Hamplus MBD-8G Automatic Antenna Switch Controllers

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Hamplus MBD-8G Automatic Antenna Switch Controllers are memory band and frequency decoding automatic antenna switch consoles that are compatible with all Hamplus eight input antenna switch relay units. They can be operated manually and are easily connected to function integrally with the transceiver. Each interfaced MBD-8G smart controller is simply memorized initial manual antenna selection on the front panel. Transceiver frequency and band changes then automate the correct antenna selection by band or band segment. Band data and frequency information is sampled from the transceiver CI-V, CAT or RS-232 as it is sent to the computer. These controllers also support split antenna selections for receive and transmit with automatic changeover supported by input and output connectors for the transceiver amplifier keying line. An interlock system safeguards against hot-switching and protects the radio and antenna systems from RF damage.

The MBD-8G front panel has eight momentary push button switches, each illuminated by manual or automatic antenna selection, each with removable covers and translucent labeling inserts. Above each switch, antenna number labels and red Busy LEDs indicate which antennas are selected by another MBD-8 controller/transceiver position. On the left side are four red LEDs, one to indicate rotator selection (when enabled with optional Rotator Control Switches), one to indicate when the radio is transmitting, one to indicate the "Split Antenna" status and one to indicate Power On status.

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NOTE: Hamplus MBD-8G Controllers require the -12 Series Hamplus Interface Cables that have a rear panel DB9F RADIO port. Therefore, the MBD-8G is not a drop-in replacement for MBD-8F and -8E units that use -8 series cables with rear panel 25-pin RADIO port connectors. See Suggested Parts.

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The MBD-8G Smart Controller, and previous models MBD-8F or MBD-8E Controllers, are all compatible for use at different operating positions. Each controller is connected to the same Antenna Switch and is connected to each other via the Busy Net with 3.5mm patch cables. It would be typical for the 160 meter operating position to have the MBD-8G with the Waller Flag receive antenna control. Plus, it doesn't matter if each of the smart controllers at radio operating positions are in the same room or in different shacks. Depending upon the Hamplus Antenna Switch installed, one, two, four, or six radio positions are supported. Each station, equipped with an MBD-8 controller, may select from the same eight antennas, one at a time. Choose from models HPY-AS-81, HPY-AS-82F, HPY-AS-84F, or HPY-AS-86F. It is even possible to expand to a 16 antenna system with two antenna switch units, two MBD-8 controllers at each position and an optional AS-21 or ASR-21. MBD-8G smart controllers require no PC or software, and work with all Hamplus rotator and antenna switches and even with other manufacturers' models. Check compatibility before ordering.

The MBD-8G also supports connection through an optional RS-24 or RS-44 Rotator Switch. They enable the automated selection of up to four rotators using one of two or four different rotator controllers at MBD-8 Controller enabled transceiver positions. On the front panel, there are four LEDs to indicate the rotor selected. [GB1] The programming to associate the rotator to the appropriate antenna is also easily accomplished by the user with the front panel push buttons and is saved in non-volatile memory.

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Features of the Hamplus MBD-8G Controllers:

• Smart control for up to eight antennas to separate Hamplus Antenna Switch.

• Illuminated push button with labels.

• Band pass filter drive.

• Band Data Output provided for interfaced frequency or band data input

• Split Transmit and Receive Antenna Operation

• Interlock system - prevents more than one radio on the same antenna.

• Hot Switch Protection.

• Twenty-five Antenna Band Memory from LF to UHF

• Automatic tuning for shortened antennas with high Q coils.

• Control with auxiliary keyboard for Waller Flag Receiving antennas manufactured by TOPBEAM.

• Control two or four rotators by antenna selection with a separate Rotator Control Switch.

• RS-232 port for external control by a personal computer.

• No computer or software required (remote without PC).

• By using two or more MBD-8G it’s possible to expand to 16 antennas or more.