LF Engineering H-800 SKYMATCH User manual

H-800 SKYMATCH Active Antenna
The H-800 is a compact broadband coverage
active antenna that effectively covers the
longwave through shortwave bands (10 kHz
through 50 MHz).
The sealed antenna probe consists of
impedance matching electronics and amplifier
which transform its internal short length wire
antenna into a 100 foot "long wire" equivalent.
The H-800 has very high E field sensitivity with
the advantage of good BC intermodulation
rejection. The H-800 is compact and totally
sealed
(no whip) providing the advantage
of reduced EMI interference.
The antenna is omni directional
allowing for various installation
configurations and for use as a
portable antenna. The H-800 probe
is waterproof and UV resistant.
Features
10 kHz to 50 MHz
broadband
coverage (no tuner
required)
50 ft of RG174/U
with RCA connector
included.
The antenna probe
is fully sealed and
does not use a
whip antenna.
Extended ESD and
RF protection.
Mounting clamp
included.
Low power
consumption, 10
ma typical.
Dual source power
design: Two
internal 9 volt
batteries or external
120 VAC / 12 VDC
supply (included)
H-800 Specifications
Antenna Probe Size 26 inches long, 1 inch dia. PVC
Coupler Size 4.19"L x 2.74"W x 1.57"H
Operating Frequency 10 kHz to 50 MHz + 3 dB
E Field Sensitivity -24 dB
IP3 23 dBm
Output Impedance 50 - 100 ohms
Operating Temperature -250F to +1200F
Weatherproofing Antenna probe tested to 2 atmospheres (-66 ft)
DC Power: 12 - 18 Volt, 10 ma, NEDA (2) or equivalent battery
AC Power: (included) 120 VAC / 12 VAC power pack with 2.5 mm plug
H-800 SKYMATCH Active Antenna
Product Warranty
LF Engineering Co. warrants that, at the time of shipment the products
manufactured by LF Engineering Co. are free from defects in material
and workmanship. LF Engineering Co. obligation under this warranty is
limited to replacement or repair of such products within 1 year from the
date of shipment.
For sales or return authorization, contact LF Engineering Co.
[phone]. For technical support call [phone].
Copyright LF Engineering Co., Inc.
All rights reserved.
Printed in U.S.A.
LF Engineering Co.
17 Jeffry Road
East Haven, CT 06513

Introduction:
The H-800 Active Antenna covers the full LF/HF/VHF spectrum from 10
kHz through 50 MHz. A proprietary low noise amplifier (2 wire feed)
insures ample gain throughout the operating spectrum. The output
impedance of the H-800 is 50 to 100 ohms, and is designed to match
most receivers in use today. For increased reception, a 10 ft length of
wire may be helically attached to the antenna. The Receiver Coupler
requires two 9 volt batteries (18V) for operation. An external 120 VAC /
12 VDC power supply is included for continuous operation.
Battery Installation:
Remove the 4 Philip head screws from
the four corners of the front panel. Lift
the panel/circuit board from the
cabinet and install two 9 volt batteries
onto the two battery clips. Reassemble
panel into cabinet. The battery life
with normal intermittent operation is
more than 1 year.
AC Power Supply:
The 120 vac / 12 vdc power supply plugs into the
2.5 mm jack located on the front panel. The ac
power supply may be used even with a battery
internally connected. The 2.5 mm plug disables
the internal battery when inserted into the panel
jack.
Installation:
1. Mount the antenna E probe in the clear 8 ft to 20 ft high in the clear,
preferably roof height. Use the stainless clamp supplied for
attachment to a vertical support pole.
a. A support pole may be any vertical structure made from wood,
metal or PVC that is between 1 and 2 inches in diameter. You may
use an external roof structure such as the top of a TV mast or roof
vent pipe. Note: The use of a vent pipe or any other large diameter
mounting surfaces will require a larger mounting clamp.
b. The support pipe should not be attached any higher than the
neoprene grip as shown in the illustration.
2. Connect the coupler output (RCVR) to the antenna input terminals of
your short-wave receiver with input impedance between 50 and 100
ohms.
3. Connect the antenna cable to the coupler (ANT) input. Longer lengths
of cable may be added.
a. Coax length may be extended 150 ft for a total of 200 ft max.
length. Some attenuation will occur above 30 MHz (3- 6 dB).
4. Turn the coupler on and your receiver on. The coupler LED will light
and your system is now ready for use.
How to Get the Most Out Of Your H-800 Active Antenna:
1. Keep your antenna in the clear and above metal objects (8 ft
minimum height) and use a good ground on your receiver.
2. When mounting onto a metal pole, mounting area should not exceed
the neoprene grip.
3. Use a cable strain relief (clamp, strap, tape) around the mounting
pipe and cable to reduce cable fatigue at the antenna.
4. Mount your antenna away from man made EMI such TV sets, light
dimmers and other noise generators.
5. If increased sensitivity is desired, a
coupling of helically wound wire
(10 ft max.) may be attached to the
H-800 antenna and extended to an
insulated support. It should be
observed that some BC intermod
may occur in some areas using this
scheme.