display. This system makes for highly accurate meter readings, but is limited by the meter movement ballistics, and inertia. I would say that this system would be about as accurate as any analog meter movement can get. An LED bar-graph would be faster in response, but would lack the fine resolution that an analog meter can give. I do notice that the meter inertia is very limiting on the "swing" of the needle, which harms the PEP accuracy of the meter. The meters read very accurate on a carrier type transmission, but on SSB, they "lag" badly. I use the meters mostly to monitor PA temp, and ALC or VDD most of the time I operate. The meters are brightly lit, & very easy to read. I used my RF applications VFD for power output and SWR monitoring. The meter is digital and very fast, so it works better for those critical readings. It is possible, due to the design of the remote, that in the future it could be retrofitted with a nice TFT "touch" screen, with digital metering. There are no processors or critical operating ICs in the current remote head, just switches, meters and indicators, so an LCD screen replacement would be very straightforward to design. Thinking about the possibilities for this remote has brought up some interesting thoughts for its future. Indicators and lighting Most of the indicators on the PW1 are LEDs, but the backlighting of the analog meters are incandescent 12Vdc lamps. These lamps are well known for their short life span; so,

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (15 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
when the unit is no longer under warranty I shall replace them with ultra-bright, high output jumbo LEDs. This replacement requires that a current limiting resistor in series with each lamp. Various sequences of blinking LED lights tell the user about certain "fault" conditions. The users manual will instruct the operator of what each flashing indicator means. Wouldn't it be cool to see all these indications on a sleek color TFT "touch" screen? It could be done, but does ICOM want to do it? Rather than having to look in the manual to see what the blinking LED means, have a digital display tell the user what the problem is in print on the screen. There is enough processing power in the PW1 now, just add a little more RAM, and a few more lines of code in the EEPROM, and it could be done. YAESU did it with the Quadra, so why couldn't ICOM? Separation The "control-head" of the PW1 can be separated from the main unit. There are a factorysupplied separation cable and cover-plate to do this task. Separation involves partial disassembly of the main unit. All of this is well explained and illustrated in the users manual. Once the control-head is removed, the cover-plate is installed in the hole it leaves. The plate has the ICOM logo and IC-PW1 model nicely embossed on it. A control cable is then routed from the back panel of the main unit to the remote control head. There is only about 9ft. of cable, so don't place the main unit too far away from the operating position. Separation maybe a good idea for those users who find the fan noise of the main unit objectionable and wish to move it away from the operating position. History/reliability Here are a few samples of PW1 user reports. You will see how this amp has performed for other users. Each entry begins with serial number, date & or year of purchase, point of purchase, and status report. # 011xx, June 2000, KJI elec. No problems. #010xx, Dec. 01', German ICOM dealer. No problems. #013xx, 12-01', KJI elect. N.J. Failure of the main PSU @ 11 months, replaced by ICOM.
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (16 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
#014xx, May 03', AES OH. Failed PA @ 13 months, ICOM extended the warranty and repaired the unit free of charge. #014xx, Mar.04', direct from ICOM USA. No problems. #015xx, Oct. 03', AES NV. No problems. #016xx, May 04', ELKEL Canada. No problems. #017xx, 02' , Dealer in Japan. No problems. #018xx, May 04', Japan. No problems. Serial # 01165 is the point where "older version" changes to "new version". One of the differences is that the older version had to be powered up to pass a signal from the antenna to the transceiver. The "new" version can pass a signal without being powered up. Users quoted To quote a few PW1 users; "I'm happy with the PW1, except for the fan noise." "Other amps put out more, but the PW1 is my favorite." "Works like a dream." "Its like a kW transceiver." "The greatest amp I've ever owned." "Poorly described setup, too little detail." Intermodulation Distortions?

