Note
This is the mobile version of the VL-2280 75-watt, all-mode amplifier. The two units are essentially identical in terms of the amplifier electronics. The difference is that the 1180 has no built-in power supply and no metering circuits. With these two components removed, the weight and physical size of the amp shrink considerably.
The 1180 requires 12 VDC (nominal) at 11 amps. With a suitably hefty power supply the 1180 can be used for base station as well as mobile operation.
Unlike the base station version, which features switch selection of an SSB TR relay drop-out delay, a relay drop-out delay (or lack thereof) in the 1180 must be chosen during assembly by means of a jumper wire. This isn’t a big problem if you operate only one mode, but if you switch between FM and SSB, you have to put up with either some relay chatter on SSB or a one-second TR drop-out delay on FM. Refer to Figure 1 and Detail A. The technically inclined person could install an external switch to make selection of the delay possible.
In spite of the fact that the amp worked very well, got great reviews, and had respectable sales, Heath sold the unit for only three years. For a detailed discussion of the amplifier, refer to VL-2280. The VL-1180 was a bargain in 1981 and is even more of a bargain today.
Caution: Do not exceed drive or duty cycle specifications (refer to VL-2280).
References:
Review. QST. May 1982, p. 38.
Review. 73. July 1982, p. 136
Power requirements: 11.5 to 15.0 VDC, 11 amps maximum (at 13.6 VDC)
Standby current: 3.0 mA
Refer to: VL-2280 for additional specifications
Photos, general information and specifications from "Heathkit: A Guide to the Amateur Radio Products," by Chuck Penson, WA7ZZE. Used with permission.
