Converting the Midland 13-509 (or most any transmitter) to direct Frequency Modulation

Introduction

You've possibly already read about "flat audio" This means a repeater's receiver is flat coming out, to drive a flat transmitter. In order to make most any transmitter flat you need to either choose one that's already direct Frequency Modulation, or modify it. This article pertains to the latter. For this project the 1 1/4 meter Midland 13-509 is chosen, mainly because it's use in several (transparent) links, which support the SRG 147.20 repeater.

Proceedures

First strip out several items not needed or otherwise to improve reliability and performance. That would include the T-R relay, the receiver deck, most or all of the trimmer capacitors for the transmitter and (now gone) receiver. These open slots can be used for transmitter control circuits, explained further on.

  • The T-R relay
  • The receiver deck; it's not needed for this transmitter project and can be mounted and used in another station/part of the system.
  • Most or all of the receiver crystal trimmers and caps. (The empty holes can be used for transmitter control).
  • Most or all of the transmitter crystal trimmers and caps. (The empty holes can be used for the Frequency Modulator).
  • Most or all of the crystal switch wires.
  • Some of the power control wires

    The FM transmitter Modifications

    After the trimmers are sucked out, perform the jumpers for both the FM and A+ switch








     

     

     

     

     

     

    Here's an overall view of the modifications. Remeber there are severals prototypes over the years, therefore it's possible the picture shows differnt physical locations of some parts.








     

     

     

     

     

     

    With some close ups of the modulator and T-R relay bypassing.......








     

     

     

     

     

     

    Detail of the switch








     

     

     

     

     

     

    Reduction in misc wiring








     

     

     

     

     

     

    The front and back








     

     

     

     

     

     

    Diagram of the F.M. Circuit. Typical bias is .8 v +. This allows the veractor to "swing" at the audio rate in a linear fashion. On the right is a commercial version designed by G.E. in the 1970's. This is called an "ICOM" which is a complete plug-in module.








     

     

     

     

     

     

    This may be copied in complete form only for non-profit purposes, such as for the knowledge for the Amateur Radio Service, with AK2O credited as designer. For other arrangements please contact the author.

    Copywrite: AK2O 2007

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