file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (17 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
Above, is the IMD chart for the PW1. I assume that this is a typical waveform produced by the unit. I modified the original chart, by placing colored lines and dots to give the reader a greater understanding of the waveform. The driving signal is a two-tone test signal, an industry standard used to test linear amplifiers. The yellow vertical lines indicate a 3kHz wide area about the center frequency. The red dots indicate roughly the -6dB points on the waveform. The green dots indicate roughly the -40dB points on the waveform. The lab report on the IC-PW1 states that the unit has an IMD3 as -36dBc; IMD5 is 41dBc @ 14.01MHz. (0dBc = 1kW PEP 2 tone signal). These levels compare well with tube type amplifiers of good design. I have had tube type amps that have IMD3 readings of -33 to -38dBc, so the IC-PW1 compares very well with these amps. Below you can see the IMD test results on the screen of a spectrum analyzer as performed by the ARRL lab.
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (18 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
Courtesy of ARRL / QST Closing thoughts There is not a great deal that can be said about a piece of gear that operates quietly and is easy to use. I think most of the problems that occur with the PW1 are a direct result of the poor translations in the manual, or outright omissions. Another problem is when a user does not heed the warnings, or follow the manual instructions properly, that is when he/she gets into trouble. I had a slight problem setting up the CI-V, but I know I'm not the only one that has had this difficulty, mostly due to small errors, omissions, or badly translated manual data. I think that the IC-PW1 is an outstanding amplifier, however it is a bit pricey, but has a good record and is of good design. It is as perfect a match for ICOM transceivers as it gets. Like most new models of radio gear, the early units had problems that ICOM quickly addressed and the IC-PW1 is now a mature, stable product, which should be on the market for a number of years to come. I still like tube-type amplifiers too, so I will keep my old home-brew unit here for when I feel nostalgic and wish to dip-and-peak again, or should I get tired of pushing buttons. I have to agree with a "user" quote; "It IS like a kW transceiver, just dial the frequency and go. It's almost too easy." Addendum: After operating the PW1 for a while, one of my few complaints, is that ICOM did not place a "Tune" feature, such that when the user needs to transmit a carrier to allow the
file:///C|/Documents%20and%20Settings/Matt%20Erickson/My%20Documents/My%20Webs/pw1.htm (19 of 21) [12/5/2005 8:55:56 PM]
ATU to tune, or make an adjustment such as the ALC level, the user could punch a single "Tune" button, which could do this. As it is, the user must place the exciter into a carrier type mode like RTTY, CW, AM/FM etc. then adjust the RF output level, then engage the ATU or Amp on the PW1. It would be a simple matter to have this all done automatically by the PW1. The interface and software already exist in ICOM exciters, and the PW1. It mystifies me, why ICOM didn't add this feature while the PW1 was being redesigned in the early production upgrade. Oh well, we can't have everything we want. If this is one of my main complaints, I guess I don't have much to complain about July 2005; One year of operation, no problems. 73 de Matt KK5DR Links for further reading: Download the users manual addendum pages (PDF). E-mail discussion group on the PW1. What makes a good solid-state amp? The ICOM FAQ and Information Site. The ICOM America IC-PW1 Page. Copyright 2005 M.A. Erickson, KK5DR. All rights reserved.

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

HF/50 MHz ALL BAND 1 kW LINEAR AMPLIFIER

iPW1 iPW1EURO

IMPORTANT
READ THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL CAREFULLY before attempting to operate the linear amplier.
SAVE THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL. This
instruction manual contains important safety and operating instructions for the IC-PW1/IC-PW1EURO.

PRECAUTION

RWARNING HIGH VOLTAGE! NEVER
attach an antenna or internal antenna connector during transmission. This may result in an electrical shock or burn. AVOID using or placing the linear amplier or remote controller in areas with temperatures below 10C (+14F) or above +40C (+104F). AVOID placing the linear amplier or remote controller in excessively dusty environments or in direct sunlight. AVOID placing the linear amplier against walls or putting anything on top of the linear amplier. This will obstruct heat dissipation. BE CAREFUL! The linear amplier will become hot when operating if continuously for long periods. BE CAREFUL! Set the transceivers (exciters) RF output power to less than 100 W, otherwise, the ICPW1/EURO will be damaged. During maritime mobile operation, keep the linear amplier, remote controller and microphone as far away as possible from the magnetic navigation compass to prevent erroneous indications. The IC-PW1/EURO cannot be used with the AH-2 HF AUTOMATIC ANTENNA TUNER. For U.S.A. only CAUTION: Changes or modications to this device, not expressly approved by Icom Inc., could void your authority to operate this device under FCC regulations.
RWARNING! NEVER carry the linear amplier
by yourself. At least two persons must carry the linear amplier since it weights approx. 25 kg (55 lb).
RWARNING! NEVER apply AC voltage until the linear amplier is grounded. Touching the linear amplier may result in an electrical shock. RNEVER apply AC voltage that exceeds the suggested voltage. This could cause a re or ruin the IC-PW1/EURO.
RNEVER use an extension cord with the AC power
cable. Extension cords may cause re or electrical shock.
RNEVER let metal, wire or other objects touch any
internal part or connectors on the panel of the linear amplier. This will cause electric shock.
RNEVER expose the linear amplier or remote controller to rain, snow or any liquids.
NEVER allow children to play with the linear amplier or remote controller.
DO NOT operate the IC-PW1/EURO before adjusting the [ALC adj1] and [ALC adj2] pots properly on the rear panel of the linear amplier.
Icom, Icom Inc. and the are registered trademarks of Icom Incorporated (Japan) in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Russia and/or other countries.

EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS

WORD RWARNING CAUTION NOTE DEFINITION Personal injury, re hazard or electric shock may occur. Equipment damage may occur. If disregarded, inconvenience only. No risk of personal injury, re or electric shock. The explicit denitions described at left apply to this instruction manual.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

IMPORTANT.. i PRECAUTION... i EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS.. ii TABLE OF CONTENTS.. ii SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES.. ii 1 PANEL DESCRIPTION.. 14
I Front panel and remote controller. 1 I Rear panel.. 3 I System interconnections.. 7 I Separating the remote controller. 11

3 OPERATION... 1217

I When rst applying power (CPU resetting). 12 I Setting the ALC levels.. 12 I Programming the CI-V address. 13 I Initial settings for CI-V remote control operation... 14 I Operation.. 16 I Antenna tuner operation.. 17 I Protection circuit.. 17

Starts to tune the antenna manually when pushed for 2 sec.
- When the tuner cannot tune the antenna (SWR 1.5:1 or greater), the tuning circuit is bypassed automatically after 20 sec.
t LINEAR AMPLIFIER SWITCH [AMP/PROTECT] Turns the linear amplier ON and OFF.
- The [AMP/PROTECT] indicator lights green when the linear amplier is ON. (p. 16) - The [AMP/PROTECT] indicator lights red when the protector circuit is activated. (p. 17) - When the linear amplier is OFF, the [AMP/PROTECT] does not light and the exciters signal is applied to one of the output connectors or the IC-PW1/EUROs antenna tuner.
y LOWER BAND SELECTOR [DOWN] (p. 16) Selects the lower operating band when pushed.

I Rear panel

INPUT1

ALC2 SEND2

ALC1 SEND1 EXCITER 1 1&2

INPUT2

CONTROLLER

e r t y u i

REMOTE

ALC adj2

ALC adj1
q OUTPUT ANTENNA CONNECTORS [ANT1] [ANT4] (p. 6) Accept a 50 antenna with a PL-259 connector. w ACCESSORY SOCKET-1 [ACC-1] ACCESSORY SOCKET-2 [ACC-2] Enable connection to Icom exciters (transceivers).
- See the page at right for socket information. - The [ACC-2] socket is connected in parallel with [ACC1] by default and can be used for connecting external equipment such as the EX-627 AUTOMATIC ANTENNA SELECTOR, etc. These sockets can be separated by the [EXCITER] switch. (!0)
t SEND CONTROL JACKS [SEND1]/[SEND2] (p. 9) Input terminals for transmit control. Go to ground while transmitting.
- Max. control level: 5.0 V DC/0.1 A - Ground level: 0.5 to 0.8 V DC
y CI-V REMOTE CONTROL JACKS [REMOTE] (pgs. 79) Used for band control with an Icom CI-V exciter (transceiver). u ALC LEVEL ADJUSTMENT POTS [ALC adj1]/[ALC adj2] (p. 12) Adjust the ALC levels.
e REMOTE CONTROLLER CABLE HOLE [CONTROLLER] (p. 11) Used for separation of the remote controller and linear amplier. r ALC OUTPUT JACKS [ALC1]/[ALC2] (p. 12) Connect to the ALC input jack of a non-Icom exciter (transceiver).
- Control voltage: 10 to 0 V DC
RCAUTION! DO NOT operate the ICPW1/EURO before adjusting the [ALC adj1] and [ALC adj2] pots properly. This may damage the nal FETs. i CIRCUIT BREAKERS (p. 17) Cut off the AC input when over current occurs.

- Circuit breaker capacity: 20 A (U.S.A. version) 15 A (Europe version)
o GROUND TERMINAL (p. 6) Connect this terminal to a ground to prevent electrical shocks, TVI, BCI and other problems.
!0 EXCITER SELECTOR [EXCITER] (pgs. 79) Sets the connected exciter number.
- Select [1] when 1 exciter is connected. [ACC-2] outputs the received [ACC-1] signal to another Icom option such as the EX-627 AUTOMATIC ANTENNA SELECTOR. - Select [1&2] when 2 exciters or 1 exciter with 2 specied band antenna connectors is connected.
!1 INPUT ANTENNA CONNECTORS [INPUT1]/[INPUT2] (p. 6) Accept a 50 antenna with a PL-259 connector.

D ACC-1 SOCKET

ACC-1 PIN NO. PIN NAME

3 8V GND SEND

DESCRIPTION
Regulated reference 8 V DC input for band control.

SPECIFICATIONS

Input voltage Input current : 8 V 0.3 V : Less than 10 mA
Connects to ground. Input/output pin. Goes to ground when transmitting. When grounded, transmits. Band voltage input. (Varies with amateur band) ALC voltage output. Ground level Output current Input current Input voltage : 0.5 V to 0.8 V : Less than 20 mA : Less than 200 mA : 0 to 8.0 V

Rear panel view

BAND ALC NC 13.8 V
Control voltage : 10 to 0 V Output impedance : 10 k No connection.
13.8 V DC input terminal.

Input current

: Less than 1 A
D ACC-2 SOCKET (w/[EXCITER] is 1)
The following descriptions are applied when the [EXCITER] switch is set to 1 (default). When [EXCITER] is set to 1&2, [ACC-2] functions the same as [ACC-1] above for the 2nd exciter.

ACC-2 PIN NO. PIN NAME

Regulated reference 8 V DC output from the [ACC-1] socket.
Output voltage Output current : 8 V 0.3 V : Less than 10 mA

8V GND SEND

Connects to ground. Input/output pin. Goes to ground when transmitting. When grounded, transmits. Band voltage output from the [ACC-1] socket. (Varies with amateur band) ALC voltage output. Ground level Output current Input current Output voltage : 0.5 V to 0.8 V : Less than 20 mA : Less than 200 mA : 0 to 8.0 V

ALC NC 13.8 V

13.8 V DC output terminal from the [ACC-1] socket.

Output current

INSTALLATION AND CONNECTIONS
I AC power cable connection
A suitable AC power plug must be connected to the AC power cable end. See the diagram below for connection procedures. AC input voltage is automatically selected. The IC-PW1/EURO can accept either 100120 V AC or 200240 V AC power.* However, we recommend using 200240 V AC rather than 100120 V AC for better power supply efciency and longer periods of transmission.
* Europe version: 230 V AC only

I Unpacking

After unpacking, immediately report any damage to the delivering carrier or dealer. Keep the shipping cartons. For a description and a diagram of accessory equipment included with the IC-PW1/EURO, see SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES on p. ii of this manual.

I Ferrite core installation
The supplied cable ties (o in SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES) should be attached to the AC cable of the IC-PW1/EURO as illustrated below.
Attach and position the cable ties to the AC cable as illustrated. Ferrite core Cut the cable ties so that enough length remains to secure the ferrite core in place.
D Single-phase 3-wire line (200240 V AC) q The green wire from the AC power cable must be connected to the protective earth. w The black and white wires from the AC power cable can be connected to either terminal. *Use the appropriate AC plug if required.

AC cable

white black green
NOTE: Only one ferrite core is attached with the ICPW1EURO.
I OPC-853 AC cable with line lter
The IC-PW1EURO must be used with the OPC-853 AC cable to satisfy European R&TTE requirements.
D Single-phase 2-wire line (100120 V AC) q The green wire from the AC power cable must be connected to the protective earth. w The black wire from the AC power cable must be connected to the hot (live) wire. e The white wire from the AC power cable must be connected to the return wire.

white black green GND

I Selecting a location
Select a location for the linear amplier that allows adequate air circulation, free from extreme heat, cold, or vibrations, and away from TV sets, TV antenna elements, radios and other electro-magnetic sources. The linear amplier and remote controller sections of the IC-PW1/EURO can be separated. The remote controller can be placed near the operator for easy monitoring of linear amplier conditions at any time. See p. 10 for separation instructions. The linear amplier must be placed on a solid foundation since it is very heavy.
D Three-phase 3-wire line (200240 V AC) q The green wire from the AC power cable must be connected to the protective earth. w The black and white wires from the AC power cable can be connected to 2 of 3 wires.

I Grounding

To prevent electrical shock, television interference (TVI), broadcast interference (BCI) and other problems, ground the linear amplifier through the GROUND terminal on the rear panel. For best results, connect a heavy gauge wire or strap to a long earth-sunk copper rod. Make the distance between the GROUND terminal and ground as short as possible.

R WARNING: NEVER

connect the GROUND terminal to a gas or electric pipe, since the connection could cause an explosion or electric shock.

I Antenna

For radio communications, the antenna is of critical importance, along with output power and sensitivity. Select antenna(s), such as a well-matched 50 antenna with more than 2 kW power rating, and feedline. 1.5:1 of Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) is recommended for a desired band. Of course, the transmission line should be a coaxial cable. When using 1 antenna, use the [ANT1] connector.

Antenna SWR

Each antenna is tuned for a specied frequency range and SWR may be increased out-of-range. When the SWR is higher than approx. 2.0:1, the linear ampliers power drops to protect the nal FET. In this case, an antenna tuner is useful to match the linear amplier and antenna. Low SWR allows full power for transmitting even when using the antenna tuner. The IC-PW1/EURO has an SWR meter to monitor the antenna SWR continuously.
CAUTION: Protect your linear amplier from lightning by using a lightning arrestor.
PL-259 CONNECTOR INSTALLATION

Coupling ring

10 mm (soft solder) 10 mm
q Slide the coupling ring down. Strip the cable jacket and soft solder.

