' ....(�..

8
:
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RESTRICTED

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TRANS�ITTER FUNDA�ENTALS

COURSE 502

NAVAL TRAINING SCHOOL

(RADIO MATERIEL)
TREASURE ISLAND
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

FEBRUARY 1945

{
 COURSE 502 1

f TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

INTRODUCTION TO TRANSMITTERS

Most Navy communication must be accomplished without wires between ships or sta­
tions. In order to do this, radio transmitters are used to convert the intelligence
into electromagnetic waves which can be transmitted through space.

The radio frequency spectrum is divided into the following standard frequency bands
by the Federal Communications Commission:

D ESIGNATION FREQUENCIES COMMUNICATION USES

Super high SHF 3,000 to 30,000 me. )

Ultra high UHF 300 to 3,000 me. ) Short distance only.
Very high VHF 30 to 300 me. )
High HF 3 to 30 me. Distance depends on time of day.
Medium MF 300 to 3,000 kc. Long distance at night only.
Low LF 30 to 300 kc. ) With high power, reliable long distance

Very low VLF 10 to 30 kc. ) day or night.

A complete radio transmitter may use amplifiers of several different types. The
following table reviews the c lasses of operation and shows typical uses of each:

CLASS OF HOW PLATE GRID TYPICAL USE OF AMPLIFIER

( OPERATION BIASED CURRENT

FLOWS
CURRENT
FLOWS
IN TRANSMITTER
RECEIVER
OR

Between �ero and C l a s s A1 Speech amplifier.

cutoff, near the o
o RF, IF, and AF stages in
center of the ° r eceiver.
Class A 360
straight portion Class � Limiter in FM r e c eiver.
of e vs i curve On sig nal peaks A u dio osci l l a t or.
c b

Between zero and Slightly Class AB1

cutoff, but less oO
Class AB
usually more than
° Driver in modulator.
negative than 360 Class A13:2 RF oscillator in receiver.
Class A Ch signal peaks

Class JK'
At cutoff, About oo !lilt i 'e 1 in modulator.
°
Class B or projected 180 Linear RF amplifier for
cutoff Class B:2 low-level modulation.
Ch signal peaks

Class � Buffer.
o
More negative Usually o
Class C than 1 1/2 less
times cutoff than Class C2 RF power amplifier in
°
150 Ch signal peaks transmitter,
------

(
2 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

The following figures il lustrate the differences between the types of emission used ,,
i n Navy communication transmitters:

! �II I I I I IHI I Ii i ii�!�! III!!HI I!II I I !I I I I I I I I I I I I � !

A-1 OR cw

,- R , I �ECEIVER-l
TRANSMITTER I
F
1 I
1

L _j I =
�

-l:l � EY
L §] j� PHONES

- r -

502- I RESTRICTED

R.M.S. T.L JAN. 30, 1945

Fig. 1 Radiotelegraph system.

TYPE OF EMISSION: Radiotelegraphy. A-1 or CW.

USE: Long distance communication.

)
A-2 MCW

1
OR

j1'

'
�- RF - I r-
1 1 1111] ,
-� """" "''" '""' '"'""'"" ""'""'"'--j
Rl" CARRIER �-
RECEIVER
1 _1
�
I .
I DETECTOR I I

-
? "y L 1 - _j '"""

502-2 RESTRICTED

R. M, S. T.l. JAN. 30, 1945

Fig. 2 Modulated radiotelegraphy system.

TYPE OF EMISSION: Amplitude modulated radiotelegraphy. A-2 or MCW.

USE: Jamming and emergency communication.

;�
 TYPES OF EMISSION 3

( A-3 oe AMPLITU DE MODULATED RADIOTELEPHONY

- AM

VOICE
I
_!_�·-
RF
TRANSMITTER

I
·
-

��--r-
' �:�:� : .·�_!- I
I

i
RECEIVER �
�
I
L_T
WAVES

\) � I
I DETmOR I

j)) �
L _j
_j
-T-
_
MtCROPHONE

502- 3 RESTRICTED

T.l. JAN.31, 1945

Fig. 3 Amplitude modulated radiotelephony system.

TYPE OF EMISSION: Amplitude modulated radiotelephony. A-� or PHONE.

USE: Short distance· communication.

1 -llilll ll!llll llllllllll!!l:!ll!�!�:������ lill l l�ll l1111 i ll!lilllil���: �!��� r

A-3(FM) oR FREQUENCY MODULATED RADIOTELEPHONY

,- - ,I -�
I R F
,-
I RECEIVER �
I
I TRANSMITTER I

�z��� 1 1 -1
1
L-
, lr=,
, -,---
CRIMI- =NATOc:
R
I

)))l I):::> L·I:��:����: I ;

I - _j

T
MICROPHONE
__j
---r- �

RESTRICTED

R. M, S. T.l. JAN. 31, 1945

F ig. 4 Frequency modulated radiotelephony system.

TYPE OF EMISSION: Frequency modulated radiotelephony. A-3(FM).

USE: Portable communication equipment.

(,
4 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

D EVELOPM ENT OF·A BASIC RADIO TRAN S M ITTER 1

PURPOSE: A communication type transmitter must provi d e an RF signal with good
frequency stability, and with sufficient power to be radiated from an antenna to a
distant receiver.

POWER COCIUA� 1YPE TRANSMITTER

T he os c i l l a t o r tank is dir e c t l y ANTENNA

coupled t o the antenna.

;:k cA
This transmitter is very simple, but POWER I
I
OSCILLATOR
I
has poor frequency stability because I

c hanges in the capacitance C be­ I

A �
502-5 RESTRICTED
tween the antenna and ground detune R M S T.I. FEB 6, 1945

the oscillator tank circuit.

F ig. 5 Power oscillator transmitter.

MASTER OSCIUA� IUYER AMPLIFIER 1YPE TRANSMITTER

A power amp lifier is c onnected be­

tween the oscillator and the antenna.
L

L oose coupling between the two stag ­ MASTER p G POWER

p
)
OSCILLATOR AMPLIFIER
F
es improves frequency stability.
l
The power amplifier inc reases the R. M. S. T. I. FEB. 6, 1945

power output of the transmitter.

Fig. 6 MOPA transmitter.

THREE-STAGE 1YPE TRANSMITTER

An intermediate amplifier is con­

nected between the master oscillator
and the final power amplifier, and
may serve as a frequency mu ltiplier,
a buffer, a power amp l ifier, or a FINAL

POWER
combination of all three. AMPLIFIER

The ad vantages of the t h ree-stage

transmitter are: 502-7 RESTRICTED

R M S T.I. FEB 7, 1945

(1) Good frequency stabilit�
(2) Wide frequency range.
(3) High power output. Fig. 7 Three-stage transmitter.

�
 BAS1C TRANSMITTER 5

(
I
MASTER INTERMEDIATE FINAL
OSCILLATOR POWER AMPLIFIER P ,.c POWER AMPLIFIER

(ELECTRON COUPLED) CLASS C

V2 -860

2 TO 8 MC

see

KEYING
RELAY

1000 v 2.50V 2000 v IOOOV

,_, ,_, ,_, 4-4

LOW VOLTAGE HIGH VOLTAGE

DC GENERATOR DC GENERATOR

'
SHIP S

502.-8 RESTRICTED

R M.S T.l. JAN. 2.3,

(
Fig. 8 A basic transmitter and power supply

1. PUR P OSE: To generate, amplify, and transmit an RF signal.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT CONDITION S;

(a) The primary of the filament transformer is supplied from:
(1) The ship's line if line is AC.
(2) Slip rings on the motor if ship's line is DC.
(b) The master oscillator is of the electron coupled type for good fre­
quency stability over a wide tuning range.
(c) The oscillator and amplifier stages all are operated Class C for good
efficiency.

3. OP ERATION :

(a) The m a s t e r oscillator (MO) generates the RF signal.

(b) The intermediate power amplifier (IPA) isolates the master oscillator
from the final power amplifier to improve frequency stability, and
also doubles the frequency on the u p p er half of the tuning range.
(c) The final power amplifier (PA) delivers 500 watts of RF power output
to the antenna.
(d) Keying is accomplished in the master oscillator stage. While the key
is up, the amplifier tubes are protected by fixed bias.

( 4. RESULTS:
from 2 to 8 me.
This transmitter can produce a 500-watt CW signal at any frequency
6 TRANSMITTER FU�DAMENTALS

POWER SUPPLY
,

FILAMENT
VOLTAGE

�� 2 80Y AC 2��
'"'"

r- -- ---.,
DC MOTOR OC MOTOR
STARTER

STARTING
RESISTANCE

115¥
DC
SHip'S
LINE

502-9 RESTRICTED
[Link].S. T. Z. JAN. 25, 1945
fUNE2

TUNE I
. )

F ig. 9 Power supply of basic transmit ter

1. RJRPOSE: To provide filament, bias, screen and plate voltages.

2. OPERATION OF MOTOR: The 4-horsepower DC motor drives the two DC generators, and
supplies AC to the filament transformer (T-1) from slip rings connected to the
motor armature.

3. OPERA TION OF LOW VOLTAGE DC GENERATOR:

(a) A 1 0 00-volt armature (A-1) and a 250-volt armature (A-2) both are
wound on the same core.
(b) The shunt field is self-excited from the 250-volt DC output.

4. OPERATION OF HIGH VOLTAGE DC GENERATOR:

(a) A 2 000-volt armature (A-3) and a 1 000-volt armature (A-4) both are
wound on the same core.
(b) The shunt field is excited from the 250-volt DC output of the low
voltage generator.
(c) The high voltage DC outputs are adjusted by changing the field excit­
ation, either with GENERATOR FIELD control (R-13) or with TUNE - OPER­
ATE switch (S-1) and R-14.
J
 MASTER OSCILLATOR 7

( '
MASTER OSCILLAT0o

��
o�g
1 "1 INTERMEDIATE 1 ,J� FINAL

POWER AMPLIFIER � POWER AMPLIFIER

"
2!iuh "
!i0-300uuf
4'l-2K 0

0
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"
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115VOC
s���s

RMS. T.I. JAN e9, 1945

( Fig. 10 Master oscillator of basic transmitter.

1. PURPOSE: To generate a stable RF s ignal that can be tuned over a wide range in
frequency.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT CONDITIONS: An 860 tube in an electron-coupled circuit.

