DrD@ said:
Dear Colleagues,
I just acquired an IFR 1500 Service Monitor (with options 01 and 02).
Though I have the operation manual I am seeking a book showing
various applications for this incredible device.
Let me make sure I understand this: You have the unit, you have
the operator's manual, but you don't understand its applications?
You must not be into radio at all, because that's what a service
monitor is designed for: Testing and alignment of radio transmitters,
receivers, and transceivers. They most often find use in the world of
commercial and amateur FM radio, from 30MHz on up through 800/900.
Anyone know of a book title dealing with the applications of service
monitors?
I've been in the business 26 years, and I've never seen one. Let's
see if I can cover some of the basics.
A service monitor can be thought of as several separate
instruments in one package, controlled by a common front panel. Most
important among those instruments (to radio folk, anyway) are the
calibrated RF signal generator and the signal monitoring functions. The
generator should allow you to generate AM, FM, unmodulated CW, and
possibly SSB signals on any frequency within the instrument's range.
The signal monitor function will make it possible for you to test
transmitters, generally up to 100 watts output. You will be able to
determine frequency error, modulation level, and an oscilloscope-like
representation of whatever audio or data signal is modulating the
transmitter under test.
Some service monitors also include an RF spectrum analyzer. If
you're really lucky, there will also be a tracking generator to use in
conjunction with it. Both features together will allow you to tune
filters (bandpass, high-pass, low-pass, notch, etc.) and resonant
cavities to the proper point.
There will be other functions: An internal function generator,
which will probably be able to put out all kinds of sine-wave and DCS
(digital-coded squelch) signals, possibly a DVM, probably a low-
bandwidth (just a couple of MHz, most likely) oscilloscope, etc.
I'm speculating here because I've not used an IFR 1500. I have a
1600, it's successor. Your best source of information will be from the
operator's manual you already have, and from Aeroflex (they bought IFR).
Visit their site at:
http://www.aeroflex.com/support/service/servicecenters.cfm
...And note the contact information for the location in Wichita,
KS. They will be able to provide calibration services (highly
recommended, if your unit is beyond its last cal date by more than two
years), spare parts, and operational advice.
What I would strongly recommend, since you seem to have an
interest in radio experimentation, is to get your amateur radio
operator's license. The best way to do this is to locate an amateur
radio club in your area, using the resources at this link:
http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/club/clubsearch.phtml
Once you locate a club in your area, contact them to see if they
offer introductory classes aimed at getting your license. Most clubs
have this at little or no cost to the applicant.
IFR makes a fine instrument, but they are not particularly cheap
to repair if problems develop. Learn the capabilities and limits of your
unit well, treat it with care, and it will give you many years of good
service.
Happy hunting.
--
Dr. Anton T. Squeegee, Director, Dutch Surrealist Plumbing Institute.
(Known to some as Bruce Lane, ARS KC7GR,
kyrrin (a/t) bluefeathertech[d=o=t]calm --
www.bluefeathertech.com
"If Salvador Dali had owned a computer, would it have been equipped
with surreal ports?"