Soft solder

12 mm Solder Solder
w Strip the cable as shown at left. Soft solder the center conductor.
e Slide the connector body on and solder it.
r Screw the coupling ring onto the connector body.
30 mm 98 in 10 mm 38 in 12 mm 116 in
I System interconnections
1 or 2 Icom 100 W HF transceivers can be connected as exciters to the IC-PW1/EURO. Non-Icom transceivers can be used, however, band selection will not be synchronized for each exciter. See the following diagrams for making connections between the IC-PW1/EURO and an exciter (transceiver). See p. 5 for AC power cable connection.
CAUTION!: When connecting the supplied ACC cable to an Icom transceiver, be sure to connect the cable to the 7-pin [ACC(2)] jack on the exciter (transceiver) side.
If the ACC cable is connected to the 8-pin [ACC(1)] jack, the protector circuit in the IC-PW1/EURO will not able to read the ALC signal. If operation continues using this setup, damage (including the possibility of explosion) to the connected transceiver and/or IC-PW1/EURO will occur.

Icom standard 8 and 7-pin accessory jacks (transceiver side) [ACC(1)]

[ACC(2)]

Using 1 Icom exciter (transceiver)
To an antenna Remote control cable (supplied) ACC-1 ACC cable (supplied) Be sure to connect the cable to the 7-pin ACC(2) jack. INPUT1 INPUT2 Coaxial cable (optional) EXCITER 1 1&2 ANT2 GND Coaxial cable (supplied) Connect [INPUT2] if necessary. ANT1 ACC(2) REMOTE

IC-PW1/EURO

AC outlet (IC-PW1 : 100120/220240 V IC-PW1EURO : 230 V) Ground

IC-756

Using a 13-pin ACC socket (IC-706 series)
Remote control cable (supplied) To an antenna ACC-1 OPC-599 (optional) ACC cable (supplied) ANT REMOTE INPUT1 Coaxial cable (supplied) GND EXCITER 1 1&2 ANT1 ACC (13 pins) REMOTE

IC-706 series

Using 2 Icom exciters (transceivers)
The following connections also apply to transceivers having multiple antenna connectors for specied bands (e.g. IC-726, IC-729, etc.)
Remote control cable (supplied) OPC-599 (optional) ACC cable (supplied) ACC REMOTE

To an antenna ACC-1

Coaxial cable (supplied) INPUT1
ACC-2 REMOTE EXCITER 1 1&2
INPUT2 OPK-5 (optional) GND GND

IC-706 series IC-756

ANT1 or 2
Ground IC-PW1/EURO AC outlet ACC(2) (IC-PW1 : 100120/220240 V IC-PW1EURO : 230 V) Optional ACC cable (includedn in the OPK-5) Optional remote control cable (includedn in the OPK-5) Be sure to connect the cable to the 7-pin ACC(2) jack.
Using a non-Icom exciter (transceiver)
Set the [EXCITER] switch to [1] when 1 exciter is connected; set to [1&2] when 2 exciters are connected.
To an antenna ALC1 ANT SEND1 INPUT1 SEND
NOTE: The specications for the SEND relay are 5 V DC 0.1 A. If this level is exceeded, a large external relay must be used.

RCA plug ALC SEND

DC power

EXCITER 1 1&2

GND Coaxial cable (supplied)

RF OUT DC OUT SEND ALC

Non-Icom exciter
Using 1 Icom and 1 non-Icom exciters (transceivers)
To an antenna ACC-1 ACC cable (supplied)
Be sure to connect the cable to the 7-pin ACC(2) jack.
Remote control cable (supplied) ACC(2) ANT REMOTE Coaxial cable (supplied) INPUT1 INPUT2 GND Connect ANT1 or ANT2 REMOTE

ANT RF OUT

AC outlet (IC-PW1 : 100120/220240 V IC-PW1EURO : 230 V) SEND2

Ground

Coaxial cable (optional) SEND SEND

SEND DC OUT ALC

ALC2 RCA plug
Using non-Icom exciters (transceivers) when the IC-PW1/EUROs power is OFF
To use the antenna selector of the IC-PW1/EURO while the power is OFF, follow 1 of 2 methods. (1) Supply the antenna selector power to the ACC-1 socket Supply the 13.8 V DC, 0.5 A to pin 7 of the [ACC-1]/ [ACC-2] socket.
- Use [ACC-1] when the exciter is connected to [INPUT1]. - Use [ACC-2] when the exciter is connected to [INPUT2].

to IC-PW1/EURO [INPUT1] 13.8 V DC to IC-PW1/EURO [GND]

RF DC SEND ALC GND

(2) Use the auxiliary power supply Set the jumper to 2 to use the auxiliary power supply as shown at right.
- The antenna selector functions even when the ICPW1/EURO power is OFF

[ACC-1]

In addition set the jumper on the IC-PW1/EURO controller to 2 to turn the controllers LEDs OFF as shown at right. When the jumper is set to 2, the CI-V control does not function even if an Icom exciter is connected.
Jumper location of linear amplifier
IC-PW1/EURO (DIN) Non-Icom exciter
Jumper location of controller
These diagrams show the factory defaults.
NOTE: When using the antenna selector of the IC-PW1/EURO while the power is OFF, as above, tuner intialization of the IC-PW1/EURO may not be performed correctly if the applied voltage is insufcient. Check that the applied voltage to pin 7 of [ACC-1]/[ACC-2] socket is 13.8 V DC.
I Separating the remote controller
The control section of the linear amplier can be separated from the main body, doubling as a remote controller. It can be placed on the exciter or in another convenient place. q Disconnect the AC power cable. w Remove 8 screws from the sides of the linear amplier, then lift up the top cover. y Replace the control cable with the supplied separation cable through the cable hole. Use the shorter end (from the bushing) to connect to the remote controller.

