The Mosley Trap Master Model MINI-32-AW is a high-performance multi-band antenna designed for amateur radio use. This manual provides detailed assembly instructions, technical specifications, and maintenance guidelines to ensure optimal performance.
Function Description:
The MINI-32-AW is a 2-element beam antenna capable of operating on five amateur radio bands: 10, 12, 15, 17, and 20 meters. It utilizes a trap design to achieve multi-band operation while maintaining a compact size. The antenna is designed to provide good gain and front-to-back ratio, making it suitable for various HF (High Frequency) communication needs. The "AW" in the model name likely refers to "All-Weather," indicating its robust construction for outdoor use.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Frequency, MHz: 28, 24, 21, 18, 14 (covering 10, 12, 15, 17, and 20 meters)
- Power Rating:
- CW: 500 watts
- SSB: 1000 watts
- AM/FM: 250 watts
- RTTY/AMTOR: 250 watts
- Important Note: The manual strongly advises not to load up in the tune position with more than 350 watts due to the antenna's design for low power.
- VSWR at frequency: 1.0/1 to 1.5/1
- Forward Gain (dBd):
- 10 meters: 5.1
- 12 meters: 0
- 15 meters: 4.5
- 17 meters: 0
- 20 meters: 3.3
- Front-to-Back Ratio (dB):
- 10 meters: 17 (avg.)
- 12 meters: 0
- 15 meters: 17 (avg.)
- 17 meters: 0
- 20 meters: 17 (avg.)
- Boom Length: 6 ft (1.83 m)
- Maximum Element Length: 19.6875 ft (6 m)
- Turning Radius: 10.29 ft (3.14 m)
- Mast Size (hardware equipped): 1.5 in (3.81 cm)
- Assembled Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.67 kg)
- Wind Surface Area: 3.7 sq ft (.344 sq m)
- Wind Load (EIA Standard 80 MPH): 49 lbs (22.23 kg)
- Warranty: 2 years
- Recommended Coax: Belden RG-8 / RG-213
Usage Features:
- Color-Coded Assembly: Element and coil sections are color-coded to simplify assembly. The color-coded end of each section should always face towards the boom. Reversing sections can lead to high SWR and other malfunctions.
- Anti-Corrosion Compound: Mosley Anti-Corrosion Compound (PENATROX) is provided and should be applied between coupled tubing sections to prevent high resistance and aluminum seizing.
- Drain Holes: Trap assemblies are designed with drain holes that must face downwards to prevent water accumulation.
- Adjustable Element Ends: The trapped element ends are not pre-drilled, allowing for fine-tuning during installation to achieve desired resonant frequencies. A pre-selected setting is provided as a starting point.
- Tuning Procedure: The manual outlines a specific tuning sequence, starting with 10 meters, then 12 meters, before making any adjustments to the 20-meter end tips. 15 and 17 meters are expected to fall into place automatically.
- RF Choke (Optional): Instructions are provided for creating an RF choke from the coax feed line (5 turns, 6" diameter) to ensure good balance at the feed point and prevent RF on the feed line.
- Low Power Design: The antenna is specifically designed for low power operation, with a maximum recommended power of 350 watts in the tune position.
- Broadband Capability: The antenna is designed for broad-band capability, suitable for modern solid-state transceivers.
- Compact Design: Despite its multi-band capabilities, the MINI-32-AW is designed to be as compact as possible, making it suitable for installations where space is a concern.
Maintenance Features:
- Deburring Notice: Users are advised to remove any loose aluminum chips or burrs from tubing ends before assembly to prevent seizing and ensure proper telescoping. Trap assemblies are pre-cleaned internally.
- Tightening Fasteners: Instructions emphasize not overtightening fasteners, especially u-bolts, to avoid stripping holes and ensure proper electrical connections. Lock washers should be seated.
- Pre-Installation Check: It is recommended to check the antenna on a temporary support 10-12 feet off the ground to verify resonance and SWR curves before final installation.
- Artificial Ground Awareness: The manual warns against artificial ground sources (guy wires, rooftops, nearby antennas) that can disrupt performance and degrade front-to-back ratio. A minimum separation of 17 feet from artificial ground is recommended for 20-meter operation.
- Warranty: A two-year warranty covers defects in material and workmanship. Replacement parts are provided free of charge for items purchased within 90 days.
- Product Support: Mosley Electronics offers technical support via phone and email for assembly and installation difficulties.
- Anti-Corrosion Compound: Regular use of the anti-corrosion compound is implied for long-term performance.
- Guy Wire Insulation: For guyed installations, insulators every 4 feet for the first 16 feet of non-metallic guy wires are recommended to prevent non-resonant lengths under the antenna.
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