Analyzer Method
Tuning
With the included whip, the Ranger 80 is capable of tuning from 3.5 MHz to 29.7 MHz with an SWR of less than 2:1. The
Ranger 80 is also capable of higher frequenices when paired with a telescopic whip such as our Light Duty Telescopic
whip. Use one of the following methods to get the antenna tuned:
Note: Dierent soils, radial configurations, and mounting options will aect the ground system of the Ranger 80. Depending on these factors, you may notice a dierence
in the SWR and resonant point of the system. This is normal and well documented behavior of any vertical antenna system. For further information we reccomend reading
Rudy Severns’ (N6LF) work on radial ground systems here: antennasbyn6lf.com/2009/12/series-of-qex-articles-on-ground-system-experiments.html
For the best performance we recommend using this method. This is the most accurate way to achieve the lowest
possible SWR on this antenna system. Once you’re familiar with the process changing bands should take less than a
minute.
1. Connect your coax to the coil base and analyzer.
2. Slide the tuning collar to the “ballpark” area of the band you wish to use. The higher the collar is the higher the resonant point.
(SEE FIG. 1)
3. Stand at least 10 feet from the antenna and run a sweep. If you stand too close, your body will detune the antenna and throw o
your measurements.
4. Note where the resonant frequency is and move the tuning collar the corresponding direction a few clicks at a time. Step away
each time and view the results on your analyzer. (SEE FIG. 2)
5. As you get closer to your target start moving the tuning collar one click at a time.
6. Once you’ve overshot your MHz target by one click take the tuning collar back one click and begin fine tuning.
7. To fine tune, spin the tuning collar either clockwise or counterclockwise. This will cause the tuning collar contact to follow the
groove between each wire like a screw.
8. Looking from the top of the coil, a clockwise turn will lower the resonant frequency and counterclockwise will increase the
resonant frequency. (SEE FIG. 3)
9. Slowly spin the tuning collar a small amount in the required direction and step away each time until the resonant point aligns
with your desired frequency. (SEE FIG. 4)
FIG. 2 - Since the target resonance is lower
than the current resonance, the tuning
collar must be moved down.
FIG. 3 - Spinning the tuning collar clockwise
lowers the resonant point. Spinning the
tuning collar counterclockwise inscreases
the resonant point.
FIG. 4 - After turning the tuning collar the
appropriate direction, the resonant point
directly aligns with the desired frequency.
FIG. 1 - Lowering the tuning collar results
in a lower MHz resonant point, raising it
increases the MHz.
SCAN TO VIEW
TUNING VIDEO
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