Valcom VBBA2-30-18 User manual

TECHNICAL MANUAL
VTM-05-005/F
OPERATION AND INSTALLATION
INSTRUCTIONS
HF BROADBAND ANTENNA
MODEL VBBA2-30-18
Valcom Manufacturing Group, Inc
175 Southgate Drive, P.O.Box 603, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1H 6L3 Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Web Site: www.valcommfg.ca Email: [email protected]

VTM-05-005F
RECORD OF CHANGES
CHANGE NUMBER DATE TITLE OF BRIEF
DESCRIPTION ENTERED BY
- A - Dec 2005 Original Issue J.S.
- B - Feb 2006 Changed antenna from 18ft to 24ft J.S.
- C - Mar 2006 Added 19ft antenna information and
added performance charts J.S.
- D - Apr 2006 Changed system from separate antenna
and tuner to broadband style whip J.S.
- E - Aug 2011
Changed height from 19ft to 18ft, fixed
power rating and removed test
procedures and data for a more generic
format
J.S.
- F - Nov 2013 Complete re-format to match other
similar tech manuals J.S.

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Table of Contents
Section Page
1 GENERAL INFORMATION AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ......................... 1
1-1 General Safety Precautions ............................................... 1
1-2 SpecificWarnings ...................................................... 1
1-3 Introduction ........................................................... 2
1-4 EquipmentDescription .................................................. 2
1-5 RelationshiptoOtherEquipment .......................................... 2
1-6 ReferenceData......................................................... 2
1-7 EquipmentAccessories,andDocumentsSupplied ............................. 2
2 OPERATION ................................................................ 6
2-1 Introduction ........................................................... 6
2-2 ControlsandIndicators .................................................. 6
2-3 OperatingProcedures.................................................... 6
2-3.1 Operator Turn-on ................................................ 6
2-3.2 Modes of Operation .............................................. 6
2-3.3 Operation Under Interfering Conditions ............................... 6
2-3.4 OperatorTurn-off ................................................ 6
2-3.5 Emergency Operation ............................................. 6
2-3.6 EmergencyTurn-off .............................................. 6
3 FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION ................................................. 7
3-1 FunctionalDescription .................................................. 7
4 INSTALLATION ............................................................. 8
4-1 SiteInformation........................................................ 8
4-2 ToolsandMaterialsRequired ............................................. 8
4-3 UnpackingandRepacking................................................ 8
4-4 Foundation ............................................................ 8
4-5 Input Requirements ..................................................... 8
4-6 InstallationProcedures .................................................. 8
4-7 CablesandConnectors .................................................. 9
4-8 Installation Checkout .................................................... 9
5 MAINTENANCE ............................................................ 11
5-1 ScheduledMaintenance................................................. 11
5-2 CorrectiveMaintenance................................................. 11
5-2.1 GeneralRepairs ................................................ 11
5-2.2 CosmeticRepairs ............................................... 12
6 QUICKREFERENCEDATA .................................................. 13
6-1 General.............................................................. 13
6-2 Manufacturer’sAddress................................................. 13

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LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Figure Page
1-1 AntennaVBBA2-30 ...............................................3
4-1 Outline Drawing .................................................10
LIST OF TABLES
Table Page
1-1 ReferenceData....................................................4
1-2 PowerHandlingvsFrequencyTable...................................4
1-3 Equipment,AccessoriesandDocumentsSupplied ........................5
4-1 Cable and Connector Group Suggestions ...............................9

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SECTION 1
GENERAL INFORMATION AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1-1 GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS. The following general safety precautions are not
related to any specific procedures and therefore do not appear elsewhere in this publication.
Thesearerecommendedprecautions that personnel mustunderstandandapplyduringmany
phases of operation and maintenance.
WARNING
Keep away from live circuits. Operating personnel must at all times observe all safety
regulations, to prevent serious injury or death due to electrical shock.
Do not service or adjust alone. Under no circumstances should any person service or adjust
the equipment except in the presence of someone who is capable of rendering aid.
Personnel working with or near high voltages should be familiar with modern methods of
resuscitation.
1.2 SPECIFIC WARNINGS. The following specific precautions are related to inspecting and
removing the antenna.
WARNING
Ensure that the transmitting equipment is de-energized prior to inspection of the antenna.
Make sure the test equipment is properly grounded, to prevent electric shock.
CAUTION
Make sure the antenna is properly supported before removing its mounting hardware.
CAUTION
Do not coat the insulator with any substance; do not paint with lead base paints.