3. OPERATION OF GRID-SCREEN GRID CIRCUIT:

(a) Frequency of oscillation is determined by the grid-screen grid tank

circuit (L�l, C-1 and C-2), and ranges from 1 to 2 me.
(b) Grid leak bias is developed across R-1 and C -3.
(c) The filament is maintained above RF ground by L-2 and L-3.
(d) C-4 and C-5 provide an RF return path to the filament.
(e) T-1 supplies 10 volts AC for the filament.
(f) R-2 drops the screen supply to 300 volts.
(g) C-6 grounds the screen for RF.
(h) RF oscillations are electron-coupled to the plate circuit.

4. OPERATION OF THE DOUBLER CIRCUIT:

(a) The plate tank circuit (L-5 and C-7) doubles the frequency to improve
the isolation between grid and plate circuits.
(b) C-8 grounds on� side of the plate tank circuit for RF.
(c) M-1 measures DC plate and screen current.
(d) R-7 drops the plate supply to 700 volts.
(e) The RF choke L-4 connects DC plate voltage to V-1, and keeps RF out

( (f)
of the power supply.
The RF output is coupled from the MD to the next stage through C-10.
8 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

INT E R MED I A TE POWER AMP L IFIER

,
INTERMEDIATE
POWER AMPLIFIER

'" " � fiNAL

.0001
.OOOZ5
° POWER AMPLIFIER

t-------1
"
""

0
IPA TUNING
"
12 TO SMC)
""

"
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0
FILAMENT '"
VOLTAGE
;A
" w "
'" "
" "
"
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LOW VOLTAGE
OC GENERATOR
(5ELF EXCITEO)

502-11 RESTF!ICTEO

JAI4.31,1945

Fig. 11 Intermediate power amplifier of basic transmitter.

c)
1. PURPOSE: To increase the excitation for the final power amplif ier, without
impairing the frequency stability of the master oscillator. Also to increase
the tuning range if desired.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT CONDITIONS: An 860 tube operated Class C.

3, OPERATION:
(a) The IPA may either double or operate straight through.
(b) C-10 couples the output of the MD to the IPA.
(c) C-12 and C-13 provide an RF return to the filament.
(d) Grid leak bias across R-3 adds to the fixed bias from the generator.
(e) L-6 and C-11 prevent loss of RF through the DC bias supply.
(f) M-2 measures DC grid current.
(g) T-1 supplies 10 volts AC for the filament.
(h) M-7 measures filament voltage.
(i) R-4 drops the screen supply to 300 volts.

(j) C-14 grounds the screen for RF.

(k) The plate tank circuit (L-8 and C-15) tunes from 2 to 8 me.

(1) M-3 measures DC plate current.

(m) C-16 grounds one side of the plate tank circuit for RF.
(n) L-7 prevents RF from reaching the high v o l t a g e DC power supply.
(o) The RF output of the IPA is coupled to the next stage through C-17.
�
 FINAL POWER AMPLIFIER 9

f
0
ANTENNA

"
"'
2.5ro0
.0002.5

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PA TUNING
ANTENHA

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([Link])
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CAPACITOR
.002

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2.�K

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FILAMENT
VOLTAGE

C27
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DO GENERATOR
(SELF·HOITED)

( 50Z-12

RM S.
RESTRICTED

TI FEB 6, IH5

Fig. 12 Fi n a l power a m p li f i er o f b a s i c tr a n s mi t t er.

1, PURPOSE: To increase the RF power output of the transmitter to 500 watts.

2. GENERAL C IRCU IT CONDITIONS: An 861 tube operated Class C.

3. OPERATICN:
(a) The final power amplifier (PA) always operates straight through for
good efficiency.
(b) C�17 couples the RF output from the IPA to the final PA.
(c) C-19 and C�20 provide an RF return path to the filament.
(d) Grid leak bias across R�5 adds to the fixed bias from the g enerator.
(e) L-9 and C-18 prevent loss of RF through the DC bias supply.
(f) M-4 measures DC grid current.
(g) T-1 supplies 11 volts AC for the filament.
(h) R-6 drops the screen supply to 500 volts.
(i) C�21 grounds the screen for RF.
(j ) The plate tank circuit (L-11 and C-22) tunes from 2 to 8 me.
(k) The RF choke L�10 keeps RF out of the high voltage DC power supply.
(1) M-5 measures DC plate current.
(m) C-24 couples the RF output from the PA to the antenna.
( (n) L-12 and C-25 tune the antenna circuit to resonance.
(o) M-6 measures the RF antenna current.
�------ ---- �--- ---� ----- -----�
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0

.,
c::
:z:
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l>'
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PA PLAT£
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cn

115 v

!102-13 RESTRICTED .
TUNE l
RM S JANUARY 5,

Fig. 13 Basic transmitter, schematic diagram, showing frequency meter connection .

..
f""· � �.

STARTI NG THE TRANSMITTER 11. Adjust DOUBLER TUNING (C-7) for a peak in IPA grid
current (M-2).
1. Start the motor-generator.
TUNING THE INTERMEDI ATE POWER AMPLIFI ER
2. Adjust FILAMENT VOLTAGE (R-8) for 10 v. on the fil­
ament voltmeter (M-7). 12. Place the tune-operate switch (S-1) in TUNE 2.

3. Place the tune-operate switch (S-1) in OPERATE. Do 13. Adjust IPA TUNING (C-15) for a dip in IPA plate
not close the key! current (M-3), or for a peak in PA grid current
(M-4). Watch the PA plate current (M - 5 ) , and if
4, Adjust GENERATOR FIELD (R-13) for 3,000 v. on the it exceeds 200 ma. , stop tuning the IPA and adjust
plate voltmeter (M-10). P A TUNING (C-22) for a dip in PA plate current
(M-5). Finish tuning the IPA. -t
5. Place the tune-operate switch (S-1) in TUNE 1. c:
:z
TUN I NG THE FINAL POWER AMPLIFIER
CONNEC T I N G THE F REQUENCY M E TER z:
G')
14. Adjust PA TUNING (C-22) for a dip in PA plate cur­
6. Connect the frequency meter CLR or LM ) to the MO rent (M-5). l>
plate circuit.
-t
TUNING THE ANTENNA CIRCUIT
:::0
7. Set the LR or LM to the exact frequency required at l>
the output of the MO . I f necessary, divide the 15. I ncrease ANTENNA COUPLING (C-24) for about a 10% z:
en
transmitter output frequency by 2 until it is with­ rise in PA plate current (M-5). l:
in the 2 to 4 me . range of the MO.
16, Adjust ANTENNA TUNING INin::TANCE (L-12, coarse) and -t
-t
8. Set all transmitter tuning controls approximately ANTENNA TUNINGCAPA CITOR(C-25,vernier) for a peak 1'1'1
to the correct frequency with the aid of tuning in PA plate current (M-5). :::0
charts and curves in the instruction book. Set
.ANI»iNA <XlJPLING (C-24) to m inimwn. 17. R eadjust PA TUNING (C-22) for a dip in PA plate
current (M-5),
TUNI N G THE M ASTER OS C I L L ATO R
18, Repeat steps 15, 16 and 17 as many times as neces­
9. H old the test key closed only during tuning adjust­ s ary to obtain about 200 rna. ( 2/3 maxi m u m ) PA
ments. plate current (M- 5).

10, Adjust MP TUNING (L-1) for zero beat in the output 19, Place the tune-operate switch (S-1) in OPERATE,
of the frequency meter. and repeat steps 15, 16 and 17 to obtain not more
than 300 rna. of PA plate current (M-5 ) for full
power output.
.....
....
12 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

KEYING RADIOTELEGRAPH TRANSMITTERS

�

DDT

111 l \1 1 1 1�
NORMAL KEYING: Clear-cut and distinct,

KEYING TAILS: A gradual reduction in RF

output after the key is opened, instead of

�ll l l l l !l l l l l l l l l l il li·�l l l l l il l'

the desired abrupt drop to zero.

EACKWAVE: Incomplete blocking of one or

more of the transmitter stages while the
key is up.

l l l \il l l l i l l l l il l l il l li!l l li l l l [j l il l i l l !il l i l l llllll l\i l li l l l !l l l KEY CLICKS: Abnormally high power applied
to the antenna at the instant the key is
first closed, and again when the key i s
opened. Key clicks are often caused b y
arcing at the keying contacts.

RESTRICTED

T.t. FEB. Z, 1945

' ')·
.,,

Fi g. 14 K e y i n g w a v ef orms.

1. PURPOSE: To control the RF output from a transmitter s o intelligence in the

form of dots and dashes will be transmitted.

2. 1RANSMITTER KEYING �IREMENTS:

(a) The keying must be p ositive. That is, the signal at the distant
receiver must be clear-cut and distinct. There should be no tails,
backwave or key clicks.
(b) The transmitter should have good frequency stability when keyed so
the signal will not be 'bloopy' or 'chirpy'.
(c) The keying system must be capable of operating at the required speed.
Hand keying seldom exceeds 20 words per minute, but automatic keying
heads operate up to several hundred words per minute.
(1) Up to 100 words per minute, the m e c h anical action of a
keying relay is satisfactory.
(2) A bo v e 100 words per minute, vacuum tube keying systems
should be used.
(d) The transmitter should �onsume as little power as possible while the
key is up.
(e) All stages that are not keyed must have protective fixed bias while
the key is up.
�
 CENTER TAP KEYING 13

��\:.l>.'"i\\l'i. 'i'\'l..'r_'i:) �\I>.S

-- -
J
r----- - --KEYING
- ;l

! "��

'--}J�"
502-15 RESTRICTED

R MS. T I FEB. 7, 1945

( Fig. 15 Center t a p key ing c i rc u it similar to that of TBK tra n s m itters.

1. GENERAL CIRCUIT CONDITIONS: The amplifier stages are biased at or beyond cutoff
without RF excitation.

2. OPERATION:
(a) When the key is closed the keying relay is energized.
(b) The keying relay contacts close, completing a DC path from the plate
power supply through the center tap on the filament transformer to
the filament of the master oscillator.
(c) Oscillations start in the MO, and are amplified by the IPA and PA.
(d) When the key is opened the keying relay is de-energized.
(e) The relay contacts open, breaking the DC path to the master oscil­
lator filament center tap.
(f) Oscillations stop in the MO, thus removing RF excitation from the
IPA and PA.
(g) Fixed bias on the IPA and PA reduces plate current and RF output to
zero.

3, RESULTS:

(a) Positive keying because the master oscillator is keyed.

(b) Satisfactory keying at speeds up to 100 words per minute.

(c) Key clicks will occur unles s a key click filter is used. Typical
filters of this type are explained in Course 503-504.

