Maco Antennas BA1 Assembly Instructions - Maco
MACO
®
BA1
10/11 METER BALCONY ANTENNA
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Figure 1 General Instructions
This drawing shows a view of the antenna assembled. The Maco Balcony
Antenna may be used in the vertical or horizontal mode. These instructions and
Figures 1 through 5 show the correct assembly procedures. It is highly
recommended that rope be put in the element to prolong element life if the
antenna is to remain assembled and not taken apart frequently. This is done to
reduce harmonic vibration from the wind.
Figure 1 Element Assembly and Mounting
Fasten the boom to element mount (BE1P) onto the end of the boom as shown in
figure 5 using U bolt (U02), Saddle (S02) and Nuts (N03). Do not tighten the
boom to element mount at this time. Insert 5/8” element (T11P) into the boom to
element mount (BE1P) and center the element in the mount. Loosely tighten the
boom to element mount at this time. Insert a length of the ½” OD tubing (TO4)
into each end of the center element (T11P). Adjust each element (T03) with the
dimensions shown in Figure 3 for the frequency you are going to use the antenna
on. After the correct element length is set install the element clamp (W58P),
screw (S21), and nut (N11) as shown in Figure 4.
Figure 2 Mounting the Antenna
To mount the Balcony Antenna to a wrought iron railing, use the u-bolts (U02)
and nuts (N03) provided, according to Figure 2. To mount the Balcony Antenna
to a wooden railing, use the screws (S30) and washers (GH14) provided in
place of the u-bolts.
Figure 5 Gamma Match Mounting
Mount the gamma match (G01P) to the driven element, using the gamma straps
(Z02P, Z08P) and attaching hardware as shown in Figure 5. Make sure the
gamma mounting bracket (Z08P) is touching the boom to element mount (BE1P).
The (Z08P) brackets must remain in this position at all times. They should not be
moved for SWR adjustment.
Figure 5 Adjusting the Standing Wave Ratio (SWR)
Refer to Figure 5. The dimensions given are approximate and should be used as
a starting point. The gamma match has two adjustments. First is the capacitor
adjust and second is the slider adjust. Connect an SWR meter between your
transmitter and the antenna and check the SWR. If adjustment is required, loosen
the clamp on the gamma match and the screws holding the slider gamma straps
(Z02P). Next move the capacitor adjustment first one direction, then the other
direction until a minimum SWR reading is obtained. If the SWR is not yet
satisfactory, move the slider out 2” away from the boom. If the reading has gone
up move the slider (Z02P) back to the original position and then 2” towards the
boom.
Now readjust the capacitor for minimum SWR. You should now be able to
determine which direction to move the slider. Repeat the above procedure
moving the slider in smaller increments until a satisfactory SWR is obtained.
Tighten all hardware.