Olson Technology LCM-550x1 (FAC) - Manual (Page 2)

025-000354 REV. A Page 2
LCM-550-FAC
TWELVE PORT COMBINER
FOR LCM-550X12 SERIES
1) INTRODUCTION
The OLSON TECHNOLOGY LCM-550-FAC is a 12-port combiner with a frequency range of
50-550MHz. Although this combiner is capable of operation to 870MHz, it is not specified
beyond 550 MHz.
This field-installable combiner is designed to integrate with the LCM-550X12 Series system and mounts in
place of the blank front panel at the top of the unit. RF interconnect cables are provided to enable
connection to 12 modulator modules.
Twelve inputs and the common RF output are at the rear of the unit. For convenience, the (nominal) –20dB
test point is accessible from the front of the unit.
Two other 12-port combiners are available from OLSON TECHNOLOGY: These units mount in standard
19" equipment racks and are 1 rack-unit high. The OTHC-12 has a frequency range of 5MHz to 550MHz
and the OTHC-12-1G has a frequency range of 50MHz to 1000MHz.
2) INSTALLATION
If the LCM-550X12 Series system is mounted in an equipment rack, it must be removed or moved forward
enough to provide access to the four screws on each side that secure the top front panel.
Remove the screws that secure the top front panel and remove the panel.
Using the screws removed above, mount the combiner in place of the blank front panel. If necessary,
reinstall the system in the equipment rack.
Connect the RF cables to the modulators as required. Use caution not to damage or bend the small center
conductors of these cables. The combined signals are available at the RF output connector.
3) OPERATION
Connect a spectrum analyzer or signal level meter to the RF output and adjust the individual modulators as
required for the desired combined levels.
NOTE: This combiner has an insertion loss of between 17dB and 23dB. The LCM-550 modulators should
not be operated above +45dBmV. Take these values into account when setting the output levels from the
combiner. If higher output levels are required, the OLSON TECHNOLOGY LCM-550X12 amplifier is
available. This amplifier mounts-to and is powered-by the LCM-550 Series system main chassis. It will
operate at +45 dBmV out with 12 channels.
Once the levels have been set, the levels at the test point may be measured and recorded for future
reference. Note that the RF output must be terminated in 75
Ω when making these test point measurements.