(
14 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

BLOCKED GRID KEYING ,

Rl
OOK

+12.00 'J

R4

I
R5
37.5K

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ry
RELAY

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502-16 RESTRICTED

R.M.S. T.I. FEB. 8, 1945

Fig. 16 Blocked grid keying circuit similar to that of TAJ transmitters.

1 • GENERAL CIRCUIT al'I/DITI(IIJS:

(a) The amplifier stages are biased beyond cutoff without RF excitation.
(b) Additional bias across R-6 is high enough to block all stages when
the key is open.

2• OPERATI(IIJ:
(a) When the key is closed, the keying relay is energized.
(b) The relay contacts short out the blocking bias across R-6, grounding
the common filament return of all stages.
(c) RF oscillations start in the MO and are amplified by the IPA and PA.
(d) If the e mission selector switch is in MCW position, AF oscillations
start in the audio oscillator (AO), tone modulating the RF.
(e) When the key is opened, the keying relay is de-energized.
(f) With the relay contacts open, bleeder current develops blocking bias
across R-6, raising all filaments to a high positive potential with
respect to the grids.
(g) This makes the grids very negative with respect to the filaments,
stopping the output from all stages.

3. RESULTS: Positive keying because all stages are keyed simultaneously. Other·
wise the results are the same as in center tap keying.
�a
 15
PRIMARY KEYING

LOW VOLTAGE
RECTIFIER

.....---....
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VI-5Z3 "

-�,, -
Rl
25K

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HIGH VOLTAGE
TO ALL
TRANSMITTER
RECTIFIER
FILAMENTS

r---- -,

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!(
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R I
I I

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ql L ____ ....J
'"

( DC
r
502- 17 RE:STRICTED

R. M.S. T. I. FEB. 12, 1945

Fig. 17 Plate transformer primary keying similar to that in TBW transmitters.

1. GENERAL CIRCUIT CONDITIONS:

(a) High frequency (800 -cycle) AC power supply minimizes the transformer
inductance and filter capacity necessary.
(b) The filament transformer is energized continuously.

2. OPERATION:
(a) When the key is closed, the keying relay contacts connect the pri­
maries of both rectifier plate transformers to the 800-cycl e li ne.
(b) The power supply rectifiers deliver DC to the plates of the trans•
mitter tubes, causing the transmitter to operate.
(c) When the key is open, the keying relay contacts disconnect the pri­
maries of fhe power supply rectifiers.

3. RES ULTS:

(a) Satisfactory keying at hand speeds in portable and aircraft equipment

( b) The circuit is not adaptable to high speed keying because of the
smoothing action of the power transformers and fil ter cir cuits .
(c) Cannot be used on h igh powere d transmitters because of t he h igh

�' p rimary currents.

16
TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

GRID lEAK [Link] ·�

IPA

"
IOK R3
IOK

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IK 100...1"1...

l .�:

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502:- 18 RESTRICTED

R.M.S. T. I. FES. 10, 194!5

F ig. 18 �id leak keying s imila r to that in TBW transmitters.

1. GENERAL CIRCUIT CCN>ITICNS:

(a) Cutoff fixed bias on the PA stage.
(b) Self-bias on the keyed stages for p rotection of tu bes if RF excita­
tion fails. (Fixed b ia s can not be used on these stages).

2. [Link]:
(a) When the key is c los ed , the keying relay contacts connect the grid
return of the MO and IPA to ground.
(b) Osc illations start in the MO and are am plified by the IPA a nd PA.
(c) When the key is open, the keying relay contacts open, a nd grid cur-
rent charges C-1 n egative on the grid side.
(d) The MO is b locked and oscillations stop.
(e) T he t r a ns m itter will stay off unti l the cha rge on C-1 leaks o f f
through stray leakage paths.

3. RESULTS: This s ystem of keying is satisfactory only when used in conjunction

with s om e other s yst em s uch a s primary keying, because once the charge on C-1
leaks off, the RF ca rrier com es on again automatica lly unless power is removed
from the tubes.
�
 17
VACUUM TUBE KEYING

(
"
"

-27511 �

..

KEYER
TUBE

"
'"
1�+1651/
�
·
3
-5011

"

502-!9 RESTRICTED

R.M.S. T. I. fEB. 9, 1945

Fig. 19 Vacuum tube keying si milar to that in TBK transmitt ers.

( 1• GE'NERAL CIRCUIT COODITICNS:

(a) Cutoff fixed bias on the I PA and PA stages.
(b) Keyer tube normally conducting with zero bias (key open).
(c) MO circuit adjusted so that low s creen voltage stops osci llations.
( d) Either a manual key or an automatic keying head may be connected
directly in the keyer tube grid circuit without a relay.

2. OPERAT ION:
(a) When the key is up, plate current of the zero biased keyer tube flows
through R-2, dropping the MO screen voltag e to a low value and thus
preventing oscillations.
(b) The keyer tube continues t o conduct p � ate current even though its
plate voltage is low •
•

(c) When the key is closed, a negative voltage applied to the grid of the
keyer tube stops its plate current.
(d) The 1\1:) screen voltage rises to the normal value because no keyer tube
plate current flows through R-2.
(e) Oscillations start in the M0 and are amplified by the IPA and PA.

3. RESULTS:
(a) The instantaneous response of a vacuum tube keyer permits k eying
speeds up to 500 words per minute by the use of a keying head.
(b) No current flow is broken by the keying contacts, thus reducing k e y
clicks and preventing the keying contacts from burning.
(c) Backwave will result if the keyer tube plate cur rent does not drop
(. " the MO screen voltage low enough to completely block oscillations.
 18 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

MODU LATION OF RF TRANSMITTERS ,

..

Sound waves, code or other impulses which can not be transmitted directly through
space for long distances are combined with an RF signal in the transmitter. The
entire combination is radiated as an electromagnetic wave from the transmitting
antenna. The modulation impulses are separated from the RF 'C arrier' wave by the
demodulator in the receiver, and the original intelligence is reproduced.

r
�
VOICE MODULATED RF
*

1
,------
TRANSMITTER
--- ,
CEIVER�
I
----, It}
�I I
c __ h r-L= __ .J
50Z-20 RESTRICTEO

R.M.S. T. J:. FEB. 15, 1945

Fig. 20 Basic system of communication by voice modulated RF.

)
1. PURPOSE OF MODULATION: To vary the RF output of a transmitter according to
intelligence to be transmitted.

2. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Voice modulation is indicated in Fig. 20, but the modula­
tion also may be code, music or picture impulses.

3. <FERATION:
(a) The microphone converts sound waves into electrical impulses.
(b) The modulator amplifies the audio frequencies and feeds them to the
RF transmitter.
(c) The RF output· of the transmitter varies according to the sound waves,
•
causing a modulated RF wave to appear at the antenna.
(d ) Th e modulated RF wave is radiated from the transmitter antenna to a
distant receiver, becoming weaker with increased distance.
(e) The signal is picked up by the receiving antenna.
(f) The teceiver amplifies the weak RF signal, and demodulates it to re·
produce the audio frequencies.
(g) The AF signal is further amplified and fed to the phones.
(h) The phones convert the AF electrical variations to sound waves that

are practically identical to those which actuated the microphone at

the transmitting station.

4, RESULTS: I ntelligence is transmitted through space without wires between trans­

mitter and receiver. �
 TYPES OF MODULATION 19

( 1. AMPLITUDE MODULATICl-1: The

intelligence to be trans­
m itted causes the amplitude
of the radiated wave to var�
If the envelope variations
of the modulated wave exact­
ly reproduce the original
variations in sound pressure,
light intensity or code
c h a r a ct e r s, these varia­

..
1
tions are transmitted with­
out distortion. 0

TIME
-
502-21 RESTRICTED

AM is used throu ghout the R.M.S, T,l. FEB. 2, 194�

radio spectrum, but princi­

p ally below the VHF band.
Fig. 21 Amplitude modulation.

2. FREQUENCY MODULATION: The

intelligence to be trans­
mitted causes not the ampli­
tude but the frequency of
the radiated wave to vary in
accordance with the intelli­ �1�1
( gence to be transmitted.

FM is used p r incip ally in

the VHF band.

1 0

�02 -
R. M.S.
22

T,l,
RESTRICTED

FEB. 2, 19c45
TIME
-

Fig. 22 Frequency modulation.

3. PHASE MODULATION: The phase relations between the original RF and the radiated
wave are varied according to the intelligence to be transmitted. This type of
modulation is seld om used because it requires an excessively wide frequency
band.

(
20 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

DETERMIN ING PERCENTAGE OF MODULA T I ON �

�- -- -----
-O-SCILLOSCOPE - --,i
I
I
--- I

I I
..
_,_ T
AMPLITUDE
MODULATED
WAVE FROM
TRANSMITTER
I Em.o Emax

-- _l
I

I
I

1, -
AF
I
I
INTERNAL
I

'6
A F SYNC
VOLTAGE FROM

! )
MODULATOR

'
/
I
swm

II

L_ j
• +

____________

502:-23 RESTRlCTEO

R, M.S. T.l. FEB. 5, 194!5

Fig. 23 Typical hookup for determining the percentage of modulation of an amplitude

modulated RF wave.

1. GENERAL CIRCUIT CONDITIONS:

(a) A small amount of amplitude modulated RF is coupled from the trans­
�
mitter output to the vertical deflection plates of the oscilloscope.
( b) The sweep frequency is approximately half the modulation frequency.

2. CALCllLATION OF IDDULATION PERCENTACE:

(a) Count the greatest n umber of s quares covered vertically by the mod­
ulation envelope, and let that equal E
max'
(b) Count the least n umber of s quares covered vertically by the modula­
tion envelope, and let that equal E '
min
(c) Percentage of modulation = 100 times the modulation index M, where

E max - E m1n
.

M ·�
E Emin
max +
 COMPONENTS OF AN AMPLITUDE MODULATED WAVE 21

(
Audio frequency intelligence signal used to
10,000 CPS
modulate the RF signal in the transmitter.

., A 100% modulated RF wave as it leaves the

antenna. This wave is a c o mbi n a t i o n of
several components, all of which are radio

frequency waves.

The CARRIER component of the output wave is

constant in both amplitude and frequency.

( The amplitude is equal to the average amp­

litude of the modulated wave.

The UPPER SIDE BAND is an additional compo­

' nent produced when the original RF wave is

''o''�ll l l l l l l l l l lil l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l ll l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l � modulated. The amplitude is equal to half

t he carrier amplitude. The frequency is

the sum of the carrier frequency and the AF

..
modulation frequency.

