The TEN-TEC Model 4229 Antenna Tuner Kit is a user-assembled version of the TEN-TEC Model 229 tuner, designed to match the impedance of an antenna to a radio's output, thereby optimizing power transfer and minimizing standing wave ratio (SWR). This kit uses identical components to the factory-manufactured Model 229, with the primary difference being the front panel treatment. The average construction time for the kit is approximately 8 hours.

Function Description:

The 4229 Antenna Tuner is a passive device that allows for the adjustment of impedance to achieve a low SWR, typically 1:1, between a transmitter and a wide range of antennas, including balanced lines, single-wire antennas, and coaxial-fed antennas. It features a variable capacitor and a variable inductor to achieve the necessary impedance matching. The tuner also incorporates an SWR meter for monitoring forward power (FWD), reflected power (REV), and SWR, with selectable power ranges (200W and 2KW). A bypass switch allows the antenna to be connected directly to the radio, bypassing the tuning circuit.

Important Technical Specifications (derived from the manual and schematic):

Model: TEN-TEC Model 4229 Antenna Tuner Kit (kit version of Model 229)
Power Ranges: 200W and 2KW for SWR metering.
Antenna Connections:
- Four coaxial antenna connectors (ANT 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Balanced line terminals
- Single wire terminal
- Input coaxial connector
Capacitor: Variable capacitor assembly #80962, consisting of 25 semicircular rotor plates and 25 rotor spacers, and 24 rectangular stator plates with 46 stator spacers.
Inductor: Variable inductor assembly #81040, featuring a coil assembly with a roller contact mechanism for variable inductance.
SWR Board: Assembly #80859, includes components like diodes (D20, D21 - IN4148), resistors (R20, R21, R22, R23, R27), capacitors (C20, C21, C22, C23, C24, C25, C26, C27), and a toroid transformer (T20).
Meter Switch Board: Assembly #80958, includes push switches, thumbwheel potentiometers (R30, R31 - 10K trimpots), and resistors (R28 - 47K, R29 - 10K).
Power Requirement: 12 VDC for meter illumination.
Physical Dimensions (approximate, based on side plate size): 10" x 4-1/4" for side plates.
Construction Time: Approximately 8 hours.

Usage Features:

SWR Metering: The front panel includes a meter to display FWD, REV, and SWR, with selectable power ranges (200W/2KW). An SWR SET control allows for calibration of the SWR meter.
Tuning Controls: Large knobs for "CAPACITOR" (variable capacitor) and "INDUCTOR" (variable inductor) allow for precise tuning.
Antenna Selection: A multi-position switch (S2) on the rear panel allows selection between four coaxial antennas, balanced line, and single wire.
Bypass Function: A "BYPASS" switch (S1) on the front panel allows the tuner to be bypassed, connecting the antenna directly to the radio.
External Capacitor Connection: An "EXT CAPACITOR" terminal on the rear panel suggests the possibility of connecting an external capacitor for extended tuning range or specific applications.
12 VDC Input: For powering the meter illumination.
Front Panel Aesthetics: The kit version features a distinct front panel treatment compared to the factory-built Model 229.

Maintenance Features (related to assembly and general care):

Clear Instructions: The manual provides "easy-to-follow instructions and construction aids" including silk-screened component designations and switch wafer terminations on circuit boards and the back panel.
Tool List: A comprehensive list of required and recommended tools is provided, including soldering iron, solder, screwdrivers, pliers, center punch, hammer, wire stripper, and household lubricant.
Mechanical Adjustments: Detailed steps are provided for adjusting the variable capacitor and inductor assemblies, including plate alignment, rotor tension, and stator plate positioning. Lubrication of bearing holes is also specified.
Wiring Procedures: Specific instructions are given for soldering components, cutting and dressing leads, and ensuring proper polarity for diodes and transformer leads.
Inspection: The manual emphasizes inspecting for "excessive solder 'blobs' or drips and wire ends that may loosen and cause shorts" and resoldering "questionable cold soldered, insufficient solder, excessive solder, etc."
Cleaning: Before final assembly of the front panel, users are instructed to "carefully inspect both of these panels for appearance. Clean the painted front of the aluminum panel and both sides of the plastic panel. Any smudges or grease marks (finger prints, etc.) will be locked in for the life of this unit. Use a soft cloth dry or with soap or detergent that will not attack the plastic."
Post-Assembly Check: Before installing the top cover, a final inspection for "obvious shorts, unsoldered connections, and see that all shafts and controls operate properly" is required.
Alignment: The manual includes instructions for calibrating the slide rule dial with the variable inductor.
Owner's Manual: The kit includes the Owner's Manual for the TEN-TEC Model 229 Antenna Tuner for testing and alignment procedures.

Ten-Tec 4229 - Page 24

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