EME151 RF Power Head Kits

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EME151 Power Head Description:

There were two RF Power Head Kits available that used low cost RF detectors that can be used to read RF power, and produce both an analogue DC, and I2C data and clock outputs. These Kits could be used for simple RF power measurements using a multimeter, or can be connected to the AD9851 DDS VFO Kit using the optional SWEEP Ver2.0 software.  The 500MHz Power Head uses the AD8307 and covers from DC to 500MHz, and the 7GHz Power Head uses the LTC5508 and covers approximately 300MHz to 7GHz. All calibration data is stored in the PIC12F675 onboard micro controller. The PIC12F675 produces I2C data and clock, and requires a PIC16F648 micro controller using the SWEEP Ver.0 software to be able to read it and display the readings on a LCD display.

Kit Constructors Alert:

There are no current alerts.

Power Head Software:

Although no problems have been found with the final Software version for both the 500MHz and 7GHz Kits, Mini-Kits takes no responsibility for faults and minor glitches in the Software supplied with Kits.

Software Description.

Please refer to the Power Meter Software documentation for more information.

The Powerhead Software is available for Download but we are no longer offering any support.

To calibrate the software in the PIC12F675 micro controller, it must be connected to the DDS-VFO Kit using SWEEP software Ver2.0. For more information on calibration of the Power Meter settings, please see the Sweep software documentation.

Due to variations with various AD8307 and LTC5508 chips, the standard software supplied with Kits may not be calibrated accurately and will require calibration against a know accurate meter.

Changes and Updates:

500MHz RF Power Head KIT

1/ This applies to all Power head Kits. A substantial performance improvement can be made by shielding the complete power head in a metal enclosure. This will block stray RF that will allow the power head to read low RF power levels. The Hammond 1590A may be a good solution for mounting these Kits allowing for some room to fit a multi pin connector on the end.

7GHz RF Power Head KIT

1/ This applies to all Power head Kits. A substantial performance improvement can be made by shielding the complete power head in a metal enclosure. This will block stray RF that will allow the power head to read low RF power levels. The Hammond 1590A may be a good solution for mounting these Kits allowing for some room to fit a multi pin connector on the end.

2/ No DC analogue output from the Power Head. Check the 22ohm resistor O/C from the +5v regulator to pins 6 and 7 of the AD8307.