Solution: Motorola R-2200B low gen. output
Posted: Thu Mar 25, 2010 9:01 am
With the help of DJP126, I have solved the fault with My Motorola R-2200B.
My unit had low output in generate mode, over 35dB too low. This fault appears to be common, and may affect the R-2200 through R-2410 models.
In most cases, as mine, the fault comes from the wideband board. The board is easy to service, and can be removed from the bottom of the unit after removing the bottom cover only, removing the board cover, and then removing all board screws with NO DESOLDERING. The SMB connectors on the board use contact pins, only the small phillips screws keep them in place.
First, I troubleshot what appeared to be a defective IC, U202, and replaced with new. It now appears that the low levels measured on the output of U202 may have been due to the vernier setting, which should varied during throubleshooting. I later replaced the failed relay K203 (open coil), Motorola part# 80-80377A59. The part is NLA from Motorola, but I was able to order the OEM part through another supplier. I know the part is a COTO sub-miniature relay, and is likely still being made. Be sure to match the pinout carefully to ensure a proper match. These relays often fail, it would be a good idea to keep some spares of this part even if your unit is working.
My unit had low output in generate mode, over 35dB too low. This fault appears to be common, and may affect the R-2200 through R-2410 models.
In most cases, as mine, the fault comes from the wideband board. The board is easy to service, and can be removed from the bottom of the unit after removing the bottom cover only, removing the board cover, and then removing all board screws with NO DESOLDERING. The SMB connectors on the board use contact pins, only the small phillips screws keep them in place.
First, I troubleshot what appeared to be a defective IC, U202, and replaced with new. It now appears that the low levels measured on the output of U202 may have been due to the vernier setting, which should varied during throubleshooting. I later replaced the failed relay K203 (open coil), Motorola part# 80-80377A59. The part is NLA from Motorola, but I was able to order the OEM part through another supplier. I know the part is a COTO sub-miniature relay, and is likely still being made. Be sure to match the pinout carefully to ensure a proper match. These relays often fail, it would be a good idea to keep some spares of this part even if your unit is working.