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1-3 INTRODUCTION. This manual provides general information, operating and functional
description, and installation data for Valcom's VBBA2-30-18 broadband antenna.
1-4 EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION. The VBBA2-30-18 Broadband Antenna (see figure 1-1) is
a whip antenna for general use with HF communications equipment. The antenna provides
verticallypolarized, omnidirectional azimuth radiation from5to 30 MHz whenthe antenna
is operated with a HF transceiver. It is designed for use under the severe environmental
conditions encountered aboard Naval vessels. It is used for either receiving or transmitting
high frequency signals. The antenna is a one piece antenna and is base mounted. The
mounting flange and insulator is a single integral part made from fibreglass.
1-5 RELATIONSHIPTO OTHER EQUIPMENT. TheVBBA2-30-18 Antenna interfaces with
the HF receiving and transmitting equipment.
1-6 REFERENCE DATA. Table 1-1 lists the reference data for the antenna.
1-7 EQUIPMENT ACCESSORIES, AND DOCUMENTS SUPPLIED. Table 1-3 lists the
equipment and documents supplied.

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Figure 1-1 Antenna VBBA2-30-18

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Table 1-1 Reference Data
PARAMETER SPECIFICATION
Nomenclature Antenna, VBBA2-30-18
Manufacturer 35736
Frequency Range 5-30 MHz
VSWR 2.0:1 Maximum
Polarization Vertical
Power Rating See Table 1-2 below
Azimuth Coverage Omnidirectional
Input Connection 7/8 EIA Flange (see Note 1)
Temperature -50ºC to 65ºC (-60ºF to 150ºF)
Wind Velocity 115 mph (185 kph) (51.4 m/s) (100 knots)
Humidity 0 - 100 %
Shock MIL-S-901D Grade A
Vibration MIL-STD-167-1A Type 1
NOTES: 1. For 1 kW operation, an 7/8 EIA to N adapter can be supplied (optional)
Table 1-2 Power Handling vs. Frequency Table
Frequency Range Maximum Power
Continuous-Duty Maximum Power Intermittent Duty1
5 to 10.999 MHz 1500 W 3000 W for 10 minutes
11 to 20.999 MHz 2000 W 3000 W for 15 minutes
21 to 29.999 MHz 2000 W 3000 W for 30 minutes
1. Duration for continuous-duty transmission, allowing antenna to cool to ambient between
transmissions
Table 1-3 Equipment, Accessories and Documents Supplied

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5
QTY NOMENCLATURE OVERALL DIMENSIONS (INCHES) WEIGHT (POUNDS)
UNCRATED
CRATED UNCRATED
HEIGHT DIA HEIGHT DIA
1 ANTENNA
VBBA2-30-18
P/N VD-11-00207-1
--- --- 216 13.0
Base 200
1 TECHNICAL
MANUAL FOR
VBBA2-30-18
ANTENNA
VTM-05-005
1 GROUND STRAP
P/N VC-97-00069-1
1 7/8-EIA to N-Type
ADAPTER
VC-06-00142-1
(NOTE: Optionally
installed for 1 kW or less
operation)
- 1/2" HELIAX CABLE
(LDF4-50A)
CONNECTOR
ANDREW P/N: L44R
(NOTE: Optionally
supplied for 1kW or
more operation)

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SECTION 2
OPERATION
2-1 INTRODUCTION. This chapter provides operating instructions for the antenna.
2-2 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS. The antenna contains no controls or indicators.
2-3 OPERATING PROCEDURES.
2-3.1 Operator Turn-On. No operator turn-on procedures apply since no power is required to
operatetheantenna.However,theantennaiscoupledtoRFequipment(transmitter/receiver)
and to associated systemswhich may require energizing. For operating instructions, consult
the appropriate technical manuals.
2-3.2 Modes of Operation. The antenna operates automatically, and no operator intervention is
required other than interconnecting the associated transmitter or receiver with the antenna.
2-3.3 OperationUnderInterferingConditions.Noadditionaloralternateinstructionsarenecessary
to operate the antenna under interfering conditions.
2-3.4 Operator Turn-off. Since no power is required to operate the antenna, no operator turn-off
is required. However, the specific equipment connectedtothe antenna mayrequire operator
turn-off. Consult the associated technical manuals for turn-off procedures.
2-3.5 Emergency Operation. No additional or alternate steps are necessary to operate the antenna
under emergency conditions.
2-3.6 Emergency Turn-off. The antenna requires no emergency turn-off. For emergency turn-off
of specific equipment connected to the antenna, consult the associated technical manuals.

