DSB CLIPPER FOR YAESU FT-757GX

YAESU FT-757GX ("Mark 1")

 DOUBLE SIDE BAND CLIPPER/PROCESSOR

I did not like the («fig) original LF speech processor because an unacceptable distortion. It is no more than an simple system: one transistor as amplifier and a collector circuit with two germanium diodes anti-parallel as limiter.

A RF clipper works better with less distortion. I had installed a DSB (double side band) clipper in a  Kenwood TS-50 and was looking if this system could applied without much "demolition work". The most suited point was the transmit portion of the RF UNIT e.g. buffer amplifier Q40 (2SK120) in front of a crystal filter. 

The («fig) drain of Q40 is loaded with IF transformer T20 and resistor R184 (10k). With sufficient drive and 2 × 1N4148 diodes anti-parallel across T20 the system works as IF limiter. The subsequent crystal filter ensures suppressing of undesirable harmonics. It turns out that drain's output was sufficient for a reasonably effective clipp level but even better if damping resistor R184 was removed. Here, it was done by cutting the top leg of R184. Damping still occurs when the diodes begins to limit. The result of this simple system is not spectacular, but works better than the original processor. Moreover, almost no one notice that a clipper is active, it can remain permanently. The PROC button could be used for something else. Installation on the track side, but if you have a steady hand, it can quickly on the component side. My method was solder between the lower end of resistor R185, and at the top of the cut leg of resistor R184. I expect photos and drawings are clear enough for easy assembly.

The compaction of the signal is clearly seen on («fig) a scope, which means that average output power is increased. Clip level can be adjusted with (fig») MIC volume knob. Overdriving the output stages is almost impossible but with too much microphone gain your modulation will sound rough.

Besides T20 it is better to readjust all TX IF transformers T20, T21, T23, T24 and T25 as prescribed in the manual. It's a piece of cake and there is no need for special measuring equipment.

For increased microphone find the slide switch in the left front corner on the LOCAL Unit PCB behind the microphone connector. Slide the switch into the position as set in the photo.

 CONTROL CABLE C FOR FT-757GX  FC-757AT

On demand cable T9101292 is produced and supplied by Crispino I5XWW. 

If one is owner of automatic antenna tuner FC-757AT cable T 9101292 is needed for control by a FT-757GX/FT-757GXII. Many hams with a second hand FC-757AT have no cable and it is regularly asked on forums. Luckily I found after a long search welcome information on a Spanish site. Italian I5XWW produced on request all kinds of cables for amateur equippement: http://xoomer.virgilio.it/i5xww/