Control cable

JACK unit MAIN unit Separation cable

(Fig. 1)

u Remove 2 screws from the cable hole cover on the linear amplier rear panel. Insert the separation cable into the cable hole. Keep the hole cover and screws for future use.
Longer end (from the bushing)

Control cable (step i)

Control cable (step e)

(Fig. 2)

e Unplug the control cable from J3 on the MAIN unit. r Remove 2 screws from the front panel of the linear amplier, then detach the remote controller. (Fig. 1) Attach the dummy panel onto the space left by the controller using the 2 screws.
i Plug the other longer end (from the bushing) of the separation cable into J10 on the JACK unit through the cable hole. Connect the grounding wire as shown below. Connect the control cable to J11.

Separation cable

To J3 (MAIN)
t Remove 5 screws from the rear panel of the remote controller, then remove the rear panel.

JACK unit

o Plug the other end of the control cable into J3 on the MAIN unit. (Fig. 2) !0 Replace the top cover and 8 screws.

OPERATION

I When rst applying power (CPU resetting)
Before rst applying power, make sure all connections required for your system are complete by referring to chapter 2. Then, reset the linear amplier using the following procedure. NOTE: Resetting CLEARS all programmed settings to default values. q Make sure the linear amplier, exciter and auxiliary power supply (p. 10) powers are OFF. w While pushing [UP] and [DOWN], push [POWER] to turn power ON.
- The internal CPU is reset. - The remote controller shows its initial condition when resetting is complete.
If the controllers power is supplied from non-Icom exciters or auxiliary power supply (p. 10), turn the exciter or auxiliary power supply ON while pushing [UP] and [DOWN] to reset the CPU.

[POWER]

e Reset the exciters CI-V settings after resetting. (pgs. 13, 14)

[DOWN]

I Setting the ALC levels
R CAUTION: Final FETs may be damaged if
the ALC level adjustment is set incorrectly. NOTE: Re-adjustment is necessary when replacing the exciter. q Select an antenna which has an SWR of 1.5:1 or better. w Set the 1st exciters RF output power for the minimum output. e Be sure that the [ALC adj1] and [ALC adj2] pots on the rear panel max. counterclockwise. (default)

[ALC adj2] [ALC adj1]

y Push the transmit meter-2 switch one or more times to select the ALC level meter.
- The [ALC] indicator lights.
u Push [TUNER] to turn the antenna tuner ON.
- The [TUNER] light lights.
i While adjusting the 1st exciters RF output power, transmit a 100 W output power of the selected band signal using CW or RTTY mode. o Adjust the [ALC adj1] pot to the ALC adjustment point as shown below.

ALC adjustment point

!0 Check that the Po meter shows 1 kW output power.

Po ID TEMP 0 10

1.5K W A

Output power

r Push [POWER] to turn the linear amplier power ON. t Push [UP] or [DOWN] to select an operating band except 50 MHz band.
- Select a band which uses a well-matched 50 antenna.
!1 Adjust the [ALC adj2] pot in the same manner when a 2nd exciter is connected.
I Programming the CI-V address
The IC-PW1/EURO uses CI-V frequency data for automatic selection of the operating band. Program the exciters address to use this capability as follows: For non-Icom exciters, the IC-PW1/EURO cannot be controlled using the CI-V function, so this setting is not necessary. For transceivers which have multiple antenna connectors for specied bands (e.g. IC-726, IC-729, etc.), set the same as for 2 Icom exciters.

IC-PW1 Icom exciter

Other NOTE:
IC-781; NEVER TURN THE POWER OFF of the IC-781 during the operation when you are using the IC-781 as one of the exciters, otherwise the CI-V control may be interrupted. Baud rate; Higher baud rate (e.g. 9600 bps) gives quick operation. When you select an extra Low baud rate (e.g. 300 bps), then the IC-PW1/EURO needs max. 15 sec. to start the operation. AUTO baud rate; When you want to use AUTO baud rate, turn the non-AUTO baud rate exciter ON rst, then turn the AUTO baud rate exciter ON. Push [POWER] to turn the linear amplier ON then turn the exciters power ON.

