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Motors Test
This feature is intended for testing the antenna on the ground for a new install or
maintenance. When performing the “Motors Test”, none of the18’ telescoping poles
should be installed at this point or the user won’t see the tape extend out approximately 1”
to 4”. This test allows verification that each element is indeed the one the controller thinks
it is and that it is wired correctly and not running backwards. If there is copper sticking out
at the end of testing any element, the motor for that element is incorrectly wired. The
stepper motors will run backwards if you swap the wires on either one of the motor
windings.
Before connecting the 25 pin connector on the control cable to the controller, plug in the
controller and turn it on. The screen should read “Elements Home”. If it does not run the
RETRACT
function. The screen will indicate that it is homing the elements and finish with
“Elements Home”. It is now safe to connect the 25 pin connector on the control cable to
the controller.
In the case of the “Remote Driver Board Option”, the element can be tested while the
antenna is on the ground. With the provided crossover cable that comes with the Remote
Driver Board Option, plug the controller into the remote driver board at the base of the
tower via the “Remote” CAT 5 plug. Refer to Remote Driver Board section for more
information.
WARNING:
Do NOT select any of the band buttons at this time. Without the 18’ poles
installed, if any of the band buttons are selected, the copper tape will come out of all the
element housings onto the ground. This could result in damage to the copper tape
requiring factory repair. Check to see if there is any copper tape sticking out of any of the
element housings. If there is copper sticking out run the “Calibrate” function and this will
bring the tape home.
If you are raising the antenna with the control cable attached, it is an excellent way to
verify all of the element cables are connected correctly. The purpose is to verify the
elements are wired correctly and correct element is moving. Also, some SteppIR
antennas have assembly tests that require probing element for a continuity test. If
element makes a chattering noise and doesn’t move, but then after a few seconds
extends out a few inches, motor may be wired incorrectly. If element doesn’t move at all,
it is either not plugged in, miswired, or controller has a bad driver chip. There is additional
troubleshooting information available on SteppIR website for these situations
Selecting Test Motors will first
RETRACT
all elements. Use the Element buttons to select
which element to test. There are two options: 1) cycle the element(s) or 2) send it out and
hold. Press the
Out
button to send element out and hold until
In
button is pressed. Press
Cycle
buttons to cause motor to send element out a few inches then back in
automatically.
Exit
will leave menu.
