ACOM 2000A | Automatic HF Linear Amplifier

ACOM 2000A | Automatic HF Linear Amplifier


Usage
The ACOM 2000A Automatic HF Linear Amplifier is the world's most advanced HF amplifier designed for amateur use. The ACOM 2000A is the first amateur HF amplifier to include both fully automatic tuning and sophisticated digital control capabilities. This revolutionary new amplifier delivers maximum legal power in all modes and operates on all HF amateur bands.

A New standard in amplifier features and performance
The ACOM 2000A represents a major advance in the state-of-the-art in HF amplifier design. It changes forever the way radio amateurs employ HF power amplifiers in their stations.
Instantaneous, automatic tuning makes slow, cumbersome band changes a thing of the past.
A built-in, wide-range antenna tuner matches loads with high SWR (up to 3:1), often eliminating the cost and complexity of an external, high-power antenna tuner.
Advanced protection circuits ensure amplifier safety under every potential combination of operating conditions.
Remote diagnostic features and modular design ease fault isolation and repair.

Cutting-edge technology enhances a classic design
At the core of the ACOM 2000A is a classic HF amplifier design, employing two 4CX800A high performance ceramic metal tetrodes operating in a grid-driven configuration.
This design was chosen for its inherent stability and extremely low production of spurious emissions. ACOM coupled this tried-and-true configuration with today’s most advanced digital control technology to create an amplifier with outstanding performance, features and reliability.

Matched pair tube operation
Starting January 1st, 2024, a NEW matched pair 4CX800A high-performance ceramic-metal tetrode is used for maximum efficiency.
Till the end of 2023, the amplifier was produced with Svetlana GU74B (4CX800A) tubes.

Clean signal
Grid-driven tetrodes, cathode negative feedback, excellent transceiver loading (typically below 1.2:1 input SWR), and regulated SG voltage result in an extremely low distorted output. Measured typical IMD are - 40 dB (3rd order) and - 45 dB (5th order). Classical Pi-L network, all-air coils (no ferrite), and carefully designed layout of the output tank offer typical harmonic emissions as low as - 55 dBc (second) and below - 70 dBc (third and above). Thus, probability of QRM, BCI or TVI is dramatically minimized.

Automatic tuning
The automatic tuning features in the ACOM 2000A represent a real breakthrough in HF amplifier design. Never think about an ATU for SWR up to 3:1 (2:1 on 160 m). Matching the actual antenna impedances to the optimum tubes load is completely automated. Typically 1 second and no skill is required. By completely eliminating time-consuming tune-up procedures, the ACOM 2000A has gives contesters a real edge. It is now possible to change bands without a moment’s thought. You can work every multiplier spotted using software point-and-shoot - regardless of band. And always know the amp is properly tuned and operating safely.
The amplifier follows your transceiver's band and frequency automatically in less than a second. No special cables are required. Just a dot on CW or "Ah" on SSB are enough.
The ACOM 2000A breaks every amateur band into multiple frequency segments. The user can store up to 10 sets of tuning adjustments for every frequency segment - allowing individual settings for multiple antennas on each band. SWR can increase considerably when an antenna is operated away from its resonant frequency. Unlike other amplifiers on the market today, the ACOM 2000 output matching network allows the amplifier to operate at full power, even with SWR as high as 3:1 (2:1 on 160 m).

Advanced digital control
Microprocessor control improves performance and makes possible a wide range of new, advanced features.

QSK
Full break-in (QSK) based on a built-in vacuum relay. Transmit/receive switching sequence is secured by a dedicated microprocessor.

Remote Control Unit
Only the Remote Control Unit needs to be placed near the operator. The main unit can be installed up to 3 meters (10 feet) away. RCU features include: amplifier status shown on LCD display, control of all functions, measuring and/or monitoring of the 20 most important parameters, on-board technical assistance, troubleshooting suggestions, record of power-on hours, password provided.

