Alpha Antenna Alpha Multiband Antenna User manual

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User Guide
for the
Tuner Free & Directional
Alpha Multiband Antenna
Manufactured by:
Alpha Antenna
1.888.48 .3 49
Website: http://AlphaAntenna.com
User Guide Version .
June 9, 017

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Table of Contents
Safety Information...........................................................................................................3
Excess RF Exposure Warning ........................................................................................4
SECTION 1 – Concept of Operation ...............................................................................5
SECTION 2 – System Overview .....................................................................................7
Equipment Description....................................................................................................7
Equipment Characteristics ..............................................................................................7
SWR................................................................................................................................8
Leading Particulars........................................................................................................11
SECTION 3 – General Information................................................................................12
Site Selection................................................................................................................12
Assembly Overview.......................................................................................................12
Vehicular Installation.....................................................................................................12
Disassembly Procedures...............................................................................................12
Repackaging Procedures..............................................................................................12
Maintenance..................................................................................................................12
SECTION 4 – Specific Deployments.............................................................................13
Option A – Tripod Deployment......................................................................................13
Option A.1 – Instructions...............................................................................................13
Option A.2 – Image .......................................................................................................13
Option B – Jaw Mount Deployment...............................................................................14
Option B.1 – Instructions...............................................................................................14
Option B.2 – Image .......................................................................................................14
Option C – Mobile Deployment .....................................................................................15
Option C.1 – Instructions...............................................................................................15
Option C.2 – Image.......................................................................................................15
Support..........................................................................................................................16
REPORTING ERRORS AND RECOMMENDING IMPROVEMENTS
You can help improve this manual. If you find any mistakes or if you know of a way to
improve the procedures, please let us know. Mail or email us a marked copy to the contact
information on the last page of this manual.
REPORTING EQUIPMENT IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS (EIR)
If your Alpha Multiband Antenna needs improvement, let us know. You, the user, are the
only one who can tell us what you don’t like about your equipment. Mail or email us an EIR
to the contact information on the last page of this manual.

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Safety Information
When installing or operating this antenna or any other antenna/tower, please observe the
following safety tips.
NOTE – High voltages are present when transmitting, no matter how much or little power is
applie . Do not touch any part of the antenna while transmitting.
WARNING: INSTALLATI N R PERATI N F THIS PR DUCT NEAR P WER LINES IS
DANGER US! F R Y UR SAFETY, F LL W THE ENCL SED INSTALLATI N DIRECTI NS. TH UGH
THIS ANTENNA IS C NSTRUCTED WITH INSULATEDMATERIALS, PR PER CARE MUST BE TAKEN
DURING INSTALLATI N. INSTALLER ASSUMES ALL LIABILITY F R PR PERTY AND LIFE SAFETY.
YOU, YOUR ANTENNA, AND SAFETY
Each year, hundreds of people are killed, mutilated, or receive severe and permanent injuries
when attempting to install an antenna. In many of these cases, the victim was aware of the
danger of electrocution, but did not take adequate steps to avoid the hazard. For your safety,
and to help you achieve a good installation, please READ and FOLLOW the safety precautions
below. THEY MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE!
1. If you are installing an antenna for the first time, please, for your own safety as well as
others, seek PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE.
. Select your installation site with safety, as well as performance, in mind. REMEMBER:
ELECTRIC POWER LINES AND PHONE LINES LOOK ALIKE. FOR YOUR SAFETY, ASSUME THAT ANY
OVERHEAD LINES CAN KILL YOU.
3. Call your electric power company. Tell them your plans and ask them to come take a look at
your proposed installation. This is a small inconvenience, considering YOUR LIFE IS AT STAKE.
4. Plan your installation procedure carefully and completely before you begin. Successful raising
of a mast or tower is largely a matter of coordination. Each person should be assigned a specific
task, and should know what to do and when to do it. One person should be designated as the
leader/coordinator of the operation to call out instructions and watch for signs of trouble.
5. When installing your antenna, REMEMBER: DO NOT USE A METAL LADDER. DO NOT WORK
ON A WET OR WINDY DAY. DO DRESS PROPERLY: shoes with rubber soles and heels, rubber
gloves, long sleeved shirt or jacket.
6. If the assembly starts to drop, get away from it and let it fall. Remember, the antenna, mast,
cable and metal guy wires are all excellent conductors of electrical current. Even the slightest
touch of any of these parts to a power line completes an electrical path through the antenna
and the installer – THAT’S YOU!
7. If ANY PART of the antenna system should come in contact with a power line, DON’T TOUCH
IT OR TRY TO REMOVE IT YOURSELF. CALL YOUR LOCAL POWER COMPANY. They will remove
it safely. If an accident should occur with the power lines, call for qualified emergency help
IMMEDIATELY.

