Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the MFJ-1838 eight band HF antenna. You new antenna is composed of
High strength material for excellent rigidly and light weight. The MFJ-1838 is compact and excellent
for restricted space or portable installations. The antenna is omnidirectional enough to not require a
rotator. It has good bandwidth and minimum SWR on all five bands. It can be mounted on tripod for
temporary locations or any mast 1-3/4 diameter or smaller for permanent installation.
Preparation
This antenna although it is not heavy, might be cumbersome for one person to handle.
It is a good idea to have a temporary mast about 6 feet off the ground to hold the antenna while you
are working on it. If you don’t have a mast available, saw horses other support can be used.
The antenna support arms can be installed on a flat surface like a garage floor if needed. The antenna
assembly will go quickly and is fairly easy but take your time anyway. As with all antennas, safety
glasses are recommended during the assembly and tuning. We don’t want you to “Poke your eye out”.
Pick a clear open spot and assemble the antenna away from other people. Do not allow children
in the assembly area. Only the people involved in the construction should be near. If you plan to
assemble the antenna over grass, be prepared to go on a lawn safari to find the hardware that you drop.
It’s not a question of if, but when you drop something. A few extra parts have been included in the parts
pack for just such a adventure. Assembly can be done by one person but when the antenna is to be
mounted or moved, plan to have a friend help. It is not wise to attempt to install any antenna without
help. Don’t rush. The more time you put into the antenna, the happier you will be with the results.
WARNING
KEEP THIS ANTENNA
AWAY FROM POWER LINES
Never mount or move any antenna where it can come into contact
with power lines. If this antenna comes into contact with power
lines, it can KILL you. Never mount any antenna where if it fell
it could come into contact with power lines.