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SECTION 3
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
3-1 FUNCTIONALDESCRIPTION. TheVBBA2-30-18BroadbandAntennaisabasemounted,
high-power antenna which provides omnidirectional coverage for general purpose
communications use from 5 to 30 MHz. The antenna consists of a radiating element, and a
fibreglassbaseinsulator/mountingflange.Theradiatingelementtapersfromapproximately
8.25 inches in diameter at the insulator to 4.0 inches at the top. The antenna base insulator
electrically isolates the radiating section of the antenna from the ground and physically
supports it. The insulator/mounting base is constructed of high-strength, laminated epoxy
fibreglass material. When assembled, the overall length of the antenna is approximately 18
feet. The broadband feature of the antenna means no antenna coupler is required. The
transmitter or receiver only is required to be connected to the antenna.

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SECTION 4
INSTALLATION
4-1 SITE INFORMATION. Valcom's VBBA2-30-18 HF Antenna is designed primarily for
shipboard installation. The antenna can also be used at shore installations. The antenna
should be installed in a non-obstructed environment, clear from any contiguous structures,
such as masts, bulkheads, or other metal objects.
4-2 TOOLS AND MATERIALS REQUIRED.
15/16" (normally) wrenches for 5/8" hardware for antenna base bolts (not provided).
7/16" wrenches for EIA-flange connector (nothing for N-type connector)
No other special tools and materials are required for installation.
4-3 UNPACKINGANDREPACKING.Table1-3givesdataontheoveralldimensions,volume,
and weight of the un-crated antenna. To unpack, carefully pry off the cover, and remove the
antenna from the container. Save the container to pack the antenna for reshipment. No
special handling procedures are required; observed normal precautions when handling the
antenna.
4-4 FOUNDATION.Theantennashouldbeinstalledvertically onamountingplatethathasbolt
holes matching those in the antenna base (see figure 4-1).
4-5 INPUT REQUIREMENTS. The antenna has an rf power handling capability of 3 kW in the
5 to 30 MHz frequency range.
4-6 INSTALLATIONPROCEDURES.Afterunpackingtheantenna,proceedwithitsinstallation
as follows:
a. Examine the exterior of the antenna for damage; make sure that the top of the lower
section and the bottom of the upper section has not been damaged, misaligned, or fractured.
b. Carefully lift the antenna to its mounting platform. Align the mounting holes of the base
flange with the mounting holes in the platform.
c. Secure the antenna to its mounting plate with using eight 5/8-11 hex head cap screws (not
provided), along with two flat-washers, a split-lock-washer and a nut. Bolt length will need
tobedeterminedbytheinstallingactivity. Afinaltorquebetween90-100ft-lbsisacceptable
for the bolts.
d. Make sure the groundstrap supplied with the antenna is connected to one of the mounting
bolts directly below the input connector on the antenna as shown in Figure 4-1.

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e. The VBBA2-30-18 antenna input is an 7/8 EIA Flange and is found on the base insulator
below the drip shields. Prior to connecting the system feedline, ensure the equipment has
been de-energized and proper lock out procedures followed. Once the lockout procedures
have been performed, connect the system feedline to the antenna. For 1 kW operation with
the antenna, an 7/8 EIA to N Adapter can be supplied for connecting to an N type feedline
cable connector. For more than 1 kW operation, a 7/8 EIA Flange can be supplied for the
feedline used. Ensure the ground wire supplied has a secure connection at the input
connector on one end and the other end to the antenna mounting bolt. Seal the ground
connection at both ends using the RTV sealant provided.
4-7 CABLES AND CONNECTORS. Other types of cables and connectors can be used to
connect the antenna’s input connector to the radio equipment. Some suggestions can be
found in table 4-1.
Table 4-1 Cable and Connector Group Suggestions
Group 1
(Heliax Cable) Cable: LDF4-50A (Andrew) (1/2" Dia., 50 ohm, 3 kW @ 30 MHz)
Connector: 7/8 EIA Flange L44R (Andrew)
Group 2
(Heliax Cable) Cable: LDF5-50T (Andrew) (7/8" dia., 50 ohm, 14 kW @ 30 MHz)
Connector: 7/8 EIA Flange L45R (Andrew)
Group 3
(1kW) Cable: RG-214/U Connector: N-type UG-21E/U
4-8 INSTALLATION CHECKOUT. Checkout of the antenna after installation can only be
accomplished by operating the receiving and transmitting equipment that is used with the
antenna.