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Excess RF Exposure Warning
In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission has established guidelines
for human exposure to Radio Frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields. The commission’s
requirements are detailed in parts 1 & 2 of the FCC’s rules and regulations {47 CFR,
1.1307(b), 1.1310, 22.1091, 2.1093}. It is the responsibility of the owner/operator of this
device to follow all applicable warnings and precautions regarding human exposure to RF
fields.
The FCC Office of Engineering Technology (OET) Bulletin 65, Supplement B, Evaluating
Compliance with FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio frequency Electromagnetic
Fields directly concerns the use and operations of all Alpha Antenna systems. This bulletin
establishes safe operating distances from antennas associated power levels in order to
permit the operator and persons who may be impacted by operation to exist in a safe
environment. Guidelines for Maximum Permissible Exposure, or MPE, are defined in
Supplement B of the bulletin.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Refer to the above mentioned Supplement B along with FCC OET Bulletin 65, Version 97-
01. The information in the supplement provides additional details that are used for
evaluating compliance of amateur radio stations with FCC guidelines for exposure to radio
frequency electromagnetic fields. Supplement B users should, however, also consult
Bulletin 65 for complete information on FCC policies, guidelines, and compliance related
issues. Definitions of terms used in this supplements appear in Bulletin 65. Bulletin 65 can
be viewed and downloaded from the FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology’s web
site at: http://www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety

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SECTION 1 – Concept of Operation
The tuner free & directional Alpha Multiband Antenna is a multipurpose antenna system,
which can be configured to launch your signal at your target.
Many short-range HF communication circuits use vertical whip antennas that are not
directional. With these antennas, communications are achieved on very short ranges by
ground-wave (surface-wave propagation), and longer paths are achieved by sky-wave
propagation. An inherent characteristic of radio-wave propagation, using whip antennas, is
the zone of silence (skip zone) between the point where the ground-wave signal becomes
unusable and the sky-wave signal starts to become usable (Ref. Radio Amateur’s
Handbook, Ionospheric Propagation, most editions). Depending upon terrain, ground
conductivity, operating frequency, noise levels, etc., ground-wave signals are usable up to
about 70 miles over average soil. Also, minimum distances for sky-wave paths, using whips,
are generally 200 miles (E-layer) during the day and 400 miles (F-layer) at night.
While the skip zone, described above, severely limits the usefulness of whip antennas for
short-range communications, conditions become even worse in an adverse environment,
such as a hilly or forest-type terrain. This occurs because of the restricted range of ground-
wave signals in these environments.
The inverse distance field is the field that would be present if there were no attenuation due
to the surface over which the signal is propagated. The strongest practical signals occur
over seawater.
As the soil conductivity decreases or as the foliage increases, the signal strength at a
distance decreases rapidly. The important consideration for communications is not the
value of signal level, but the signal-to-noise ratio.
Good ground-wave communications are expected at 25 miles at any time of the day for
good ground conditions, and the range may be as much as 100 miles for a couple of hours
at midday. However, if the environment is dense forest instead of good ground, the
maximum ground-wave communication range may be 1 mile or less.
From the above discussion, it is clear that a skip zone is present when vertical whip
antennas are used. The extent of the skip zone is dependent upon soil conditions. For
average environments, the skip zone lies between 70 and 200/300 miles; however, in
extreme environments, it may include the range from 1 to 200/300 miles. The skip zone is of
a very critical range for most tactical communication systems including man-pack, vehicular,
and shelter equipment. Most tactical requirements necessitate good communications in the
0 to 300-mile range. If HF communications are to be effective in this range, different
antennas and propagation modes are necessary.
The solution to the short-range communication problem is the use of sky-wave instead of
ground-wave propagation on the short paths. This requires radiation from the antenna at
very high elevation angles NVIS (near vertical incidence sky-wave). This is accomplished by
deploying the MilStick vertical element simultaneously with the horizontally sloped NVIS
element. Radiation characteristics of the vertical element enhance DX, while radiation
characteristics of the NVIS type are achieved through the use of the NVIS element mounted

