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Re: comparing Wellbrook earlier ALA1530 to later ALA1530LN


 

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This was not an updated LN version--the LN uses jfets. This goes back to the old ALA1530 designation, and only uses paralleled bipolar transistors--no jfets--and more inductance in the transformers to get response down to VLF. The ALA1530LN was also still sold at the same time. (I also have both versions.) Here is the Wellbrook ad about it:

"New 4 x Transistor low noise design. 20kHz-30MHz Loop Amp, 1m dia. Aluminium Loop
The antenna amplifier is designed for use from 12V to 15V. Hence it is directly compatible for use with a 13.8V power source.
This loop is currently the widest bandwidth antenna in the Wellbrook range.
The new version of the ALA1530 has approx. 6dB higher LF gain and 3dB more gain at MF compared to the ALA1530LN. The LF noise figure is slightly higher than the ALA1530LN, but the 3-6dB increase in the ¡°on-air¡± gain more than compensates for this to provide an improved s/n ratio.
This Balanced low impedance Magnetic loop has enhanced performance compared to shielded and Moebius loop types. The unique use of an amplifier to match the loop's reactance is a technological breakthrough in Broadband loop design.
The amplifier is completely new; using bipolar transistors in parallel with reduced current significantly lowers the noise, especially at LF. This is the first time that this technology has been used for a commercial Active Loop Antenna.
The mechanical design is now improved to afford increased reliability and to facilitate ease of servicing:
The amplifier is now housed in a separate module, thus isolating the electronics from the mechanical stress caused by wind loading on the loop. The amplifier to loop wire terminations use tin plated silicone insulated wire and crimp terminals rated down to ¨C40 Celsius.The module sits on of the loop box and is secured by stainless steel screws.
The amplifier module can be easily replaced in the unlikely event of a failure, without the customer having purchase a new loopantenna with the associated high shipping costs."

73,

Steve AA7U

On 7/23/2024 1:10 PM, Jeroen K7JBT via groups.io wrote:

Wellbrook had an updated model of the ALA1530 LN with 32dB gain as well in the last years of trading. For some reason, the 'LN' suffix has been omitted from these models. I compared the last two models (LN 28 dB) and the 32dB, and the 32dB version did have more gain (as expected) but did not raise the noise level significantly, making it even better than the LN 28dB version. Unfortunately I have no documentation of the 32 dB one.
?
-Jeroen

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