by KO6YD Designs

FAQ

Here is a list of common questions about the SAM.

(New) Check out the High Sierra HS-1500 Installation Tips.

Will it work with my antenna
In general, YES. However, we are working with many antenna manufactures to verify that the SAM unit WILL operate with their antennas. The key to using the SAM is you need to gain access to the inside of your antenna. You will need to install a magnet on the inside. For more informaiton check out our Antenna Manufactures Page.

What does installing the SAM require
The SAM requires that a magnet be installed somewhere on the internal rotating shaft. This is used to trigger a sensor that must be mounted internally or externally so the magnet will activate the sensor only once per turn of the internal shaft. The location of the magnet and sensor is not important as long as the sensor will be "pulsed" or activated by the magnet once every turn. You will also need additional wiring to the antenna.

There is also a sensor that needs to be installed on the outside (or inside) that will the magnet will trigger. General instructions are provided to install this. We cannot provide details on each model of antenna.
However, I do have some information on the High Sierra HS-1500

What Wiring Do I Need for the SAM and Antenna
Not counting the coax, the standard antenna requires 2 wires to control the motor. The SAM will require an additional two wires for the sensor. So in total, the SAM requires 4 wires (two pairs) to/from the antenna to the control box. The control box has two wires for +12V power.

What about RF, how does the sam do in high RF environments
I have tested the SAM with 1200 to 1500 Watts on 10 thru 80 meters in a moble setup. I saw the power meter and was sitting in the cab with all that RF only 10 Ft away. (Yikes) I had a ferrite bead on the lead-in wires from the antenna (Power and Sensor), I had no problems at this high power.
However, I have also seen 50W cause a problem in my own truck. It ended up being a loose connection of the coax to the antenna.
HF moble operation is not a "Plug and Play" installation and since every installation is unique, some users may need to provide additional protection from RF.
Things to try: