Note
QST, May 1980, p. 109. (series C)
The Ten-Tec Omni-Series C (Model 546) is a fully solid-state, broadband HF transceiver designed for 160 through 10-meter operation. Operating from a 12–14 VDC source (or via an external AC power supply), it features full break-in CW (QSK), 100% duty cycle rating, multi-mode offset tuning, internal noise blanker, and 6-digit LED frequency readout. It was the last iteration of the Omni series.
NEW Features
– New All 9 HF Bands: Full coverage from 160 through 10 Meters. Crystals supplied for seven bands (crystals for 18 and 24.5 MHz bands available when authorized).
– New 3-Mode, 2-Range Offset Tuning: Features Offset Receiver Tuning, Offset Transmitter Tuning, and Offset Transceiver Tuning with 2 selectable ranges (±500 Hz or 4 kHz).
– New Optimized Bandwidth: Offers up to seven response curves (four for SSB, three for CW). Standard 8-pole 2.4 kHz crystal ladder IF filter can be cascaded with optional 1.8 kHz SSB, 500 Hz CW, or 200 Hz CW 8-pole filters, combined with standard CW active audio filtering (450 Hz and 150 Hz).
– New Built-in Noise Blanker: Standard equipment utilizing a 2-pole monolithic crystal filter.
– Greater Dynamic Range: Typically better than 90 dB, with a PIN-diode switchable 18 dB attenuator on the RF gain control.
– New "Hang" AGC: Smoother automatic gain control response.
Features
– Broadbanded: Requires no transmitter tuning or loading adjustments.
– Optimized Receiver Sensitivity: Tailored sensitivity from 2 uV on 160 meters to 0.3 uV on 10 meters.
– Built-in Notch Filter: Variable null eliminates unwanted signals/carriers from 200 Hz to 3.5 kHz with a notch depth of over 50 dB.
– 2-Speed Break-in: Selectable "Fast" (full QSK) or "Slow" T/R switching speeds.
– WWV Reception: Dedicated 10 MHz band reception.
– Digital Readout: 6 shielded 0.43" LED digits (5 red, 6th 100-Hz digit in green).
– Separate Receiving Antenna Capability: Jacks available for separate receive antennas, instant break-in linears, or transverters.
– "S"/SWR Meter: Electronically switched combination meter.
– 200 Watts Input: Power rating on all bands into a 50-ohm load.
– 100% Duty Cycle: Rated for continuous full-power operation (ideal for RTTY/SSTV).
– Built-in VOX and PTT: Adjustable VOX with 3 front-panel controls; PTT jacks on front and rear panels.
– Built-in Phone Patch Jacks: Direct interface for audio input and output.
– Built-in CW Zero-Beat Switch: Enables precise transmitter alignment to a received station's frequency without transmitting.
– Built-in Adjustable Sidetone: Variable pitch and volume controls.
– Adjustable Threshold ALC: Full automatic level control from low power to full output.
– Front Panel Control of Linear or Antenna: Rear panel terminals for controlling external relays or accessory circuits.
– Automatic Sideband Selection: Normal auto selection with manual override on the mode switch.
– High Articulation Keying: 2.5 millisecond rise and decay time for clean CW keying.
– Built-in Speaker: Bottom-mounted, compression-loaded speaker with external speaker jacks on the rear panel.
– Plug-in Circuit Boards: Modular internal design.