Protection
All tubes voltages and currents, supply voltages, overheating, overdrive, insufficient flow of cooling air, internal and external RF arcs (in the amplifier, antenna selector, tuner or antennas), T/R sequencing, antenna relay contact hot switching, antenna matching quality, reflected power, stored data, inrush power-on current, and cover interlock for operator safety. Antenna matching can be achieved in less than 10 seconds and at a quarter of nominal output power, which produces lower risk of interference to other stations and greater safety to the amplifier components.

Easy maintenance
The protection system makes damaging the amplifier a difficult job. Information on the 12 most recent protection trips is stored in the memory for remote diagnostics via PC or Internet.

Remote control capabilities
Controlled remotely via the Internet by the ACOM eBox Ethernet Remote Control device (optional equipment) and through an RS-232 port.
ACOM eBox device permits full integration into any computer-driven station configuration. All functions are accessible from a PC via Internet browser. Local network may include more than one amplifier/antenna unit set working in a system.

Documentation
The User's Manual is available as a PDF file only. The latest version of the User's Manual is available under the Download tab (see above).


Frequency Coverage

  • All amateur bands from 1.8 through 29.7 MHz:
    • 1.800 - 2.000 MHz (160 m band)
    • 3.500 - 4.000 MHz (80 m band)
    • 7.000 - 7.300 MHz (40 m band)
    • 10.100 - 10.150 MHz (30 m band)
    • 14.000 - 14.350 MHz (20 m band)
    • 18.068 - 18.168 MHz (17 m band)
    • 21.000 - 21.450 MHz (15 m band)
    • 24.890 - 24.990 MHz (12 m band)
    • 28.000 - 29.700 MHz (10 m band)
  • Please, refer the applicable regional band plans and laws for specific allocations and limitations;
  • In specific business cases, extensions or changes of the frequency coverage can be discussed, but this must be agreed upon before ordering. In any case, this is not the producer's obligation and can not be against local rules and laws.

Rated Power Output

  • 1500 W, PEP or continuous carrier, no mode limit (at 200/240 VAC mains supply);
  • In continuous modes (RTTY, etc.) for transmissions longer than 15 minutes (up to several hours depending on ambient temperature), the optional auxiliary fan must be mounted);

Automatic Tuning

  • Load impedance matching - less than 3 seconds;
  • Band change - less than 1 second;
  • Segment change - less than 0.2 seconds;

Tuning memories

  • Non-volatile memory for up to 10 antennas per frequency segment;

Intermodulation Distortion

  • Better than 35 dB below rated PEP output;

Hum and Noise

  • Better than 35 dB below rated output;

Harmonic Output Suppression

  • Better than 50 dB below rated output;

Drive power

  • Typically 50 W for 1500 W output;

Input and Output Impedances

  • Nominal value: 50 Ohm unbalanced, UHF (SO-239) type connectors;
  • Input circuit: broadband, SWR below 1.3:1, 1.8-30-MHz continuously (no tuning, no switching);
  • Bypass path SWR below than 1.1:1, 1.8-30 MHz continuously;
  • Output (antenna) impedance matching capability: SWR up to 3:1 (2:1 for 160 m) or greater at reduced output levels; Automated;

RF Gain

  • 14.5 dB typically, frequency response less than 0.5 dB (50-60 W drive power for rated output);

T/R and keying

  • Vacuum Relay: QSK capable;

Tubes and Circuit

  • 4CX800A/GU74b tetrodes (2 pieces); resistive grid, PI-L output with RF negative feedback. Regulated screen grid voltage;

ALC

  • ALC: grid-current derived, -11 V max, rear panel adjustable;

Metering

  • Comprehensive. Remote Control Unit provides flexible monitoring of all amplifier operating parameters;

Protection

  • Grid and screen current limiting;
  • Power inrush (soft-start provided);
  • Trip to excessive reflected power;
  • RF arcs;
  • Password access protection if needed;
  • Correct T/R sequencing;
  • Tube exhaust overheat;
  • Cover interlock and HV crowbar;

