10
Modes of Operation
NORM Mode
The
NORM
mode is used when manually operating controller and primary intended use
for the ham bands. When in
NORM
mode, tune through bands simply by using frequency
band buttons. Controller will simultaneously adjust length of each element to the chosen
frequency band. The display shows what frequency antenna is tuning to, plus
Power/Tuning
LED will blink amber/green. Frequencies outside ham bands can also be
selected.
When controller is in
NORM
mode, selectable bands are pre-programed to get antenna
close to desired frequency. Most SteppIR antennas work very well over a 100 KHz
frequency range (minimum) except on 80 m. Bandwidth will depend on the antenna
model.
180 Mode
The
180
degree mode is one of the most popular among SteppIR users. The 180 mode
allows the user to electrically “rotate” antenna 180 degrees from the current
NORM
direction beam heading. This is done by simply pressing a button. In 2-1/2 seconds,
(shorter on higher frequencies, longer on lower frequencies) transformation is complete.
The existing reflector becomes a director and director becomes a reflector. The antenna
will now have a completely opposite pattern. With a two element Yagi, director becomes a
reflector. In addition to greatly reducing rotator use, many SteppIR users report the 180
function is an excellent tool for short path / long path operation or for picking up elusive
multipliers in the heat of a contest.
BI 3/4 Mode
The
BI 3/4
(BI stands for bi-directional) mode operates in a similar manner to 180 except
when enabled, gain occurs in both directions. There is approximately 2 dB less gain than
normal, but now gain occurs in both forward and reverse directions. This feature can be
very handy for those who are involved with net operation or contests where hearing (or
sending) signals from two directions are advantageous.
Main Screen
The display in the normal operate state depends on the antenna state and which antenna
is selected. The screen will contain:
Currently selected pattern
Antenna type
Bar graph displaying relative signal strength.
