Automatic tuning
antenna system for multi-frequency HF radio mobile and base station communications
Designed to provide
automatic microprocessor controlled continuous tuning from 2 to 30 MHz
from
the transceiver
without the use of an antena tuning unit (ATU).
The Moonraker Type
AT230 Auto Tune antenna system is comprised of a 2.55m whip
(8.4ft) together
with the AT104 antenna control unit (ACU). Typical tuning time for one
channel frequency
to another is 1 to 2 seconds with maximum time dependent upon
channel separation.
The system is fully
automatic and on installation no further tuning or technician
programming is required.
It is robust, reliable and extremely rugged and has passed
extensive testing
in off road remote conditions, including tropical jungles and arid
environments, as
well as populated areas. The whip may be mounted low down on
the vehicle behind
the bull bar, on the bumper bar or even on the tow bar, and
relatively close
to the body work on forward control vehicles and buses.
Construction is of
anodised aluminium alloy tubing with a sealed lower section
housing the control
devices, mid section and stainless steel whip top section, which
may be easily removed
to facilitate garaging. Centre loading is utilised for maximum
performance and
a wide band HF amplifier, located in the antenna base section and
operated via the
ACU, provides enhanced reception of weak signals, particularly
when the receiver
is in scan mode.
The ACU, the interface
between the antenna and the transceiver, contains the sensor
and controlling
electronics. It is compatible with even basic transceiver types that are
able to provide
continuous RF for tuning purposes by arranging the ACU to control the
transceiver using
a remote PTT line, an external initiate switch and an audible tuning
indicator. Fully
automatic operation is possible with more sophisticated transceivers.
It can be installed
in any convenient position in the vehicle other than the engine bay
or can be used up
to 20m (65.6ft) from the antenna for base station installations.
SPECIFICATIONS
Frequency Range Any
frequency between 2-30 MHz
Channel Capacity
Infinite between 2-30 MHz, continuously variable
Length With whip
top: 2.55 metres (8.4 ft); with whip top removed: 1.3m (4.2ft)
Pattern Omnidirectional
Polarisation Vertical;
part horizontal (NVIS) possible
Input Impedance
50W (nominal)
VSWR 1.9:1 (typically
1.3:1)
Power Rating 140w
PEP
Power Consumption
Static: 100mA; tuning: 2A (typical); 12v DC nominal
Mountings (Antenna)
Anti-vibration mount, 12mm zinc plated steel stud, 30mm (1.2 in)
long, supplied with
nut and washers
Packed Weight Antenna
and control unit: 6 kg (13.2 lbs)