Fault Diagnosis

  • Remote Control Unit display and LED's plus information for 12 most recent events;
  • Remote diagnostic via eBox Ethernet Remote Control Device (option);
  • RS-232 interface for PC connection;

Cooling

  • Full cabinet forced-air;
  • Rubber isolated blower;

HV Transformer

  • 3.5 kVA with strip-wound Unisil-H core;

Mains Power Supply Voltage

  • 90-132 VAC / 180-264 VAC (100, 120, 200, 220 & 240 V nominal taps, +10% -10% tolerance), 50-60 Hz, Single phase;

Mains Power Consumption

  • Up to 3500 VA at rated output from 200/240 VAC mains supply;
  • Up to 2400 VA at 1000 W output from 100/120 VAC mains supply;

Amplifier-RCU Connecting cable

  • Cable length: 3 m;
  • Cable length: 20 m (option);

Safety and Electromagnetic Compatibility

  • Complies with CE safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements, as well as with the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations;

Size & Weight (operating, excluding connected cables)

  • Amplifier, WxDxH: 440x500x180 mm, 36.5 kg (17.3x19.7x7.1 inches, 80.5 lbs.);
  • RCU, WxDxH: 170x138x63 mm, (6.7x5.4x2.5 inches);

Shipping Size & Weight

  • Shipped in 2 cartons;
  • Amplifier carton (including RCU and connecting cable), WxDxH: Approx. 610x590x390 mm, 25.5 kg (24.1x23.3x15.4 inches, 56.3 lbs.);
  • HV Transformer carton, WxDxH: Approx. 330x390x370 mm, 17.5 kg (13.0x15.4x14.6 inches, 38.6 lbs.);
  • Please, contact us for shipment details;

Operating environments

  • Temperature range: 0 to +50 degrees Celsius (32 degrees F to 122 degrees F);
  • Relative air humidity: up to 95% @ +35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees F);
  • Height above sea level: up to 3050 m (10000 ft) without output deterioration.

There are several individual purchase options available:

  1. ACOM eBox | Ethernet Remote Control Device
  2. ACOM 2000S | Automatic Antenna Selector
  3. ACOM 2000SW | Remote Antenna Switch
  4. External fan
  5. Extension cable for Remote Control Unit.
  6. RPON | Remote Power On Adapter
  7. Coffee/tea mug :-)

    1  |  Remote control of ACOM 2000A is provided by ACOM eBox Ethernet remote control device.
    2 & 3  |  Both ACOM 2000S (automatic antenna selector) and ACOM 2000SW (remote antenna switch) operate perfectly together. Thus, is recommended both devices be ordered as a package.

    4  |  For higher-duty cycles such as continuous broadcast or increased ambient temperature, additional fan use is recommended. The auxiliary fan is brushless type, 2...5 W, 24 VDC, size 119x119 mm. It may be installed by your dealer or by the manufacturer on request. ACOM recommends a fan ordering, if you need it, with the purchase of a new amp.
    The fan is not necessary in SSB and CW modes, nor in continuous carrier modes (RTTY, SSTV, etc.) with carrier down times of a maximum of 15 minutes and a subsequent pause of 3 minutes.

    5  |  For ergonomic operation you can place the RCU on your desk, near to your transceiver. The supplied 3 meters (10 ft) cable (from RCU to amp) may be easily extended to the needed length (up to 20 m).

    6  |  The ACOM RPON (Remote Power ON) adapter is designed to complete the ACOM 2000A automatic HF linear amplifiers. I.e., ACOM RPON is optional equipment for ACOM 2000A and must be used with these amplifiers only.
    The ACOM RPON allows remote Power On and Power Off of ACOM 2000A amplifiers via a PC RS-232 interface. The adapter can be used via many free software packages available on the Internet (NOT offered by ACOM) or via the customer's specific software. The ACOM RPON is designed for "one-click" installation directly over the RCU and RS-232 connectors of the ACOM 2000A rear panel.

    7  |  The ACOM coffee/tea mug is your amp's most important option.
    This is the only guarantee for successful DXing and a happy life :-)