The LO��R SIDE BAND is another c o m p onent

produced when the original RF wave is mod­

''if1'''11111111111111111il l llllll llllll ll ll ll l lllll l lllllllllllllllllllllllll[- ulated. The amplitude is equal to half the
carrier amplitude. The frequency is the
difference between the carrier frequency
!02- 24 RESTRICTED
and the AF modulation frequency.
R. M.S. T.l. FEB. !, 114!

�, Fig. 24 Components of an amplitude modulated w ave.

22 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

POWER RELATIONS IN AN AMPLITUDE MODULATED WAVE

�

A F
MODULATION 0�------�r
VOLTAGE

EQUAL TO
J-ool1
l,_--- CYCLE OF A F I CYCLE OF AF --·· 1

I
I
+2--< I

::�unuuunu�11� u�l �l�

•
R F
ANTENNA
VOLTAGE """"'"�- . ...

-2-1

¥"
4.

3.5 Jffi
3.
R F
ANTENNA 2.5
POWER
2.
,c·)·
I.5
/. CARRIER POWER .,
I. -

.5 -
]�OUG�:5��
0 - IIIIIII III

�r
UNMODULATED 100%
CARRIER WAVE MODULATED WAVE --�
!j I AREA: 20 SQUARES AREA : 30 SQUARES
c I T I ME

502 - 25 RESTRICTED

R. M.S. T.l. FEB. 6, 1945

Fig. 25 Power relations in an amplitude modulated wave.

1. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Fig. 25 shows both an unmodulated carrier wave and a 100%
modulated wave for comparison.

2. POWER RELATIONS:
(a) Power is proportional to the square of the voltage. p =.!2
R
(b) Crest power is four times carrier power.
(c) Trough power is zero.

(d) Average power in the m o d u lated wave is 5 0% g r e a t e r t h a n carrier

power, as shown in Fig. 25 by a comparison of the areas under the
curves of antenna power.

·�
 DETERMINING RF CARRIER POWER 23

RF CURRENT IN

DUMMY ANTENNA

I0• lOA

.---� Jr-------,
�
FINAL

k
" ANTENNA DUMMY
COUPLING R, ,[Link]
.., eon. RESI!TOI't

I
POWE'I AMPLIFIER 1 5""-
T
.. I

CARRIER POWER
Pc � I0 2 Ru
2
.. 10 X 5

� 500 WATTS

(
ON

OFF

50 2- 2e RESTRICTEO

R.M.S. T. I. FEB. 15, 1945

Fig. 26 Typical hookup for d e termining RF carrier power.

1. CARRIER PaVER: p = I 2 R where

c a a

(a) P is carrier power.

c
(b) 18 is dummy antenna current.
(c) R is dummy antenna resistance.
a

2. EXAMPLE: In Fig. 26,

(a) Dummy antenna current is 10 amperes.

(b) Du� antenna resistance is 5 ohms.

(c) Carrier power P = 10 x 10 x 5 = 500 watts.
c
(
 24 TRANSMITTER fUNDAMENTALS

SIDE BAND POWER IN AN Al\lPLITUDE MODULATED WAVE ��

IF ANTENNA RESISTANCE IS 10 OHMS
CARRIER
+ 100 ---,�------
-�----��-
PEAK
VOLTAGE
RM S
VOLTAGE
p:i 2
POWER
IN WATTS
+50

(7 0.71�:
0 100 70.7 500
10
-50

-100 --------�--��--�L---�L--

If

UPPER SIDE BAND

+50

0 1\ T\ 7\- /\ -----r\ 50 35.4

2
(35.4) = 125

\1 \ 1 \/ \/ \7
10
-50

LOWER SIDE BAND

+50

0 T\ /'\ /'\ 50 35.4

�0
(3 4)
2
= 125

- 50 v---v -v
_)
502
�r
�
0
>

- 27
TIME

RESTRICTED
TOTAL
CARRIER
POWER IN
AND SIDEBANDS
750

I
R. M.S. T.l. FEB. 7, 1945

Fig. 27 Components of a modulated wave, [Link] side band power.

1. PUPJ>OSE: To determine the side band power in an amplitude modulated wave for

any percentage of modulation.

2. GENERAL crnDITICNS:
(a) Fig. 27 shows side band power for 100% modulation.
(b) For percentages of modulation other than 100%, side band power varies
as the square of the side band voltage.

2
M
3. lJPPffi SIDE BAND roWER: USBP = P where
c
4
(a) M "' modulation factor.
(b) Pc = carrier power.

2
M
4. IDWF� SIDE BAND POWER: LSBP = P where the units are the same.
c
4
2
M
5 . T0rAL SIDE BAl'\iD roWER: SBP P where the units are the same.

;)
2 c
.
 CHANGE IN ANTENNA CURRENT WITH AMPLITUDE MODULATION 2s

1• ANTENNA OJRRENf
( WffiiCUI' W!CDULATICN:

v&.
I =\
o
Ra

Where
I is RF carrier current ,
0
is carrier power,
PC
R is antenna resistance.
a h
'

r--
I �
MODULATOR
'
\ OFF

502

R.M.S.
- 26

T I
R E STRICTED

FEB. 15, 1945

Fig. 28 RF transmitter without modula tion.

2. ANrENNA OJRRENr
WI1H MODULATICN:

F
fJ I,m
I I
am o
=

( Where
I is RF antenna current
am
with modulation ,
10 is .RF carrier current,
M is modulation fa ctor. e OFF

502-29 RESTRICTED
R.M.S. T. T.. FEB. 15, 1945

Fig. 29 RF transmitter with modulation.

3. Al'ITENNA OJRRENr INCREASE WITH 100% MOIXJIATION:

(a) I
BP1
I
0
F
(b) At 100% modulation, I
am
I
0
-�
�2 Io {CS I x 1. 22S.
.'" 0

4. RESill�T: When 100% sinusoidal modulation is applied to an RF t ransmi tte r , t he

antenna current is 22.5% greater than w hen no modulation is applied.

(
26 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

PL ATE MODULATED AMPLI FIER ·�

FINAL R F POWER AMPLIFIER

� COUPLING
ACITOR

� �----.---��--i
GRID
LEAK

r RF
BYPASS
NEUTRALIZING

1 BY
R F
PASS
II

E., +I

AF MODULATOR

...

502 - 30 RESTRICTED

FEB. 14, 1945

Fig· 30 Plate mo d u l a te d amp l i f i er.

")··
._,/

1. GFNERAL CIRCUIT ffiNDITI<NS:

(a) RF power amplifier (V-1) is operated Class C.
(b) AF modulator (V-2 and V-3) is operated push pul l Class B.

2. OPERATI(]'.!:
(a) The RF power amp lifier (V-1) amplifies the RF excitation applied to
its g rid, develo ping an RF voltage across the plate tank circui t .
(b) An RF voltage i s induced i n the antenna circuit.
(c) The modulator (V-2 and V-3) amplifies the AF voltage applied to its
grids, developing an AF voltage in the modulator plate circuit.
(d) An AF modulation voltage E is induced in the secondary of the mod ­
m
ulation transformer.
(e) T he AF modul ation voltage E is in series with the DC plate sup ply
m
voltage � of the RF power amplifier (V-1).
b
(f) As E swings in the positive direction, plate voltage of the PA (V-1)
m
increases, causing plate current and RF po w er output to increase.

(g) As E swings in the negative direction, plate voltage of the� (V-1)

m
decrease s, causing plate current and RF power output to dec rease.

3. RESULTS: An AF signal in the modulator causes the RF power output of the PA to

vary ac cording to the intelligence to be transmit ted. The l inearity of plate
modulation is good, and the plate efficiency of the PA is from 60 to 80 percent.
�
 PLATE MODULATED AMPLIFIER 27

( '

RF plate current of the nor mal C lass C

amplifier w ith no modulation app lied.
ib
Fach sharp pulse of plate current is of
approximately 150° duration and occurs a t
!!I!J!l!lll!l!!!lll!!!ll!!!ll!!ll!lllll!llll!!ll!!l!llllllllllll!lll!!!!!ll!!l!ll!!!!!!!lj!!l
Q an RF rate .

�L
Modulated plate supply voltage o f RF am p­

lifier with 1 00% modulation. The plate

su pply volta ge is varied between twic e

0· �- normal on positive modulation peaks and

zero on negative peaks.

RF plate current of 100% modulated Class C

amplifier. The sharp pulses of RF plate

( current follow the AF waveform of the ap­

plied plate voltage.
I!I!I!!!!!!!!!!I!II!!I!!II!!II!!!J!!!l!II!IIJ!I!II!!!!I!IIII!c c!lll!!l!!!!!!!l!!l!!!!!i
Q

���
I Illi!l
e tank
RF voltage developed across LC tank. The

111
flywheel effect of the tuned tank circuit

�� � � � � · -·� � � � 1 � � �
carries over the portion of each RF cycle

1!,.1 :
HI�Ul�IllIl/1 l l li: il lil� ���4.
.ll ,:iilill
in which no plate current
in the remainder of the modulate d
flows,

The sam e waveform appears in the antenna

cir c u i t c ou p l e d to the
filling

t a n k.
wave.

II ""'
502- 31 RESTRICTED
R.M.S. T.l. FEB. 7, 1945

\ Fig. 31 Wave forms of plate modulated amplifier.

28 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

TURNS RATIO OF MODULATION TRANSFORMER ·�

MODULATION

��
TRANSFORMER

�
/"·011
MODULAT10
TRANSFORME .::_3
p s P S
� Ebb EQUIVALENT =§: E �b
RESISTANCE OF
PA STAGE
� REFLECTED SA<:K
Ebb
/l '• FROM SECONDARY
---­
"....T'-....1:.\\<;)"
502-32 RESTRICT ED 502-33 RESTRICTED 502·34 REST RICTED
R.M.$. T.t, F£8.16, 1945 R.M.S. T.l. [Link], 1945 R.M.S. T.l. FE8.18, 1146

Fig. 32 Normal RF Fig. 33 Shunting action Fig. 34 Equivalent cir­ •

amplifier. of RF amplifier across cuit of load on modula­

modulation transformer. tion transformer.

PUSH PULL
MODULATOR

TURNS
RATIO
N,.2:1
DC RESISTANCE
REFLECTED OF PA S TAG E
PLATE-TO- PLATE '·
LOAD
MODULATOR
ON
TUBES
2
�
'
Rp
R
b
-�
R "'R N
p b
:§: Ebb

),
'

R.M.S, T.I. FEB.I7, 1945

Fig. 35 Load on modu lation transformer.

