Overview

SSB Electronic Mast-Mount Preamplifiers

SSB Electronic Mast-Mount Preamplifiers are low-noise, band-specific, weatherproof preamplifiers designed for installation near VHF and UHF antennas. Available for the 6 meter, 4 meter (Europe), 2 meter and 70 cm Amateur bands, these preamplifiers are installed in-line, at the antenna. They improve receive performance by amplifying weak signals before feedline loss can reduce them.

Powering and Sequencing
Most models can be powered remotely through the coaxial cable, and many modern transceivers include a built-in bias-tee for mast-mounted preamplifiers. If the transceiver or transverter system does not provide power, an external bias-tee or remote-feed unit is required.
• The DCW-15 and DCW 2004B provide sequencing support.
• The DCC-12 does not provide sequencing.
• SP series preamplifiers include a built-in RF VOX circuit for safe operations up to 100 watts; for transmit power above 100 watts, PTT control with a sequencer is required. Some models require a direct DC connection (UHF female).
• -S series preamplifiers feature lower current signal relays with slightly higher insertion loss.
• MHP and MHP-S series preamplifiers versions require sequencer control (see below).

Signal Filtering and Switching
Built-in helix filters effectively reject out-of-band signals, helping maintain clean receive performance. Real coaxial relays handle transmit/receive switching, resulting in very low insertion loss (except for SP-S series). And each amplifier is carefully calibrated at multiple test stations before packaging.

Dual-Band Models
Dual-band models include built-in diplexers, so they require only one connection for the multiband antenna and one connection for the station coaxial cable.

MHP Series for Demanding Stations
The MHP series is designed for demanding operating environments and provides higher gain for weak-signal modes such as Tropo-DX and EME. With maximum transmit power handling of 1500 watts on 6m and 2000 watts on 2m and 70cm, these preamplifiers are well suited for contesting, DX, and EME operation.

Important Note for MHP Models
Bias-tee power (on the RF coax) is not supported in most MHP Preamplifiers. They must be powered directly using the appropriate cable size for the required distance, and they may only be operated with a correctly wired sequencer, such as the DCW 2004 B Sequence Controller. Transmitting high power without a directly wired sequencer is likely to damage the MHP preamplifier.

Housing and Hardware
All SSB Electronic Mast-Mount Preamplifiers are supplied in UV-resistant, weatherproof housings with Type N female connectors. Hot-dip galvanized clamps and stainless steel mounting hardware are included.

See individual models for band coverage and detailed specifications.

Documentation

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