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Author Topic: Ameritron 811 replacement power switch (older model)  (Read 20544 times)

K9OJT

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Ameritron 811 replacement power switch (older model)
« on: September 03, 2013, 04:04:04 AM »

I need to replace the power switch in my 811. The Ameritron 507-1151 switch is too wide. I found an older thread on QRZ that indicated a Carling switch (#LRA211-RS-B/125N). This is an illuminated switch. I prefer a non-illuminated switch.

I am not sure how to convert the number to a non-illuminated switch. Any help would be appreciated.

Ameritron lists one rocker switch in the parts list. Is this one switch a replacement for all three switches? The Carling number indicates an "off-none-on" and I need to know of this configuration also applies to the XMIT and METER switches.

Thanks in advance and 73

Mike K9OJT
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VK3HJ

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RE: Ameritron 811 replacement power switch (older model)
« Reply #1 on: September 03, 2013, 05:46:52 AM »

I needed to replace the power switch in my AL-811H a couple of years ago. The contacts had burned out. This was apparently a known issue.
I replaced it with a standard rocker switch from a major parts supplier (Farnell, or RS, I forget). Just measure your switch cutout size on the front panel, and search through the comprehensive specifications, including physical dimensions on the supplier's online catalog. I didn't have to look for long till I found a suitable part.
Otherwise, I've found Ameritron good for replacement parts. But their parts listing and ordering is not as comprehensive and as good as it was a couple of years ago. They have replied to all my email enquiries, and parts have been sent promptly when ordered.
I don't think I had to remove more than the top cover to access the power switch, so the replacement was quite easy.
73 es GL,
Luke VK3HJ
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N6AJR

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RE: Ameritron 811 replacement power switch (older model)
« Reply #2 on: September 03, 2013, 11:12:15 AM »

once you get it fixed, do what I do to turn them on and off. I use a 6 holer zip strip. You know the kind you plug into the wall and then you can plug in 6 other  pieces of gear into.  I found in the old days, like on the FT 101 series, they had 2 switches , on and heater , and it was a real pain to fix them.   so you spend about 10 bucks for a zip strip, or a little more for one with a reset button, and plug the amp or the power supply for the amp into  the zip strip, and when the switch in the zip strip goes out, buy a new zip strip, no sweat, no problem and cheep.
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VK3HJ

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RE: Ameritron 811 replacement power switch (older model)
« Reply #3 on: September 03, 2013, 04:33:09 PM »

What would we do without those multi-output power boards!
To use one with switched outputs would be the solution for most gear with a failed power switch.
The rocker switch used in the early Ameritrons were pretty crappy, and when they go, it is quite alarming when the switch contacts start arcing! I sold the amp earlier this year, but the replacement power switch never gave any trouble.
Another solution, after replacing the power switch, is to fit a soft start kit, to take the "thump" out of power up.
73,
Luke VK3HJ
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K8AXW

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RE: Ameritron 811 replacement power switch (older model)
« Reply #4 on: September 03, 2013, 06:03:56 PM »

VK3HJ has the correct answer to your question and problem.  Go to Mouser.com and check their rocker switches.  They provide all of the dimensions and electrical parameters for their switches. 

The computer is an incredible tool for finding anything.  Many of the components used in commercial equipment is available to individuals through outlets like Mouser and Digikey.

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W9GB

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RE: Ameritron 811 replacement power switch (older model)
« Reply #5 on: September 03, 2013, 07:44:20 PM »

Mike -

This should be a very easy replacement. They are ~ $1.25 from Digi-Key.
While Amateur Radio largely uses Black trim rocker switches -- Kitchen Appliance industry uses White!
http://www.digikey.com/product-search/en?mpart=RC911-RB-B-O-N&vendor=432

MANY power ("Snap-In" Rocker) switches are actually made for the Appliance industry.
http://www.carlingtech.com/rocker-switches-miniature

Carling R/RSC-series "Curvette" Rocker Switches : Single Pole (SPST or SPDT) & NO Illumination.
http://www.carlingtech.com/sites/default/files/documents/Carling-RS-R-Series.pdf
==
Digi-Key : Carling R-series catalog
http://www.digikey.com/catalog/en/partgroup/r-series/10519?mpart=RA901-RB-B-0-N&vendor=432&WT.z_ref_page_type=PS&WT.z_ref_page_sub_type=PD&WT.z_ref_page_id=PD&WT.z_ref_page_event=DC_Link_Table

GC Electronics sells a large assortment of appropriate ROCKER SWITCHES.
http://www.tselectronic.com/shop/pro...-Switches/1267

1. MEASURE the rectangular opening (cut-out) for the Ameritron amplifier power switch.
You should find that it is the STANDARD rectangular dimensions, used for appliances.

A Common Mounting Hole Dimension: 0.480" x 1.072"; (12.19mm x 27.23mm - Metric)
Quote
Carling number indicates an "off-none-on" and I need to know of this configuration also applies to the XMIT and METER switches.

2. Determine Switch Configuration, Terminals (.250 QC Tabs; Solder Lug Terminals; Wire Leads),
any parts numbers on old switch.
Use SCHEMATIC Diagram and/or the Actual Switches you are replacing!
« Last Edit: September 03, 2013, 08:44:37 PM by W9GB »
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W9GB

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RE: Ameritron 811 replacement power switch (older model)
« Reply #6 on: September 03, 2013, 08:43:18 PM »

Quote
QRZ that indicated a Carling switch (#LRA211-RS-B/125N). This is an illuminated switch. I prefer a non-illuminated switch.
I am not sure how to convert the number to a non-illuminated switch. Any help would be appreciated.
EASY QUESTION.  Lighted RA (LRA)

For Carling, just read the Spec sheet for the series to Decode !
LRA-series Spec Sheet, in order to decode.
http://www.carlingtech.com/sites/default/files/documents/LRA-Series_Details_%26_COS_0.pdf

The Carling R-series is what you desire.
http://www.carlingtech.com/rocker-switches-r-series
Spec Sheet
http://www.carlingtech.com/sites/default/files/documents/Carling-RS-R-Series.pdf
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