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above ground. Such radiation characteristics are omnidirectional in azimuth and provide an
l-hop range of about 300 miles. The antenna gain varies mainly with the height of the
antenna above ground.
Because it is highly desirable to have minimum height and weight for tactical antennas, the
immediate problem becomes one of determining the minimum effective antenna height
required. In order to determine the required antenna height, a minimum acceptable level of
performance is established as necessary to permit communications.
The required effective height of the antenna is found by considering the following; when a
horizontal antenna is close to ground, energy is radiated in two modes. The desired NVIS
mode produces radiation with a maximum in the vertical direction. The undesirable
Beverage mode creates a vertical electric field between the conductor and ground,
producing vertically polarized ground-wave signal with a maximum pattern in the direction
off the NVIS wire end. Due to the proximity of the antenna to ground, this latter mode has
an efficiency that is generally poorer than a whip. To negate the undesirable mode, the
vertical MilStick whip is deployed simultaneously with the NVIS element.
The shape of the radiation pattern of the horizontally sloped NVIS element is essentially
constant for heights not exceeding one-quarter wavelength. For a fixed height above
ground, the amount of the input power radiated proportionately in each of these modes is a
function of the relative percentage of the antenna input resistance characterizing each
mode. Each of these, in turn, is a function of the height above ground. The total input
resistance is that portion due to the NVIS mode as the NVIS height is varied. As the height
increases, a larger part of the input signal is radiated in the NVIS mode. These resistances
are typical of these encountered over average ground.
For example, an antenna at an effective height of 0.070 wavelength is about 5 feet at 7.000
MHz. The result of this example enables an effective height for a signal at 0.070 wavelength
to be achieved by elevating the horizontal NVIS element so that is mounted between two 5-
foot supports where the NVIS element is horizontally mounted, or by a sloping the NVIS
element so that it is connected on the top bolt of the Alpha Match and sloped down to the
ground in the same manner that a guy wire would be deployed. An advantage of the sloping
NVIS configuration is the vertically polarized component, which produces desired affects at
low frequencies and also permits compatibility with whip antennas where DX propagation
conditions permit.
Using the above examples, you will be able to derive then that the optimum NVIS and DX
characteristics are exhibited when the Alpha Match is placed at a height of between 5-7
feet. Adding or retracting from the default configuration of this balanced antenna system will
change the performance characteristics for the frequencies it is designed to operate on.

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SECTION 2 – System Overview
This instruction manual contains technical data, installation procedures, theory of operation,
and an illustrated parts list covering the Alpha Multiband Antenna and optional components.
The antenna was designed to be used with HF radios.
Table 1-1 SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE EQUIPMENT
PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF AVAILABLE EQUIPMENT
MTCH-2.1 A capacitive induction matching network in a 316 Stainless Steel
housing fitted for mounting the MLSTK-2.1.XX antenna on
vehicles, shelters, or man-packs equipped with HF radios.
MLSTK-2.1.13 A heavy duty 13 foot long MilStick whip antenna that breaks down
into 13 inch sections and mounts upon the MTCH-2.1, which may
be used directly with HF radios.
MLSTK-2.1.26 A heavy duty 13 foot long MilStick whip antenna that breaks down
into 26 inch sections and mounts upon the MTCH-2.1, which may
be used directly with HF radios.
TRPDLTWGHT-2.1 The lightweight tripod that the MTCH2.1 can mount upon.
TPD-HD-FMJ-2.1 The heavy duty tripod that the MTCH2.1 can mount upon, which
when collapsed can encapsulate the entire antenna system in a
full metal jacket enclosure.
NVIS-2.1 A 25’ element that connects to the top of MTCH-2.1 that is placed
in a sloped orientation to enhance NVIS characteristics.
JWMNT-2.1 The stainless steel Jaw Mount that the MTCH2.1 can mount upon.
GND-2.1 Ground wire that attaches to the
bottom bolt of MTCH-2.1
MSTMNT-2.1 The top of mast mount that the MTCH2.1 can mount upon.
FLDBG40-2.1,
FLDBG30-2.1, or
FLDBG16-2.1
The optional black 600D nylon Heavy Duty Field Bag,
Equipment Description
Physically the Multiband antenna consists of one each of the MLSTK-2.1.xx MilStick whip
constructed of 7075-T9 lightweight aluminum mast sections, MTCH-2.1 capacitive induction
matching network in a 316 Stainless Steel housing, NVIS-2.1 horizontal memory free wire
element with a tensile strength of 500 pounds that is rated for temperatures from -40°C to
+75°C, FLDBGxx-2.1, and at least one of the following TPD-HD-FMJ-2.1, TRPDLTWGHT-
2.1 or JWMNT-2.1 (Ref. descriptions in Table 1-1). The antenna can be transported and
deployment is accomplished in approximately 5 minutes.
Equipment Characteristics
The Alpha Multiband Antenna is designed to simultaneously provide high-angle radiation
(near vertical incidence – NVIS) and low-angle radiation (long-range and DX) propagation.
The targeted deployment variable includes the ability to launch your signal in the opposite
direction the NVIS element is run away from the base of the antenna. Based upon how the
tripod is tilted & NVIS element is deployed, this can provide directional propagation between
0 to 90 degrees above the horizon. While the NVIS element enhances short-range sky