Address switch

It is not necessary to change the IC-PW1/EUROs default CI-V address (default S3=5, S4=4). However, in the case when you will connect two (2) ICPW1/EUROs like as above left1, please set a different address number using the internal address switch as illustrated as above right. NOTE: Turn the power OFF when you are going to change the address setting, then programming the CI-V address again.
Initial settings for CI-V remote control operation
Before setting the remote control operation, refer to the following operating procedure. When using one (1) Icom exciter with one (1) ANT line;
ANT ACC -1 OPC-599 (optional) ANT ACC cable (supplied) REMOTE INPUT1 ANT1 or 2 ANT1 REMOTE EXCITER 1 1&2 IC-706 GND GND REMOTE ACC -2 REMOTE INPUT1 ACC INPUT2 GND GND ANT1
When using two (2) Icom exciters;
ACC -1 ACC (supplied) OPC -599 (optional) ACC (13 pins) REMOTE
IC - PW1/EURO GND Optional ACC cable (included in OPK-5) Optional remote control cable (included in OPK-5) IC - PW1/EURO ACC(2) REMOTE
q Turn OFF both of the IC-PW1/EURO and exciter. w Set [EXCITER] to [1] position. e While pushing and holding the [INPUT] switch on the IC-PW1/EURO controller, turn the exciters power ON. r Rotate the exciters dial until the LED [INPUT z] lights continuously. t Turn the exciters power OFF to complete the setting.
LED [INPUT z] over the [INPUT] switch blinks.
q Turn OFF both of the IC-PW1/EURO and exciters. w Set [EXCITER] to [1&2] position. e Set the exciters CI-V baud rate if required.

When selecting the different baud rate for each exciter, CI-V data setting may fail depending on the exciter. In such case, use the same baud rate for each exciter. Each exciters frequencies may be synchronised. When connecting the AUTO baud rate exciter and Non-AUTO baud rate exciter, the exciters frequencies may not synchronize in some cases.
r While pushing and holding the [INPUT] switch on the IC-PW1/EURO controller, turn the 1st exciters power ON.

LED [INPUT z] blinks.

Initial settings for CI-V remote control operation (continued)
t Push [DOWN] to turn the position memory function for the [INPUT] select switch ON.
The band indicators, [1.8][50], light continuously.
When using one (1) Icom and one (1) nonIcom exciter;

ACC cable

y Rotate the 1st exciters dial until the LED [INPUT z] lights continuously. u Turn the 2nd exciters power ON. i Push [INPUT].

LED [INPUT x] blinks.

REMOTE INPUT1 INPUT2 GND ACC(2) ANT1 or 2 REMOTE
o Rotate the 2nd exciters dial until the LED [INPUT x] lights continuously. !0 Turn both exciters power OFF to complete the setting.

SEND 2

RF OUT

IC - PW1/EURO

GND SEND
When using one (1) Icom exciter with two (2) ANT lines (e.g. IC-756PRO etc.);
D DC power ALC 2 RC RCA plug

ACC -1

REMOTE INPUT1 INPUT2
ACC (2) EXCITER 1 1&2 ANT2 GND ANT1
q Turn OFF both the IC-PW1/EURO and exciters. w Set [EXCITER] to [1&2] position. e While pushing and holding the [INPUT] switch on the IC-PW1/EURO controller, turn the 1st exciters power ON. r Rotate the exciters dial until the LED [INPUT z] lights continuously. t Turn the exciters power OFF to complete the setting. When using two (2) non-Icom exciters;
ALC 1 SEND 1 ANT INPUT 1 INPUT 2 DC power

IC - PW1/EURO IC-756

q Turn OFF both the IC-PW1/EURO and exciter. w Set [EXCITER] to [1] position. e While pushing and holding the [INPUT] switch on the IC-PW1/EURO controller, turn the exciters power ON. r Rotate the exciters dial until the LED [INPUT z] lights continuously. t Push [INPUT]. y Rotate the exciters dial until the LED [INPUT x] lights continuously.
The band indicators, [1.8][50], turn OFF. AUTO indicator lights continuously. LED [INPUT x] blinks.

RCA plug

ALC SEND SEND

ALC EXCITER 1 1&2

Non-Icom exciter ANT
RF OUT DC power SEND ALC GND
RF OUT DC SEND power ALC GND
u Turn the exciters power OFF to complete the setting.
GND RCA plug SEND 2 SEND SEND
Set [EXCITER] to [1&2] position, only. *No other setting is required.

