Steps to troubleshoot a Transmitter with low Forward (Output) Power or high Reflective Power level.
Low forward power may be due to the Transmitter's power supply. It's recommended to verify the Transmitter power supply output voltage is between 9 and 10 volts.
1 Watt Transmitter Power Supply Testing - This model has a direct 9 volt power supply.
-
Unplug the power supply from the Transmitter. Test the power supply voltage pull to ensure it's between 9 and 10 volts.
For a measurement that is less or greater than 9 or 10 volts, it's recommended to replace the power supply to determine if this corrects the lack of signal emanating from the Transmitter. Primex power supply part number XR Series Q13609 and 14000 Series Q13608.
If the power supply has correct voltage, a replacement Transmitter is required.
5 and 30 Watt Transmitter - Exciter Power Supply Testing.
These models are powered by an exciter power supply located in the Transmitter housing. To test the power supply voltage complete the steps below.
-
Power down the Transmitter from the power toggle switch located on the back side of the Transmitter. Verify the red light to the switch is off and the switch is in the down position
.
-
From the back side of the Transmitter housing, locate and unscrew the four screws to remove the rear panel.
-
Locate the power supply and unplug the power supply from the exciter to test voltage.
-
Power back on the Transmitter to test the power supply voltage. Voltage is required to be between 9 to 10 volts and providing just over 2 amps; amperage is difficult to verify.
For a measurement that is less or greater than 9 or 10 volts, it's recommended to replace the power supply to determine if this corrects the lack of signal emanating from the Transmitter. Primex XR Series power supply part number Q13609.
If the exciter power supply has the correct voltage, a replacement Transmitter is required.
Check the external antenna connections: ensure they have a tight connection.
Inspect the LMR400 coaxial cable and antenna: ensure no damage is present.
-
Verify the external antenna is installed at the proper height.
1 Watt Transmitter: 5 ft. (1.5 m) above roofline
5 or 30 Watt Transmitter: 6.5 ft. (1.9 m) above roofline
Verify there is a minimum of 15 ft. (4.5 m) clearance from any other antennas. High reflective power can also occur if mounted near metal surfaces. It's recommended move the antenna to an area that is not near metal or other antennas.
If the above steps do not resolve the reflective power going back to the Transmitter, it's recommended to replace the LMR400 coaxial cable (part number Q12605) and antenna (part number Q12770).
Probable Reflective Power. Primex external antenna identified in the red box.
Antenna mast is bent. Primex would recommend to replace the mast with a 10 ft. (3.0 m) length of 1 ½ in. (38.1 mm) rigid conduit.
Three other antennas within 15 ft. (4.5 m) and the radials from those antennas are also pointing at the Primex antenna. Primex antenna requires 15 feet of distance from other antennas. This may not create reflective power, but is certainly a direct interference of signal.