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wave propagation, which varies from 0 to 300 miles, the Vertical element in tandem with the
NVIS element enables long-range & DX propagation for distances greater than 300 miles.
The Alpha Multiband Antenna may be used with tactical HF (high frequency) radios on the
frequency range of 3.5 to 29.7 MHz (54.0 MHz when mounted on the tripod options) with a
maximum RF power of 500 watts PEP SSB, 250 watts CW, or 100 watts digital.
SWR
The following two analysis are certified as accurate using a calibrated AIM 4300 from Array
Solutions and Rig Expert AA-54. These results are categorically based upon the
recommended deployment scenarios in Section 4, per the scenario indicated on the
heading for each graphic.

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SWR Analysis on Tripod

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SWR Analysis on Jaw Mount

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Lea ing Particulars
Leading particulars and equipment for the Alpha Multiband Antenna are listed in Tables 1-2
through 1-4. Personnel should become thoroughly familiar with data and procedures
contained in the entire technical manual before working on or using the antenna.
Table 1
-
2 Leading Particu
lars
ITEM LEADING PARTICULARS
Electrical Characteristics:
Frequency range
Polarization
RF power capacity (watts)
Input impedance
3.5-29.7 MHz (54 MHz when mounted
upon an optional tripod)
Horizontal and Vertical polarization
500 PEP SSB, 250 CW, or 100 digital
50 ohms
Radiation Pattern:
Azimuth
Elevation
Omnidirectional/Semi-Directional
NVIS & DX
Physical Characteristics:
Wind and ice
Maximum Height erected
Minimum foot-print required
Minimum Weight
MilStick survives 70 MPH wind with no ice
13 feet when mounted on the Jaw Mount
and 19 feet when mounted upon an
optional tripod
3 foot by 3 foot + 25 foot NVIS-2.1
2.00 pounds (MTCH-2.1 & MLSTK-2.1.XX)
Packed Dimensions:
Maximum Length
Maximum Diameter
30 inches
Less than 7 inches

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SECTION 3 – General Information
Site Selection
For maximum antenna operating efficiency, the Alpha Multiband Antenna should be located
in the center of a clear area. Installation of the antenna near any tall metal object or under
heavy foliage should be avoided. Under no circumstances should structures come in
contact with the antenna.
Assembly Overview
Assembly procedures for the Alpha Multiband Antenna are given in the following
paragraphs. Erection can be accomplished in 5 minutes.
Vehicular Installation
6-40 Meter mobile operations requires an external broad-band antenna tuner is enabled by
installing optional MOTOSPRG-2.1, MOTOFRL-2.1 and MOTOWHIP-2.1 on MTCH-2.1, all
of which is then installed on the optional vehicular mount JAM-2.1. When parked,
MOTOFRL-2.1 and MOTOWHIP-2.1 can be removed, and MLSTK-2.1.XX and/or NVIS-2.1
can be installed on the top bolt of MTCH-2.1 to enhance your operating experience.
Disassembly Proce ures
Disassembly is performed in the reverse order of assembly. Wire elements should be
disassembled by recoiling those radiating elements using the following steps; a) First pull
the anchor stakes and leave them on the ground. b) Return to the distill end of the stakes
and coil each element, pulling the stakes towards you as it is coiled. Otherwise kinks in the
wire may result and the elements may become entangled. c) Secure the elements in place
with a Velcro strap.
Repackaging Proce ures
When a field bag is used, insert MTCH-2.1 in the front zipper pocket and secure it closed
with the zipper. The larger zippered compartment will hold all other items except
MOTOWHIP-2.1. Insert all items, except MOTOWHIP-2.1, into the larger of the two
zippered compartments in the bag and secure it closed with the zipper.
Maintenance
Apply electrical joint compounds to each silver colored insert to protect against oxidation
and ensure a proper electrical connection between aluminum, such as OxGuard, Noalax, or
Penetrox.