1. PURPOSE: To match the impedance between primary and secondary of a modulation

transformer to obtain maximum undistorted power output.

v=r
N where N is the number of turns in the primary winding,
p p
2. TIJRNS RATIO N and N is the number of turns in the secondary winding.
s
N
s

3. REQUIRED TURNS RATIO = where R

ance l a:a d
is the rated plate-to-plate resist-

of the modulator tu�es, and R

b is
the DC resistance of the RF power amplifier.

4. EXAMPL�: If the rated load R for the modulator tubes is 40,000 ohms, the DC

=
P
plate voltage of the RF amplifier is 3,000 volts, and the DC plate current of
the RF amplifier is 300 ma, then R = 3,000 I .3 10,000 ohms.
b

= IT= �=
40,000

The required turns ratio "\ 2, or a 2:1 step-down.

v R
b
10,000
·�
 AF POWER REQUIRED FROM MODULATOR FOR PLATE MODULATION 29

(
AMPLITUDE
MODULATED R F WAVE

p A

...
MODUL-ATED
PA PLATE SUPPLY VOLTAGE

AF POWER Pm FOR

PLATE MODULATION

E,

'
0- _ l _ - - - Pm
= (.707 E m I
---
,,

= '
Em
E,
R
b
=
J;; A F MODULATION VOLTAGE
2(*}

Em '
Em
= -- E i
b b
Em
_ _ _ _L ,
___ _ _ _
,
"•

( - "
- -z-
'
Eb Ib

-=-
Ebb
II �

RESTRICTED

FFA A,
r-

Fig. 36 AF power required from modulat or.

where Pm is the AF modulation power, M is the

M2
1. GENERAL FO�: pm "'- - Eb1b modulation factor, Eb is the DC plate voltage
2 of the PA, and lb is the DC plate current of
the modulated stage (PA).

M2 ( 1. 0)
2 Eb1b
2. AF POWER FOR 100% [Link] [Link]: p
Eb1b :: Eb1b
m
2 2 2
or one-half the DC plate power inp ut to the modulated stage (PA).

3. EXAMPlE: If an RF power amplifier has OC plate voltage of 3,000 v., and DC

plate current of 300 rna. , how much AF power will be required to pla te modulate

the stage 1 00%?

M2 ( 1. 0)
2 X 3,000 X .3 900
pm -­
Eb1b :: 450 watts.

\
2 2 2
30 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

ADJUSTMENT OF PLATE MODULATED AMPLIFIER ·.,

. '"'

PA

RF EXCITATION

' RF
0 A NTENNA
CURRENT

MODULATION

91L.' DC !>LATE CURRENT

...
lb

! ...
502-37
R.M.S.
RESTRICTED
T. 1. FEB. 16, 1945
)
'

Fig. 37 Adjustment of plate modulated amplifier.

1. PURPOSE: To cause the RF amplifier (PA) to be modulated 100%.

2. GENERAL CIK:UIT CXX'IDI TICNS: The transmi tter is tuned an d oper atin g.

3 • AD]USTMENI'S:
(a) Adjust ANTENNA COUPLING until rated DC plat e current flows. This
places the correct load on the modulator.
(b) Apply sinusoidal modulation and increase AF GAIN o f modulator until
DC plate current just begins to change. This setting corresponds to
10 0 % modulation. The RF antenna current should be 22.5% greater than
it was with no modulation.
(c) If DC plate current decreases as AF GAIN is increased, one or more of
the following adjustments will be necessary:
(1) Adjust ANTENNA COUPLING so the PA operates into the correct
plate imped ance.
( 2) Replace weak PA tube. Filament emission may be insuffi­
cient to supply modulation peaks.
(3) Increase RF EXCITATICN to the PA stage.
(4) Change PA grid bias voltage.
(d) If DC plate current increases on modulation peaks, ov ermodulation
exists. Reduce AF GAIN of the modulator. ..)
.
 PLATE MODULATION OF TETRODES AND PENTODES 31

� CO PL NG
UI 0 �--,0"------,
� �----�---+
I '
PA TUNING

ANTENNA
COUPLING
0
ANTENNA
TUNING

'" +
! I
"
BY PASS

( MODULATION
CHOKE

MODULATION

,,.

50Z - 38 RESTRICTED

T.l. FEB. 16, 1945

Fig. 38 Plate modulation of a screen grid tube.

1. OPE:RATION: Same as for a plate modulated triode except for the f ollowing:
(a) No neutralization is required because of the shielding action of the
screen grid of the PA tube.
(b) In screen grid tubes, plate current is relatively independent o f
plate volt age. Thus the screen grid must b e modulated i n addition to

the plate to prevent distortion. Screen modulation voltage is taken

from a tap on the modulation transformer because the screen requires
less power than the plate.

2. RESL1LT: Simultaneous modulation of both the plate and the screen circuits per­
mits 100% modulation of t etrodes and pentodes without exces sive distor tion.

(
32 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

A TYPICAL NAVY MODULATOR UNI T -�

�-----------------�
TBM �QO-WATT RF TRANSMITTER I

�I�
L ____________ _

MODULATOR fC:i"
STAGE

PUSH PUL�
nl
���� .;:;:;�ml"
S03'S
aAL �

C420
CLASS � ..

II',W
·:�:=11 •

IN PARALLEL
WITH TEST
KEY IN RF

�02-3g RESTRICTED
RMS T> JA• I2,l···

Fig. 39 TEM modulator unit, block diagram.

1. PURPOSE: To plate modulate a 500-watt RF transmitter.

2. AMPLIFIER STAGES: Three stages of push-pull transformer coupled audio amplifi­

c ation provide a maximum of 400 watts AF power for modulating the transmitter.
�:>
3. AUXILIARY CIROJITS:
(a) a::.MffiESSOR (V-409A ) 1/2 25Z5:
(1) Rectifies part of the driver AF output to be used as g ain­
controlling bias for the speech amplifier.

(b) LIMITER (V-409B) 1/2 25Z5:

(1) 7 volts fixed bias between cathode and plate permits opera­
tion on AF signal peaks only. Otherwise the limiter action
is the same as that of the compressor.

•
(c) MODULATION LIMITER (V-4Q7) 1616 high voltage diode:
( 1) Prevents overmodulation. 2,700 volts fixed bias between
c athode and p l ate prevents the modulation limiter from
conducting until modulation exceeds 100%.

(d) AUDIO OSCILLATOR: For MCW operation, the speech amplifier is discon­
nected and the driver (V-403 and V-404) is converted into an audio
oscillator through an 8 00-cycle band pass feedback circuit.

(e ) VOICE RELAY (K-401) and VOICE RELAY ruBE (V-408) 807:

( 1) Automatically turns on the RF carrier whenever an AF Signal
is fed to the modulator, and turns off the RF carrier when
no AF signal is ·present.. ;J
 TBM SPEECH AMPLIFIER 33

( SPEECH AMPLiFIER

lllit�ll'l
DRIVER MODULATOR

AUDIO OSCILLATOR STAGE

V40.3 -\1404
'
PUSI-I PULLS07 S PUSH PUI.l60:5'S

'if ...____.
....
•

I
(J,t.\"" �\)1io.\'\\\'J\.. \;',\1>,'2,

�MANUAL

R M
502-40
S T. I JAN
RESTRICTED
1.3, 1945

( Fi g . 40 TBM speech a m p l if i e r .

1. PURPOSE: To amplify the AF voltage from the microphone.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT <Xl'IDITICNS:

(a) Class A voltage amplifier.
(b) Push-pull transformer coupled.
(c) Variable-MV tubes (6D6's).
(d ) Pl ates are grounded. All other e lements negative with respect to
OC ground.

3. OPERATION:
• (a) AF current from the microphone flows through the primary of the mic­
rophone transformer (T-401) , inducing AF voltage in the secondary.
(b) The amount of AF voltage fed to the primary of T-402 is controlled by
the SPEECH GAIN attenu ator (R-401).
(c) The AF voltage is c o u p l e d to the grids of the speech ampli fier
through T-402.
(d) The AF voltage is amplified sufficiently by the speech amplifier to
excite the grids of the driver stage.
(e) In MANUAL position of the GAIN switch (S-402), the speech amplifier
grids are bi ased 5 v o l ts n e g a tive by applyi n g -270 v o l ts to the
cathodes and -275 volts to the grids.
(f) In AUTOMATIC position of the GAIN switch (S-402), the speech ampli­

� fier grid bias is con tro l le d by the compressor (V-409A)

limiter {V-409B).
a n d the
34 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

TBM DRIVER - AUDIO OSCILLATOR ,�

DRIVER- AUDIO OSCILLATOR

MODULATOR
SPEECH STAGE
AMPLIFIER
PUSH PULL 60�'5

1<5lpe�SH
'
PUL.'- 606 5 fl BALANCED PtNTODES

ZERO BIASED
CLASSB

0 �

i
S\1..\" \;,\:1"\"'-\:1\.- �\;.<;,

�"
MAtHIA\.
'"

COMPRESSOI<

tl'.sZS

502-41 RESTI'IICTI':O

R.M S T.l:. JAN. 16, 1945

Fig. 41 TBM dr i v e r-au d i o o s c i l l a t o r.

1. PURPOSES:
:)
(a) For VOICE operation, to provide power amplification of the speech
signal from the speech amplifier.
(b) For MCW operation, to generate an 800-cycle signal.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT cniDITirnS:

(a) Class AB power amplifier.
(b) Push-pull transformer coupled.
(c) Plate and screen are grounded. All other elements negative with
respect to DC ground.

3. OPERATIOO AS A IlUVER:
•
(a) The AF signal coupled from the speech amplifier through T- 403 is
ampli fied sufficiently to drive the grids of the modulator tubes.
(b) The driver must be a power amplifier because the grids of the Class B
modulator tubes draw current during part of the cycle.

4. <FERATirn AS AN AUDIO OSCilLATOR:

(a) With PMISSICN [Link]:'I'(E in MCW position, S-405D connects an BOO -cycle
b and pass filter (L-403 and C-405) in a feedback circuit to produce
a udio oscillation.
(b) The audio oscillator is keyed by contacts K-1D of the keying relay in
th e transmitter.
(c) Th e power output of the audio oscillator is factory-adju�ted by R-409
to produce 100% modulation of the transmitter. �
 TBM COMPRESSOR ll Ml TER 35

( 1. PURPOSE: To compensate for wide variations in speech i nput level.

