5
Introduction
(John Mertel WA7IR)
The SDR 2000 OptimizIR controller is the latest in SteppIR’s innovative line of products
that bring enjoyment and high-performance to the amateur radio service. For many, this
controller is an upgrade from either the original controller, or the SDA 100. The OptimizIR
is also being upgraded on a large quantity of new antenna purchases, so this may be the
first time these users have had experience with any SteppIR controller. We have created
this instruction manual to address the needs of both users.
The OptimizIR provides a new way to interact with the SteppIR antenna. We have spent
significant time developing this product, and have had extensive feedback from customers
on the design. We also worked with a team of beta testers to make sure we have a first-
class antenna controller to be used seamlessly with your SteppIR antenna.
Many of the features that are standard in the OptimizIR controller have been around for a
while in our other controllers, available for purchase. The primary difference is that in the
OptimizIR, these options are now included as standard features:
Transceiver Interface; This enables automatic adjustment of each antenna element of as
the radio tunes. Wherever the radio tunes to, the SteppIR faithfully follows!
Tuning Relay. The lock-out relay connects via a PTT cable to a RF power amplifier and
prevents transmitting high level RF while the SteppIR antenna is being tuned. When
operating with over 200 watts, it is prudent to not hit your antenna with that RF while it is in
a mismatch.
Advanced Lightning Protection (ALP). Each driver chip inside the OptimizIR has an
isolation relay ahead of it to protect against lightning and dead shorts. The ALP board also
offers enhanced troubleshooting parameters.
Other features inherent to all SteppIR Yagis, Dipoles and Verticals:
180-Degree Mode. The
180
mode allows users to electrically “rotate” the antenna 180
degrees opposite forward direction beam heading. So if your antenna is pointing North,
with a click of a button you will be beaming South.
Bi-Directional Mode. The
BI 3/4
functions in a similar manner to 180-degree mode, except
when enabled, the antenna operates as a hybrid Yagi with forward gain occurring in
opposite directions, simultaneously.
Element Retract Mode. With Element Retract Mode, user can retract all elements on a
SteppIR antenna to home position. Optionally, the controller will then power down
automatically. Retracting elements is an extremely valuable option in cases of inclement
weather like high winds, snow or radial icing. During lightning events, a retracted antenna
greatly reduces conductive area of the antenna platform. NOTE: The user is not required