VTM-05-005F
10
(27.30 CM) DIAMETER BOLT CIRCLE
EQUALLY SPACED ON A 10.75 IN
8 HOLES 0.69 IN (1.75 CM) DIA
(33.0 CM)
13.0 IN
(5.1 CM)
2.0 IN (5.49 M ±2.54 CM)
18FT ± 1 IN
(10.2 CM)
4.0 IN
INPUT
CONNECTOR GROUND STRAP CONNECTION
(AS SHORT AS POSSIBLE)
(19.6 CM)
7.7 IN
VIEW A - VIEW A - 5/8-11 UNC SST HEX-HEAD BOLT
5/8" FLAT WASHER (X2)
5/8" LOCK WASHER
5/8-11 UNC HEX NUT
(LENGTH DEPENDS ON MTG PLATE)
Figure 4-1 Outline Drawing

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SECTION 5
MAINTENANCE
5-1 Scheduled Maintenance
The antenna is virtually maintenance free. The external finish is a silicone alkyd paint. The
minimumfinish life before showing signs of deterioration should be at least six years under
normal climate conditions.
When used in salt-water environments, it is recommended to wash the antenna base with
fresh water to remove any build-up of dried salt residue. This must be performed on a
monthly basis, when exposed to sea-spray.
Use a small wire brush to clear any debris from the drain groove found in the bottom of the
antenna base.
Allthreadedhardware,includingthebasemountingbolts,thecountersunkscrewsatthejoint
and the input power connector should be inspected for signs of damage and to ensure proper
tightness (suggested torque settings can be found on pages 8 and 9). In most cases a quick
visual inspection is all that is required. This must be performed on a monthly basis or
whenever practical.
5-2 Corrective Maintenance
5-2.1 General Repairs
Generally, no corrective maintenance is possible or required. If one section is severely
damaged, it must be replaced by a new section. Workshops having experience in handling
epoxy fibreglass composite structures and/or aluminumconstruction mayattemptthe repair
of minor surface damage if practicable.
NOTE
DONOTUSELEADBASEPAINT TOTOUCH-UPORREPAINT
THE ANTENNA. USE ONLY EPOXY BASE PAINT.

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5-2.2 Cosmetic Repairs
The antenna has been designed to meet and tested to pass Naval Shock and Vibration
requirements (MIL-S-901 and MIL-STD-167 respectively). Under and beyond normal
expected environmental stresses onboard ships, this antenna will not suffer mechanical or
electrical failure. However, over the life of the antenna a seam may become visible just
above the top drip shield. This may appear to be a “crack” in the antenna. However, this is
only a surface crack in the paint layers and the filler material. This location is where the
aluminum radiator meets the fibreglass base and since these materials have different
coefficients of expansion, under high mechanical stress(es), the paint may crack under the
normal flexural movement of the materials. An example can be seen in the below
photograph.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE IN NO WAY WHATSOEVER IS THIS CRACK
RELATED TO A MECHANICAL FAILURE OF THE ANTENNA.
Should this occur, repairing is not considered to be necessary. Otherwise, to restore the
antenna’s cosmetic appearance, it can be refinished as follows:
- use a small scraper to remove all the loose paint flakes;
- lightly sand the area down;
- re-coat with a durable ship-board grade paint;
- if excessive filler material has fallen out, the groove can be filled back in with a
quality acrylic or silicone sealant after painting.

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SECTION 6
QUICK REFERENCE DATA
6-1 General
Manufacturer’s contact information can be found in Section 6-2.
6-2 Manufacturer's Address
Postal address: Shipping address:
Valcom Manufacturing Group, Inc
P.O. Box 603
Guelph, Ontario
Canada
N1H 6L3
Valcom Manufacturing Group, Inc
175 Southgate Drive
Guelph, Ontario
Canada
N1G 3M5
Or directly at:
Phone : (519) 824 - 3220
Fax : (519) 824 - 3411
e-mail : [email protected]
Internet : www.valcommfg.ca