Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the HLFEC ATU-130 Plus Automatic Antenna Tuner. The ATU-130 Plus is an advanced automatic antenna tuner designed for amateur radio enthusiasts, offering higher power capabilities than its predecessor, the ATU-130. It features an OLED display and a robust metal case, supporting a frequency range of 1.8-50MHz with a maximum working power of 200 watts. Please read this manual thoroughly before operation to ensure safe and effective use.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | ATU-130+ |
| Brand Name | HLFEC |
| DIY Supplies | Electrical |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Display Size | 2.9 Inches & Under |
| Certification | RoHS |
| Battery Included | No |
| High-concerned Chemical | None |
| Supply Voltage Range | 10-15 VDC (center is +) |
| Maximum Current Consumption | 500 mA |
| Maximum Working Power | 200 watts |
| Minimum Power to Start Tuning | 10W |
| Minimum Measurable Power | 0.1 watts |
| Measurement Accuracy (up to 10W) | 0.1 watts |
| Measurement Accuracy (over 10W) | 1 watt |
| Maximum Installation Inductance | 8.53μH |
| Minimum Inductance Step | 0.05μH |
| Maximum Installed Capacity | 1869 pF |
| Minimum Capacitance Step | 10 pF |
| Typical Consumption | 200-300 mA |
| Dimensions (excluding protrusions) | 155*88*38mm |
| Weight | 0.45kg |
Package Contents
Verify that all items are present and in good condition upon opening the package.
- 1 x ATU-130 Plus Automatic Antenna Tuner
- 1 x Power cable (DC plug to bare wire)
- 1 x Banana plug to DC power adapter (for power cable)
- 1 x RCA to BNC adapter
- 4 x Rubber feet
Product Overview
The ATU-130 Plus features a compact design with an OLED display for clear status indication. The front panel includes a power switch and control buttons for tuning. The rear panel provides antenna input/output connections and a DC 12V power input.
Setup Instructions
- Grounding: Ensure your antenna system is well-grounded. If direct grounding is not possible, connect the grounding terminal of the antenna tuner to the short-wave machine's grounding point.
- RF Connections:
- Connect the RF inlet of the antenna tuner (labeled "IN") to the RF outlet of your short-wave radio using a radio frequency cable.
- Connect the RF outlet of the antenna tuner (labeled "ANT") to your antenna.
Antenna Recommendation: For optimal performance, it is recommended to set up the antenna at a height of 3-6 meters above the ground with a length of 7-22 meters (using wire of 4 square meters or greater). Implement lightning protection measures for antennas installed at high elevations.
- Power Connection: Connect the provided power cable to the DC 12V input on the antenna tuner. The power supply should be within the 10-15 VDC range (center pin positive). This power source can often be shared with your short-wave radio.
- Initial Power On: Switch on the power of your short-wave radio, then switch on the power of the antenna tuner. The equipment should perform a self-check and display normal status on the OLED screen.
Operating Instructions
- Prepare for Tuning:
- Adjust your short-wave transmitter to the desired operating frequency.
- Set the working mode of your short-wave radio to AM, FM, CW, FT8, RTTY, or any other mode that provides a continuous carrier signal.
- Initiate Automatic Tuning:
- Press the short-wave transmitter's PTT (Push-To-Talk) button or the CW key to trigger transmission.
- Transmit with a continuous power of at least 10W.
- The antenna tuner will automatically begin the tuning process.
- Tuning Completion:
- Once the Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) is reduced to less than 1.5, the antenna tuner will automatically stop tuning and cease transmission.
- At this point, for the current frequency, you can change your short-wave radio to your desired operating mode and transmit with high power.
- Frequency Band Changes: When switching to a different frequency band, the tuning operation must be performed again.
- Manual Reset/Retune: If the antenna tuner does not achieve an SWR below 1.5, press the "TUNE" button to reset the tuning process. Repeat steps 1-3.
- Manual Mode: To enter manual mode, press the "AUTO" button. The small dot (LC indicator) in the middle of the screen will disappear, indicating manual mode. Press "AUTO" again to switch back to automatic mode.
- Reset LC Combination: In special cases, pressing "TUNE" can also reset the LC combination to zero.
Important Safety Note: Never transmit with high power if the antenna tuner is not tuned or if the SWR is greater than 1.5. Doing so may cause damage to both the antenna tuner and your short-wave radio.
Troubleshooting
- Tuner Fails to Tune (SWR > 1.5 after tuning attempts):
- The impedance of your antenna feed system may be outside the tuning range of the ATU-130 Plus. Consider adjusting your antenna or checking its integrity.
- Verify proper grounding. Ensure the antenna is well-grounded or connected to the short-wave machine's ground.
- No Tuning Action on the Antenna Tuner:
- Check all cable connections, especially the RF cables to the "IN" and "ANT" ports, and the DC 12V power cable. Ensure they are securely connected.
- Confirm the antenna tuner is in automatic mode (if desired). Press the "AUTO" button if the LC indicator dot is not visible.
- Ensure your short-wave radio is set to a continuous carrier mode (AM, FM, CW, FT8, RTTY, etc.).
- Verify that the tuning power transmitted by your short-wave radio reaches the minimum trigger condition (more than 10W).
- Inspect the antenna for any faults or damage.
- Damage Prevention: If the standing wave is too large and tuning is unsuccessful, do not transmit with high power. This can damage the equipment. Troubleshoot and resolve the issue before attempting high-power transmission.
Maintenance
The ATU-130 Plus is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the tuner in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
- Connections: Periodically check all cable connections for tightness and signs of wear.
- Environmental Protection: Protect the unit from moisture and dust.
User Tips
- For best results, ensure your antenna is properly installed and grounded before attempting to tune.
- When first setting up, start with low power (e.g., 10W) for tuning to prevent potential damage.
- If you frequently change frequencies, remember to re-tune the antenna for optimal performance on each new band.
- Consider using a dedicated 12V power supply for the tuner if sharing with the radio causes any instability.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the seller's policies or contact the point of purchase. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
