User manual

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IMPORTANT NOTE: The RF-Hot connection will radiate RF
from any wire connected to it. Not only is this an RF Hazard
within the station, but it can cause local interference both within
the station and in the vicinity depending on your power level.
The balanced feed connection is for a ladder line feed connecting
to a balanced antenna like a dipole or a loop.
3.3.3 Balanced vs. Unbalanced Antennas
An important distinction is between
balanced and unbalanced antennas.
Balanced antennas are electrically balanced
at the feed point. Typical balanced antennas
are dipoles and loops.
Unbalanced antennas need an RF
Ground or counterpoise to create
electrical balance and depend on the
quality of the ground for a high quality
radiated signal. Without a good quality
ground, unbalanced antennas will cause
interference, lead to RF in the radio
room, and be of very low efficiency due
to high losses in the ground. Typical
Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA. 98009
Shipping: 13737 SE 26
th
St. Bellevue, WA. 98005
Toll Free: 800-259-7331 * Phone: [phone] * Fax: [phone]
www.sgcworld.com * Email: [e-mail]
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unbalanced antennas are long wires and verticals.
3.3.4 Antennas with Feed Point Tuning
An antenna with a feed point tuner, such as an SGC Smartuner,
will work compatibly with the MAC-200. You can either leave the
MAC-200 to tune as it needs to or cut out the tuning function by
doing the following:
• Select the antenna
• Push the MANUAL button to disengage automatic tuning
• Press RESET to reset the coupler to bypass mode
• Push the LOCK button to lock the coupler.
3.3.5 Antenna Recommendations
There are many ways to connect antennas for use. Here are some
common examples that can help you get started with your MAC-
200. For additional information about antennas, we recommend
that you obtain a copy of our HF User’s Guide from our website at
XXXXXX. For detailed technical information about antennas, the
consistently best source is the ARRL Antenna Handbook.