6-20-09:
The dual coupler option adds a pair of connectors to the rear panel of the LP-100A to allow for connection of a second coupler. The second coupler can be any model supported by the LP-100A. It can be manually selected from the front panel, or the meter can automatically sense whichever coupler is receiving power and display it. This can be quite useful in a SO2R setup, so that a single LP-100A can always be displaying the transmitted signal, without any signals from the radio controller to indicate which rig is transmitting. It can also be used for stations where a separate transmit path is used for 6m, eliminating the need for two wattmeters.
The dual coupler option consists of a daughtercard which plugs into an RF header on the main LP-100A PCB. It mounts on two standoffs, and the new connectors protrude out the back where the plastic plugs are located on the LP-100A. A short ribbon cable connects the daughtercard to the microcontroller to provide the logic signals to controller relay switching and auto-sensing.
NOTE: The dual coupler option is currently only available for LP-100A. This is because of mechanical considerations having to do with the RF header on the main PCB and the holes on the rear panel. There were also some early LP-100As which did not have the holes. These can be updated with new enclosure bottoms. Theoretically, the dual coupler option will work with LP-100s which have been updated to the new display, but the mechanics are more involved, and I have not worked out the details for that possibility yet.
The assembled option includes the daughtercard, two ribbon cables, and mounting hardware. The kit includes all the parts that mount on the daughtercard as well. Installing the dual coupler option does not require recalibration of the main channel, but does require calibration of the second channel. There is a menu option which allows copying of the CH1 CAL data to CH2, which gives a very good starting point to calibraiton of CH2.
Current owners also have the option of returning their meters for installation of the option, as well as recalibration. The dual coupler option can also be purchased along with a new assembled LP-100A, in which case the unit comes completely installed in the LP-100A, and both couplers are calibrated.
The assembly/installation
manual can be found here... Dual Coupler Option Manual
Note: We no longer offer the kit version, but the manual also covers installation.
Pricing is as follows...
Dual Coupler Option Board - Assembled / factory installed..............................$75 / $85
Additional LPC1 coupler (includes cables) - Assembled...........................................................$150
Additional LPC2, LPC4 or LPC5 coupler (includes cables) - Assembled.................................$225
Shipping (varies with order and destination)...................................................................Call or email
The Dual Coupler Option is in production, and a number of assembled units have been delivered already. Units can be ordered anytime by sending us an email for payment instructions. Shipping cost varies by destination, and whether the order is for a standalone Dual Coupler Option, one that is being retrofited into an existing LP-100A or one that is being purchased along with a new LP-100A.
73, Note: We no longer offer the kit version, but the manual also covers installation.
Pricing is as follows...
Dual Coupler Option Board - Assembled / factory installed..............................$75 / $85
Additional LPC1 coupler (includes cables) - Assembled...........................................................$150
Additional LPC2, LPC4 or LPC5 coupler (includes cables) - Assembled.................................$225
Shipping (varies with order and destination)...................................................................Call or email
The Dual Coupler Option is in production, and a number of assembled units have been delivered already. Units can be ordered anytime by sending us an email for payment instructions. Shipping cost varies by destination, and whether the order is for a standalone Dual Coupler Option, one that is being retrofited into an existing LP-100A or one that is being purchased along with a new LP-100A.