2. GE'£RAL CIRCUIT CU'IDITICNS:

(a) The plates of both the compressor (V-409A) and the limiter (V -409B)
are negative with respect to ground by 27 2 volts and the voltage
across R-406.
(b) The cathode of the compressor (V-409A) is maintained at -272 volts.
(c) The cathode of the limiter (V -409B) is maint ained at -265 volts.

3. OPERATICN:
(a) When the GAIN switch (S-402) is in AUTOMATIC, a portion of the AF
• output from the driver is fed from an add i tiona! winding on T-40 4. to
the plates of both the compressor (V-409A) and the limiter (V-409B).
(b) With no AF signal, n either the compressor nor the limiter conduct.
The speech amplifier grids are biased 2 volts negative by applying
-270 volts to the cathodes and -272 volts to the grids.
(c) With a normal AF sign al, the voltage across the compressor -limit er
winding of T-404 causes the compressor ( V-409A) to conduct durin g
signal peaks u ntil the grid cap acitor (C-402) is c h ar ge d to the
normal bias of -5 volts.
(d) With an excessive AF signal, the voltage at the plate of the limiter
(V-40!E) also becomes less negative tlran the fixed cathode volta ge
during sign al peaks. Then both the compressor and the limiter con­
duct, adding to the neg ative charge on t h e grid cap acitor (C-402)
until the speech amplifier bias is sufficiently negative to prev ent

( (e)
excessive gain.
·
If the sign al remains at a constant level after the necessary bias is
established, the limiter ceases to conduct, and the compressor con­
ducts only enough on signal pe ak s to r eplace the le ak age from t h e
grid capacitor (C-402) through the 2-megohm resistor (R-406).
(f) If the signal level decreases , the compressor also ceases to conduct.
The grid capacitor (C-402) then discharges through R-406, d ecreasing
the negative bias to compensate for the reduction in AF signal.
(g) The compressor sensitivity may be adjusted with R-432 •

�.
36 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

TBM MODULATOR STAGE

'�

T401\
"

F �II
DRI'ER
AUDIO OSCILlATOR � � •
V403- V404 K4 e ' J, i
'
PUSK P\JLL 807 S p •

�405
"'

MODULATION
LIMITER

"""b ""'
V407
1616

"'

R4 6
"
2
";;' � 1 •'I
I
""
.
0
EMISSION

502-42 RESTRICTED
R M.S TI. JAN. !9, 1945

Fi g . 42 T B M m o dulator s ta g e .
)
1. PURPOSE: T o develop high AF power to plate modulate a 500-watt RF transmitter.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT CXl'miTIONS:

(a) C lass B power amplifier.
(b) Push-pull transformer coupled.
(c) Zero biased.

3. OPERATIOO:
(a) AF signal power coupled from the driver through T-404 is amplified to
provide 400 watts maximum from the modulation transformer (T-405).
(b) 365 watts of AF power is coupled through C-408 to the plate of the PA
in the transmitter for 100% modulation. �

(c) 10 watts of AF power is coupled through C-420 to the screen of the PA

in the transmitter for 100% modulation.
(d) C-408 and C-420 also block DC from the secondary of the modulation
transformer (T-405) to prevent core saturation.
(e) M odulation chokes (L-404 and L-405) prevent loss of AF power i n the
OC power supply.
(f) M-405 measures the percentage of modulation.
(g) R-416 reduces the plate voltage of the PA to +2, 700 volts for VOICE
an d MCW so plate dissipation will not be excessive during modulation.
(h) Spark gaps across T-405 and L-404 prevent insulation breakdown if the
modu lator is operated without proper load.

�
 $>
TBM MODULATION LIMITER 37

( 1. PURFOSE: To prevent overmodulation.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT ONliTICI\�'S:

(a) The DC plate voltage of the RF transmitter is 2,700 volts.
(b) The plate of the modulation limiter diode (V-407) is biased 2,700
volts negative with respect to the cathode.

3. OPERATION:
(a) On positive modulation peaks, if the AF modulation voltage exceeds
2,700 volts the bias is overcome and the modulation limiter conducts.
(b) While conducting, V-407 acts as a low resistance, clipping off the
• positive peaks of all audio voltages in excess of 2,700 volts.

TBM VOICE RELAY CARRIER CCNIROL

DRIVER MODULATOR
AUDIO OSCILLATOR STAGE

PUSH [Link] 807'5 PUSH PULL 803'5

CLASSB
-
- 12 v ------ -------,

0
CARRIER
CONTROL

(
VOICE

R 426 RELAY TUBE

"

1'10

?llr,.�,;
R74�3� IN PARALLEL
WITH TEST
K
EYIIII
TRANSMITTER
; �;-�---•------ ,_- --•-
K

VOICE '
0 '
RELAY '
VOICE '
RELAY '
L---·1---------- _,_- --

-
502 43 RESTRICTED

R.M.S. T. I. JAN. 22, 1945

� Fig. 43 TBM carrier control circuit in MANUAL position.

1. PURPOSE: To automatically turn on the RF carrier by speaking into the micro­

phone, and turn off the RF carrier when no AF signal is present.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT CQIDITirnS: Depending on the position of CARRI ER CCJII'IROL switch

(S-403), the voice relay (K-401) may be energized either from the 12-v. DC power
supply or from the plate and screen current of the voice relay tube (V-408) .

3. OPERATICN WI'IH CARRIER C(]\.11ROL SWITCH ( S-403) IN MANUAL POSITICN:

(a} Whenever a TALK switch is closed, either at the modulator panel or at
a remote telephone unit, the voice relay is energized from the 12-v.
< power supply and closes contacts K-401A to turn on the RF carrier.
..
38 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

TBM VOICE RELAY CARRIER CONTROL (CONTINUED)

�'"'
·.
·- _ · ..·7
·

4, OPERATICN WI'UI CARRIER (.'(N'IRCL SWITCH (S-403) IN VOICE RELAY FOSITICN:

(a) With no AF signal, the voice relay tube (V-408) has zero grid bias,
and conducts sufficient current to energize the voice relay (K-401)
to hold contacts K-401B open and keep the RF carrier off,
{b) When an AF signal is applied to the modulator, a portion of the sig­
nal is fed through T-407 to the grid of the voice relay tube (V-408).
{c) During each positive signal peak, grid current of V-408 charges the
gr id capacitor {C-414) negative on the grid side, through the low
resistance between cathode and positive grid.
{d) When no grid current flows, the cathode-to-grid resistance is high, "'

and C-414 discha rges slowly through the 5-megohm resistor {R-412).
(e) After a few cycles, C-414 becomes charged sufficiently negative to
bias V-408 to cutoff, This de-energizes the voice relay (K-401),
allowing contacts K-401B to close and turn on the RF carrier.
(f) If the AF signal stops, the grid capacitor (C-414) discharges through
R-412 until the negative bias is lost and V-408 con ducts, energizing
the voice relay to open contacts K-401B and turn off the RF carrier.
(g) The amount of AF signal required to turn on the RF carrier depends on
the setting of the VOICE RELAY SENSITIVITY control (R -413) on tne
modulat or front panel.

P CAP
DRIVER­ MODULATOR

,�·')·•
AUD!O OSCILLATOR STAGE

"''<J
PRESS
' '
PUSH PULL 807 5 PUSH f>ULL 803 5
TO TALK
CLASS 8
-

. ��
0
CAM0£0
COttTftQL

S40!
hlANUAL
VOICE
R426
"

R � 3 ��------�

0 VOICE
RELAY
VOICE
RELAY
SENSITIVITY 'f,

!102-44 RESTRICTED

R.M.S. T. I. JAN. 22, 194!5

Fig. 44 Ta.t carrier control circuit in VOICE RELAY position.

;(I
 �
,.., ..
1\ �

----------

� --- �B� �:_-W:;�F-:A:S�;R---

L ___ _________ _

SPtECH AMPLIFIER DRIVER-� AUDIO OSC MCDUL ATOR

D=ffrvo.
IILf rll __

I I EMISSION
SELECTOP
I -1
CD
X

R418
X
10' 0
-e<21 LIMITER
0

I c:
z.

,....
+40V

.1>
-1
0
:::0
0
A426 EMISSION
SELECTOR
c:
+3000V z:
-
(?.t>.,\"' �(.')1:\\�<:.J\.. �\t>.S .... -1
AUTOMATIC

r MANUAL
0
CARRIER CONTROL
-275V

el V409A
... '1�25Z5
COMPRESSOR
R413
"
IN PARALLEL
WITH TEST

SENSITIVITY

502-45 RESTRtCTEO
-!-
R.M.S. T,:r, JAN. II, 1945

Fig. 45 TBM modulator unit, simplified schematic diagram. �

10
40 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

SUPPRESSOR GRID MODULATION �

RF POWER AMPLIFIER

� OUPLING

���-------+--��
GRID
LEAK

RF
..
I
BYPASS
RF
RF

I I
BYPASS

'"
BYPASS

�)I,
MOOULATlON
1
!- ...
TRANSFORMER
MODULATOR
.----
I _ _j_ AF
SWAMPING MODULATION
'·
RESISTOR
VOLTAGE

T
----,

�I
--

r SUPPRESSOR
GRID BIAS

�02-46 RESTRICTED
R . M .S. T. :t. FEB. 14, 1945
)
'

Fi g . 46 Su p pr e s s o r g r i d m o d u l a ted a m p l i f i e r.

1. GENERAL CIRCUIT CCNDITICNS:

(a) Class C RF power amplifier (V-1) with negative suppressor grid bias.
(b) Class A modulator delivers the small amount of AF power required.

2. OPERATION:
(a) The AF output Em of the modulator (V-2) across the secondary of the

modulation transformer (T-1) alternately adds to and subtracts from

the negative suppressor grid bias voltage.
(b) This causes the plate current of the RF power amplifier (V-1) to vary "

at an AF rate, producing a modulated wave in the transmitter output.

(c) On positive modulation peaks, suppressor grid current flows, causing
distortion. To minimize this distortion, a swamping resistor is con­
n ected across the secondary of the modulation transformer (T-1).
(d) On negative modulation peaks, a virtual cathode is formed between the
suppressor and screen, causing screen current to increase. The RF
power output is limited by the allowable screen dissipation.

