17
Startup and Operation
4
Startup and Operation
Precautions
CAUTION
A high voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) may indicate damaged trans-
mission line or incorrectly assembled components. This condition will
cause serious damage to your equipment when full power is applied.
The antenna
System sweep
(recommended)
Shively Labs strongly recommends that you perform a system sweep of your
transmission line and antenna while you have the installation crew on site.
Should any problems arise later with your antenna, it will be extremely helpful
to know what the system’s characteristics were when it was new. We recom-
mend you perform a system sweep after installation.
Many riggers can sweep your system after installation or recommend a con-
tractor to perform it. Alternatively, Shively Labs makes available instructions
for system sweep on our Web site, www.shively.com.
Checkout
Before beginning checkout of the antenna system, be sure the following items
have been done:
• The antenna system has been installed in accordance with this
manual and the installation drawing.
• The de-icer system, if purchased, has been checked out in accor-
• All radiators are operating and VSWR is low.
• System sweep data, if desired, have been recorded.
Check the system out as follows:
a. Bring up RF power slowly and observe transmitter readings, stability, and
general operation.
b. Run at about half power for at least an hour, reading forward and reflected
power, stability, etc.
c. If the system is stable and seems to be operating properly, bring it up to full
power. Take initial and periodic readings.
d. Performance readings should not change, and there should be no evidence
of heating in the antenna system.
Operation
CAUTION
Don't exceed the rated power capacity of the antenna.
To obtain the best performance and dependability, read and follow the mainte-
nance and troubleshooting recommendations in
of this manual.
The de-icer system
CAUTION
Don't leave the de-icer on for extended periods when the weather is
above 60° F (16° C); doing so may shorten the life of the heater ele-
ment(s).