I Operation

CAUTION:
DO NOT operate the IC-PW1/EURO before adjusting the ALC levels properly with the [ALC adj1] and [ALC adj2] pots. (p. 11) It takes 15 sec. for CI-V line initial settings when several CI-V devices (more than 5) are connected to a CI-V line. For IC-781 users with other Icom CI-V transceivers: Turn the IC-781 power ON before turning the ICPW1/EURO and other transceiver power ON and keep the IC-781 power ON during operation. q Push [POWER] to turn the linear amplier ON then turn the exciters power ON.

y Push [UP]/[DOWN] to select [AUTO] for automatic band selection when a CI-V Icom exciter is used; or push [UP]/[DOWN] to select the desired band for manual band selection. u Use the exciters antenna tuner to tune the line between the IC-PW1/EURO and exciter, if you have an antenna tuner connected to the exciter. i Transmit with the exciter and adjust the exciters output power to 50 W with the RF output power control on the exciter.
- [TRANSMIT] indicator lights. - See the exciters instruction manual for transmitting.
o The built-in antenna tuner automatically tunes the antenna.
- SWR reading on meter-2 should be less than 1.2:1. - Push [TUNER] for 2 sec. to tune the antenna manually. - The [TUNER] indicator blinks while tuning. - The [TUNER] indicator lights while the tuner is activated.
NOTE: The band information is not updated while scanning. Turn the antenna tuner OFF and use the manual band selection while scanning. During split operation: When changing the frequency more than 100 kHz, the IC-PW1/EUROs antenna tuner presets the tuner to the new frequency. Use manual tuning during split operation. !0 When operating for long periods, select the temperature meter with [METER-1] to monitor the linear ampliers temperature.
- If the temperature meter reading is in the red HOT zone, the exciter should be returned to receive, otherwise, the protection circuit may be activated and the linear amplier may be turned OFF.
w Select the input/output antenna with [INPUT] and [ANT]. e Set the exciter to CW or RTTY mode with minimum output power. r Select the temperature and SWR meters with [METER-1] and [METER-2].
- The [TEMP] and [SWR] indicators light.
Temperature protection range
t Push [TUNER] and [AMP/PROTECT] to turn the automatic antenna tuner and linear amplier circuit ON.

D Band memory

The IC-PW1/EURO stores ON/OFF settings for the antenna tuner and linear amplier according to the operating band when at least 1 Icom exciter is connected to the [INPUT1] connector. The set conditions may not be stored when the linear amplier is turned OFF immediately after setting the antenna tuner and linear amplier.

[AMP/PROTECT]

[TUNER]
I Antenna tuner operation
The built-in automatic antenna tuner can match the antenna feed line impedance to 50 when the feed line impedance is within 16.7 to 150 for HF bands (VSWR 3:1) or within 20 to 125 for 50 MHz bands (VSWR 2.5:1). Once the tuner matches an antenna, the tuning circuit condition is memorized as a preset point for each frequency range (100 kHz steps, 70 ranges). Therefore, when you change the frequency range, the tuning circuit is automatically preset to the memorized point. This antenna tuner is also used when the linear amplier is turned OFF. Push [TUNER] for 2 sec. to start manual antenna tuning.
When the tuner cannot tune the antenna (SWR 1.5:1 or greater), the tuning circuit is bypassed automatically after 20 sec.

While operating in the 50 MHz band, the antenna tuner does not start automatically. Push [TUNER] for 2 sec. to tune the antenna manually.

I Protection circuit

This linear amplier has various protection circuits.
D Linear amplier protection circuit
When a protection circuit is activated, a band indicator blinks to show a problem as described below. [AMP/PROTECT] lights red when a protection circuit is activated.
- Push [AMP/PROTECT] to cancel the protection circuit. Item 1 Indication [TEMP] Possible cause The heatsink temperature of the final FETs exceeds 100C (212F). Power level of the 4 PA units becomes unbalanced. ALC control level exceeds the control range. Output voltage of the internal power supply exceeds 55 V DC. Current of the nal FETs (ID) exceeds 50 A. Gain of the nal FETs drops. When transmitting with different band selections between the linear amplier and exciter. The power supply has a malfunction.

D ALC circuit

The ALC (Automatic Level Control) circuit automatically limits RF output power by controlling the input level of the exciter. This prevents transmission of distorted signals when the input signal level exceeds the allowable level. The ALC activates under the following conditions:
- Output power of the linear amplier exceeds 1 kW - Antenna SWR becomes 2:1 or more - Output power of the exciter exceeds 100 W
[AUTO] [ALC] [VD] [ID] Current bands indicator Selected and current bands indicator [AMP/PROTECT]

D Cooling fans

The power supply cooling fans activate when the linear amplier is activated and while transmitting. The antenna tuner cooling fans activate when the antenna tuner is activated and while transmitting. All cooling fans activate when the heatsink temperature of the nal FETs reaches 50 C (122 F) or more.

D Circuit breaker

If the circuit breaker activates or the linear amplier stops functioning, try to nd the source of the problem, then push the circuit breaker button to ll the white parts. - Circuit breaker capacity: 20 A (U.S.A. version) 15 A (Europe version)

MAINTENANCE

I Troubleshooting