3. RESULTS:

(a) Lineari ty with 100% modulation is poor due to the curvature in the
suppressor grid voltage vs. plate current characteristic curve.
(b) Plate efficiency of the RF power amplifier is from 30 to 40 percent.
·��
 SUPPRESSOR GRID MODULATED AMPLIFIER 41

(
""'
voLT A G E I
,000
r. vo"'

e
� f<-cw--1

���� - - - J � I
3500 b

'"�;,:�:;." +

I
������r ���� - :
.. . -
500
TIME llo '
0 .. . (· . >{'
I
'I I I
I
I
PLATE T 1 T2 T 3 T 4
[Link] VO ICE CREST TROUGH cw
C ARRIER I

/b

_,., _,, 1'... - - - �llllllil illlll lllllllllllil

�

·;"""MI I
J
""-"" �
I i=

TIME Tl T2 T 3 T4
VO ICE CREST TRO UGH ji cw

( -110 v CARRIER
.\ i
SUPPRESSOR
BIAS FOR PLATE
- --T 1
VO ICE SUPPLY 2000V 2000 v 2000 v 2000V
I -,�.
� VOLTAGE

PLATE
eo ma 160 ma 0 160m a
--T 2 CURRENT

PLATE
POWER
160 w 320 w 0
I 320W
INPUT

I (Eb Ib)

-- - T 3 POWER

.. I O UTPUT
(FROM TUBE
53 w 212 w 0
-"�

1,.
212 w

M ANUAL)

PLATE
DISSIP ATION
107W 1 08 w 0 1 08 w

;
+40 v
SUP PRESSOR
B I AS FOR
c �, PLATE
--T4 33 % 86% 0 66%
EFFICIENCY -·

502 -
R. M.S.
47 RESTRICTED
T. I. FEB. 10, 1945

Fig. 47 Voltage, current and power relations in SUPP£essor grid modulated amplifier.
\
42 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

GRID MODULATION ·A)

RF POWER AMPLIFIER

� OUPLING

� �------�--��--+
0
ANTENNA
TUNING

"'
BYPASS

.\ l I,
MODULATION
TRANSFORMER
MODULATOR T

r1: _L

I- ...
- "
MODULATION
'·
VOLTAGE

�II
'�)
.
BIAS

'•.,

502.-48 RESTRICTED

A. M.$. T.I FEB 1'3, 1945

Fig. 48 Gr i d modu l a t e d a m p l i f i e r.

1. <E'lElML CIRCUIT CCNDITI<liiS:

(a) Class c RF power amplifier.
1
(b) Class A modulator delivers the small amount of AF power required. ' "

2. OPERATION:
(a) The AF output � of the modulator (V-2) across the secondary of the
modulation transformer (T-1) alternately adds to and subtracts from
the negative grid bias of the RF power amplifier (V-1).
(b) This causes the plate current of the RF power amplifier (V-1) to vary
at an AF rate, producing a modulated wave in the transmitter output.

3. RESULTS:
(a) Linearity is good if no grid current flows in the RF power amplifier.
(b) Plate efficiency of the RF power amplifier is from 30 to 40 percent.
•
�
 GRID MODULATED AMPLIFIER 43

(
ib RF plate c ur r e n t w ith no m o d u l at i o n.

l l l l l l l l l�l l l l /1 1 1 1 1 1�1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 �1111 1 1 1 1 1 �1

The sharp pulses of plate current are
constant in amplitude when no modulation
0
is applied.

� RF EXCITATION

Grid voltage with 100% modulation. The

VARYING
DC grid bias of the modulated RF amplifier
is varied above and below the unmodulated
value to shift the operating point of the
stage at an RF rate. RF exci tation is
superimposed on the modulated grid bias
voltage to produce vari ations in plate
current according to the intelligence to
be transmitted.

(
Resulting RF plate current with 100% mod­
ulation. The sharp pulses of plate cur­

, lll�l�l�lll/.�l�ir rll,. ,,,111�������1 rent follow the AF waveform of the grid

bias voltage.
•

e tonk

RF voltage developed across LC tank. The

flywheel effect of the tuned tank circuit
II

��� �� �-·�r � � � � carries over the portion of each RF cycle

in which no plate current flows,
in the remainder of the
f illing
modulated wave.
The same waveform appears in the antenna

circuit coupled to the tank.

TIME.

502 - 49 RESTRICTED

R. M. 5. T. I. FEB. 12, 1945

Fig. 49 Waveforms of grid modulated amp lifier.

l
44 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

FREQUENCY MODULATION ·�
For communication use, frequency modulation (FM) is a process iDwhich the carrier
amplitude is constant and the output frequency of the transmitter is made to vary

about the carrier or rest frequency at a rate corresponding to the audio frequencies
of the modulating signal. The extent to which the frequency changes from the carri­

e r o r rest frequency is proportional to the amplitude of the modulating signal.

1. ADVANTAGES:
(a) Reduction of all types of electrical noise, because these noises are
oscillations varying in amplitude.
(b) Very little AF modulating power is required because there is no power
variation in the FM output.
(c) Greatly reduced interference from stations operating in the same and

adjacent channels.

2. LIMITATIONS:
(a) Relatively wide band of frequencies required.
(b) In the VHF bands alloted to FM, the transmission range is practic­
ally line -of-sight.

3. NAVY USE:
(a) Short range communication, usually with portable equipment.

4 • Mm!ODS OF PROIUCINJ FM:

(a) Capacitor microphone. )
(b) Reactance tube.
(c) Indirect system using phase modulation.

C��ITffiMICROffirnE�STEMOFFM

RF OSCILLATOR

[Link]
VCICE MICROPHONE

•)eel I I I I I I I I I II------,
�

502-50 RESTRICTED
R M S T I FEB 16, 1945

Fig. 50 Capacit or microphone FM oscil lator.

Voice waves striking the micropho n e cause changes in the capacity of the RF tank
c ircuit. The oscillator frequency varie s above and below normal at the voice rate,
the extent of the frequency change d epending on the amplitude of the voice waves.

Altho ugh fundamenta l ly the simpl est, this method of producing FM is the least
practical because of mechanical limitations and non-linearity of modulation. ;�
 FREQUENCY MODULATION 45

( The three terms used to express the characteristics of an FM wave are:

1. DEVIATIOO: The amount the frequency is varied away from the carrier frequency
in one direction.
(a) Directly proportional to the amplitude of the modulating voltage.
(b) Independent of the frequency of the modulating voltage.

2. TOTAL SWING: The sum of the deviation above and below the carrier.

3. MODULATION INDEX: A measure of the degree of frequency modulation.

(a) The ratio of deviation to modulation frequency.

s,ooo cps 5,000 cps

<0 v

A F
MODULATING
SIGNAL
_ l _ __ 1_

I-- 100 u sec --+j r 200 u sec

( l !l li1• 1 1' ,.
F M WAVE

1il�lll[1il�l'lil11.i
30,060 KC 29,940 KC
I 30,060 KC
r
29,940 KC 30,030 KC 29,970 KC

I
30,000 KC
CARRIER I 30,000 KC
CARRIER
I 30,000 I(C
CARRIER
30,000 KC
CARRIER
30,000 KC
CARRIER

I
OR REST
fREQUI;:NCY

CARRIER
30,000 KC 30,000 KC 30,000 KC

10,000 cps 5,ooo cps s,ooo cps

I DEVIATION ! 60 KC : 60 KC ! 30 KC

12Q KC

30,060 KC 30,060 KC 30,03�

TROUGH
2 9,940 KC 29,940 KC 29,970
FREQUENCY

MODULATION
INDEX

RESTRICTED

FE8. !3,

Fig. 51 Relations between an FM wave and the modulating voltage.

(
46 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

R E ACTA NC E TUBE SYSTEM OF FREQUENCY MODULATION

·�

L C
TANK
REACTANCE­
c,
TUBE

C \HIGH Xcl

�II DC
R \LOW R)

c,

!S02- !12 RESTRICTED

R.M.$. T.I FE6. 15, 194!1

Fig. 52 R e a c t an c e tube system of FM.

1. PURPOSE: To vary the frequency of the RF oscillator in accordance with the

intelligence to be transmitted.

2. GENERAL CIRCUIT CXJ'IDITICNS: �)

(a) The combina tion of carbon microphone, tetrode tube and p hase shifter
in Fig. 52 perform the same f unction as ·the capacitor m icrophone in
Fig. SO.
(1) The phase shifter network consists of a high X and low R
c
to provide practically a full 90-degree phase shift.

3. OPERATICN:
(a) The RF voltage across the 1C tank circuit causes a 90-degree leading
current to flow in the phase shifter.
(b) The RF excitation voltage applied to the control grid (G )of t h e
1
reactance tube (V-1) leads the tank voltage b y 90 degrees.
(c) The reactance t ube plate current is in phase w ith t he 90-degree ..
leading grid voltage, so the effect on the oscillator tank circuit is
the same as if the reactance tube were a capacitor connected across
the tank.
(d) When an AF voltage from the microphone is applied to the screen grid
<G:z ), the 90-degree leading RF plate current of the reactance tube
varies in amplitude at the AF rate. This has the effect of varying
the capacitive reactance of the oscillator tank circuit, and there­
fore causes the RF oscillator frequency to increase and decrease at
the /IF rate of the microphone signal.
(e) This circuit may be converted into an inductive-reactance type rather
than a capacitive-reactance type by inverting the RC phase shifter
and t ransposing the relative values of R and X .
c ·�
 AN INDIRECT SYSTEM OF FREQUENCY MODULATION 47

( ..

RF

/_
1000 KG AT
AF CORRECTOR + 45° PHASE
.......--

·"',

�
180 PHASE

���
OIFFERENCf

,,
\LOW G)

'------'
iOOO KG
-_4_5 ,AAT
�E

R. M S T I. FEB <5, 194�

Fi g . 53 An i n d i re c t s ys t e m of freque ncy modulation.

1. PllRIUSE: To produce FM by modulating the phase of an RF wave.

2. GFl'lERAL CIRCUIT CDNDITIONS:

(a) A stable frequency is generat e d by th e c ry s t a l o s ci llator V-1.
(b) Phase shifter C4-R3 causes the RF output of V2 to l ead by 45 degrees.
(c) Phase shifter R2-C3 causes the RF output of V3 to lag by 45 degrees.
.< (d) Audio modulating volt age is appli ed to the modulator injector grids
in push-pull.
(e) The modulator plates are connected in parallel.

3• OPERATICN:
(a) Without modulation, the RF outputs of V-2 and V-3 are of equal magni­
tude. These two RF s ignals have a phase difference of 90 degrees,
and when combined in the tank Ll-C9 produce the rest frequency.
( b) On the extreme positive peak of modulat ion, the output of V-2 is
maximum and V-3 is cut off. Using the rest frequency as a reference,
the RF output wave is now le�d ing by 45 degrees,
(c) On the extreme negative peak of m odulation, V-2 is cut off and the
lf
output of V-3 is maximum. The RF output wave is now lagging t he
rest frequency by 45 degrees.
(d) With voice modulatiCfi, to preserve linearity the phase deviation is
limited to: 30 degrees or less, but the effect is the same.
(e) T he Class C frequency multiplier stages following the modulator
increase the frequency deviation and also act as limiters t o remove
undesirable amplitude modulation.

