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13406 SE 32nd St, BELLEVUE WA, 98005 WWW.CONSUMER.STEPPIR.COM TEL: (425)-453-1910
Currently, most multi-band antennas use traps, log cells or interlaced elements as a means to
cover several frequency bands. All of these methods have one thing in common–they signifi-
cantly compromise performance. The SteppIR antenna system is our answer to the prob-
lem. Resonant antennas must be made a specific length to operate optimally on a given fre-
quency.
So, instead of trying to “trick” the antenna into thinking it is a different length, or simply adding
more elements that may destructively interact, why not just change the antenna length? Opti-
mal performance is then possible on all frequencies with a lightweight, compact antenna. Al-
so, since the SteppIR can control the element lengths, a long boom is not needed to achieve
near optimum gain and front to back ratios on 20 - 10 meters.
Each antenna element consists of two spools of flat copper-beryllium tape conductor (.54”
Wide x .008” Thick) mounted in the element housing unit. The copper-beryllium tape is perfo-
rated to allow a stepper motor to drive them simultaneously with sprockets. Stepper motors
are well known for their ability to index very accurately, thus giving very precise control of
each element length. In addition, the motors are brushless and provide extremely long ser-
vice life.
The copper-beryllium tape is driven out into a hollow fiberglass elements support tube (see
below), forming an element of any desired length up to the limit of each specific antenna
model (a vertical uses only one side). The fiberglass elements support tubes (poles) are tele-
scoping, lightweight and very durable. When fully collapsed, each one measures approxi-
mately 59” in length. Depending on the model, there may be additional extensions added to
increase the overall element length.
The ability to completely retract the copper-beryllium antenna elements, coupled with the col-
lapsible fiberglass poles makes the entire system easy to disassemble and transport.
The antenna is connected to a microprocessor-based controller (via 22 gauge conductor ca-
ble) that offers numerous functions including dedicated buttons for each ham band, continu-
ous frequency selection from 40m to 6m (depending on the model).
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