SteppIR 80m Dipole, Instruction Manual

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Next, you will weatherproof and UV protect each joint with the black self-curing silicone tape see Fig-
ure 11. It is important that you pre-cut the silicone tape to the recommended lengths. If you do
so, you will have more than enough for each joint. Refer to Figure 13 for proper lengths for each joint.
In the event you require more silicone wrap, Home Depot electrical department carries Model HTP-
1010 Gardner Bender Silicone Rubber Fusion Tape, UPC code: 032076560102; and Radio Shack and
Wall-Mart are authorized retailers for the brand we buy, Tommy Tape.
IMPORTANT: Per the manufactures specifications the silicone tape has a shelf life of 12
months before it is used and should be stored in a cool dry environment. Silicone tape
will not stick to just any surface. It only bonds to itself. Be sure to remove all the
connector protector residue from your hands before handling silicone tape, as that
residue will cause the silicone wrap not to adhere to itself in places. Take care to keep
the silicone wrap free of dirt or debris. Also, this tape MUST be cut. Do not tear it.
Wash your hands before completing the following steps.
Position the black silicone tape about 1/2” to the right of the black electrical tape and wrap one layer,
continually stretching the silicone tape a minimum of 100 % its original length, completely around the
pole so the tape fully overlaps itself. Then slowly wrap the silicone tape to the left using half overlap
wraps, extending about 1/2” beyond the black electrical tape. When you reach the end, wrap one layer
completely around the pole so the tape fully overlaps itself just as you did at the beginning of the wrap.
If you are stretching the tape correctly you will get about two layers of tape at each joint. As before,
carefully stretch and lay the tape down as smooth as possible. The final joint should look like Figure
11.
Important: After the silicone tape has been applied, be sure to rub each wrap with your hand
several times to ensure that it is flat and has adhered to itself.
SteppIR Antennas - Dipole
10
Recommended Lengths for Silicone Tape Wrapping
A
B C
18 in / 46 cm
11 in / 28 cm
A -
C -
16 in / 41 cm B -
Figure 13