4 • [Link]:

(a) As the phase of the output wave moves ahead, the frequency is higher
than the rest frequency.
( b) As the phase of the output wave falls behind, the frequency is lower

t than the rest frequency.

48 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

A TYPICA L RELA Y OR MAGNETIC CONTACTOR

'�

� - - _;; i
__!...if L!_

��
: /:
I '
I I
I I

±1J
I
I
'- _____ ..J

SCHEMATIC
EQUIVALENT

502- 54 RESTRICTED
RMS Tl FEB. 1945 o'")
F ig. 54 AC-DC d o u b l e pole single throw r e l a y.

1. PtJRR)SE: To open or close electrical circuits by remot e control.

2. GENERAL C(JIIDITICNS:
(a) Contact tips are silver for good conductivity even w hen oxidized.
(b) Tension springs compensate for contact wear and misalignment.
(c) Return spring holds contacts open when relay coil is de- energized,
This type of contact is called 'normally open'.
(d) Coil of copper wire mounted m U-shaped iron core forms an electro­
magnet for operating the relay. The magnetic strength depends m the
ampere -turns. "

(1) For AC operation, the iron core and armature are laminated
to reduce heating from eddy current losses. The current
induced in the copp er 'shading coi ls' e mb e dd ed in the
core faces is sufficient to prevent chattering. Current in
the o perating coil is limited mainly by inductive reactance.
(2) The same relay may be operated with DC, either at reduced
supply voltage or with a series resistor.

3. CI'ERATICN:
(a) When the coil circuit is energized, the magnetized core attracts the
iron armature and closes the contacts.
(b) When the coil is de-enet·gized, the return spring pulls the armature
away from the de-magnetized core and opens the contacts.
'�
 HEAVY DUTY DC RELAY OR MAIN LINE CONTACTOR 49

(
SCHEMATIC EQUIVALENT

i _ __ _ \ \
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

L - -- 11 f f - - --- � ---
OPEN
BLOWOUT
WITH
COIL

r\�
� OPEN WITHOUT
BLOWOUT COIL

� OPENING OR
CLOSING

c::IrLCLOSED

502- 55 RESTRICT ED
RMS Tl FEB. 1945

Fig. 55 A typical heavy d u t y d o ub le pole single throw DC r e l a y.

( 1. PURPOSE: To make and break a circuit carrying a heavy DC load.

2. GENERAL CCl'IDITIONS:
(a) Large operating coil is a s trong electromagnet for operat ing heavy
contacts and maintaining firm contact pressure.
(b) Solid iron core and armature (laminations are unnecessary for DC).
(c) Heavy copper contacts for high amperage are easily replaceable.
Curve d faces and rolling action prevent sticking and caus e make and
break to occur only at top of contacts. When completely closed,
contact is maintained over a broad area near the bottom.
(d) Blowout coil of edgewise-wound heavy copper ribbon carries the entire
load current, and provides a strong magnetic field at .right angles to
the current flow across the contacts for deflecting the arc upward.
Iron plates on arc b arriers extend magnetic field to the contacts.

3. CPERATIQ\1:
(a) �ben the operating coil is energized, the magnetized core attracts
the iron armature and closes the contacts.
(b) When the operating coil is de-energized, the heavy tension springs
and return spring open the contacts with a rolling a ction so the
break will occur at the top of the contacts.
(c) The large arc f ormed when the high amperage DC circuit is being
broken is deflected upward by the magne tic field of the blowout coil.

l
This lengthens, cools and quickly extinguishes the arc, m inimizing
the b urning and confining the damage to the top of the contacts.
50 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS
·�

NORMALLY CLOSED
MAIN CONTACTS

NORMALLY
OPEN
AUXILIARY

CO N TACTS

: :�
---- -- --i

V
COMPLETE TIMETACTOR '

'

'
Li_ '
'
'

�
/�)
I
I

I
NEUTRALIZING
MAIN I M
I

I �
�---- - - j
____

Jr:)l
MAIN AND NEUTRALIZING COILS SCHEMATIC
EQUIVALENTS
AROUND C OPPER SLEEVE

ti_
�------ ----,

::-
I
I

I Li_
,
I

�
I
'

-+-0-+--
1

,
'
�-------- .J

CLOSED MAGNETIC CIRCUIT

OF HEAVY IRON

502 -56 RESTRICTED

RMS Tl FEB. 1945

Fig. 56 Timetactor time delay relay. :�

 TIMETACTOR TIME DELAY RELAY 51

( 1. PURPOSE: To provide a time delay between the removal of a control voltage and
the operation of the relay contacts. A Timetactor is commonly used in a DC
motor starter, to short out starting resistance after the motor gains speed.
Any relay used in this manner may be called an accelerating relay.

2. GENmAL c:mDITICl'IS:
(a) The main contacts are broad and heavy, with silver faces. They must short out
the starting resistance and carry the motor arma ture current, but require no
arc protection because they never open under load. These are normally closed
contacts (held closed by the return spring when the c o i l is de-energized).

(b) The auxiliary contacts are both norm8lly open. One pair controls the main line
contactor, and the other controls the neutralizing circuit of the Timetactor.

(c) The main coil corresponds to the operating coil of an ordinary relay. When
energized from the DC line, this coil magne tizes the iron core, a ttracts the
armature and operates the contacts (in this case opens the main contacts and
closes both pairs of auxiliary contacts).

(d) The thick copper sleeve extending through the center of the coil is a closed
electrical circuit of very low resistance.

(e) When the main coil is de-energized, the magne tic f ield intensity begins to
decrease, but even a slight change in field intensity induces sufficient cur­
r ent in the copper sleeve to sustain most of the original magnetic field. By
( delaying the loss of the magnetic field, the copper sleeve delays the return of
the relay armature to the normal (de-energized) position.

(f) The iron core, armature and mounting bracket all are made unusually heavy to
provide a closed magnetic circuit of very low reluctance as long as the arma­
ture is touching the face of the core.

(g) The electrical and magnetic losses are so small that unless the core is inten­
tionally de-magnetized it will not release the relay armature for several hours
after the main coil is de-energized.

(h) The time delay is shortened to the desired length by passing a small amount o f

' DC through the neutralizing coil i n a direction opposite to that o f the orig­
inal magnetizing current in the main coil. The time de1ay may be adjusted over
a useable range of 1/2 to 6 seconds by controlling the neutralizing c urrent.

3. TYPICAL OPERATI<l'l OF A TIMETACI'OR IN A DC MOfOR S'mRTER: The normally closed

main contacts are connected across the starting resistance. Therefore the man­
ual start switch must energize the Timetactor to open these contacts before the
motor is turned on. One pair of Timetactor auxiliary contacts energizes the
main line contactor to start the motor. The other pair energizes the neutraliz­
ing coil. After a delay sufficient for the motor to accelerate, the Timetactor
releases. The main contacts close and short out the starting resistance. The
auxiliary contacts open, ready for the next start. The main line contactor has

( holding contacts to keep its coil energized after the Timetactor releases.
52 TRANSMITTER FUNDAMENTALS

A
. �.
. . .�

PLUNGER

VALVE
WASHER

PISTON

···)·
�, ''"'

SEGMENT
COMPLETE DASHPOT RELAY
WASHER �
LOCK
WASHER 0
NUT
�
r- - -- - --,
I
I I

---o---. �
I �
CYLINDER
�

I
I

+1 ,_-

SCHEMATIC
-- - - - -.J

EQUIVALENT
EXPLODED

PLUNGER AND
VIEW OF

CYLINDER

502 - 57 RESTRICTED
RMS Tl FEB. 1945

Fig. 57 Typical dashpot type time delay relay. l�

 DASHPOT TIME DELAY RtLAY 53

( 1, PURPOSE: To provide a time delay between the energizing of the relay coil a n d
t he operation o f the contacts. Dashpot relays a r e particular ly suitable for
o verload protection because for any given setting, the actual delay v a r ies
i nversely with the amount of overload.

2. GENERAL CXl'IDITICNS:
(a) The complete dashpot relay is shown in the tripped position, with the normally
closed contacts mechanically latched open.
"'

(b) The contacts are intended to break only small currents� If the circuit to be
protected carries high amperage, the dashpot relay contacts may control the
coil circuit of a heavy duty relay such as the one shown in Fig. 55,

(c) The operating coil is a hollow solenoid into w hich the dashpot plunger may be
lifted by the magnetic field. The coil in Fig. 57 has relatively few turns of
heavy wire, and is intended to carry from 38.5 to 77 amperes. This relay is

suitable for overload protection of a 5 -hp, 115-volt DC motor. If the operat-

ing coil had several hundred turns of fine wire, a fraction of an ampere would
operate the relay, making it suitable for overload protection of a vacuum tube.

3. OFmATI<l'l:

(a) As long as current in the operating coil does not e xceed t h e value of the
dashpot setting, the plunger assembly rests on the bottom of the cylin der.

( (b) When current flow exceeds the setting, the magnetic field intensity is suffi­
cient to lift the plunger assembly. However, the upward tr avel is retarded by
the slow transfer of oil through the small holes near the center of the piston.
(1) If the current flow returns to normal before the piston reaches the
three by-pass channels in the cylinder wall, the plunger f alls back
down without operating the contacts.
(2) If the overload continues, the plunger rises slowly until the oil can
p ass freely ar ound the piston th rough the by-pass channels in the
cylinder wall. Then the plunger jumps to the top of its travel and
opens the contacts.

(c) When the overloaded circuit is broken, current no longer flows in the dashpot
operating coil. As the plunger moves downward, oil l i f ts the loose valve
washer off the large holes in the piston, allowing th� entire plunger assembly
to drop quickly to the bottom of the cylinder.

(d) The contacts remain latched open until the reset button is p ressed.

4. CURRENT ADJUSTMENT: The magnetic field intensity required to lift the iron
plunger depends on the vertical position of the plunger within the coil. To
i ncrease the current setting, the dashpot cylinder is screwed downward in the
mounting, lowering the entire dashpot assembly.

5. TIME ADJU�= To lengthen the time delay, the �egment washer is set to cover

( more of the small holes in the bottom of the piston.