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SECTION 4 – Specific Deployments
Options A through C represent the various Specific Deployment options.
Option A – Tripo Deployment
Option A.1 – Instructions
Step 1 – On the tripod, loosen the leg braces, extend the legs, & secure the legs
Step 2 – Mount tripod on a flat stable surface. (Important Note – We recommend
supporting the tripod with your own guy ropes)
Step 3 – Place the GND-2.1 ring connector over the bottom bolt on MTCH-2.1
Step 4 – Screw the MTCH-2.1 in place onto adapter on the Tripod
Step 5 – Push the stake on GND-2.1 into an earth ground.
Step 6 – Place the NVIS-2.1 ring connector over the top bolt on MTCH-2.1
Step 7 – Assemble MLSTK-2.1.XX & screw it into the top of MTCH-2.1
Step 8 – Attach your coax from your tuner to the SO-239 on MTCH-2.1
Option A.2 – Image

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Option B – Jaw Mount Deployment
Option B.1 – Instructions
Step 1 – Install JWMNT-2.1 on a stable support
Step 2 – Place and secure the Ring Connector of GND-2.1 onto the bottom stainless
steel bolt of MTCH-2.1
Step 3 – Screw the MTCH-2.1 in place onto JWMNT-2.1
Step 4 – Push the stake on GND-2.1 into an earth ground.
Step 5 – Place the NVIS-2.1 ring connector over the top bolt on MTCH-2.1
Step 6 – Assemble MLSTK-2.1.XX & screw it into the top of MTCH-2.1
Step 7 – Attach your coax from your tuner to the SO-239 on MTCH-2.1
Option B.2 – Image

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Option C – Mobile Deployment
When mobile or stationary mobile HF communications are required, these Mobile
Deployment options can be used.
Option C.1 – Instructions
Configuration a) When operating mobile:
Step 1 – Install JAM-2.1 to a high stable metal part of your vehicle.
Step 2 – Insert MOTOWHIP-2.1 into MOTOFRL-2.1 and tighten the hex nuts on
MOTOFRL-2.1. Screw MOTOFRL-2.1 into MOTOSPRG-2.1. Screw MOTOSPRG-2.1
onto MTCH-2.1.
Step 3 – Remove the extra stainless steel nut located at the bottom of the MTCH-2.1.
Insert the 24x3/8 stud in the hole of the Alpha Antenna Jam Mount and replace the nut.
Use two wrenches to ensure the bottom nut is tight & DO NOT twist the MTCH-2.1 while
tightening; all the while holding the other nut with the other wrench.
Step 4 – Attach your coax from your wide-band tuner to the SO-239 on the MTCH-2.1.
Configuration b) When operating stationary mobile:
Step 1 – Install JAM-2.1 to a high stable metal part of your vehicle.
Step 2 – Remove the stainless steel nut located at the bottom of the MTCH-2.1. Insert the
24x3/8 stud in the hole of the Alpha Antenna Jam Mount and replace the nut. Use two
wrenches to ensure the bottom nut is tight & DO NOT twist the MTCH-2.1 while
tightening; all the while holding the other nut with the other wrench.
Step 3 – Place the GND-2.1 ring connector over the bottom bolt on MTCH-2.1
Step 4 – Place the NVIS-2.1 ring connector over the top bolt on MTCH-2.1
Step 5 – Assemble MLSTK-2.1.XX & screw it into the top of MTCH-2.1
Step 6 – Attach your coax from your wide-band tuner to the SO-239 on the MTCH-2.1.
Option C.2 – Image
Configuration a) Configuration b)

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Support
If you have any questions or problems with your Alpha Antenna, please contact us.
You can reach us via:
Email – suppo[email protected]
Phone – 1-888-482-3249
Web – www.AlphaAntenna.com
Our mailing address is:
Alpha Antenna
112 East Commercial Street
Pleasant Hill, MO 64080