Don't see your answer here? Browse through our installations section to see the QMS in action, or go here.
What is the best way to install the SGC coupler in a mobile installation?
SGC has developed the QMS System to meet the challenges of HF all band operation with the SGC Smartuners™. The QMS system locates the coupler outside the vehicle, and includes a specially designed antenna that offers unmatched frequency agility, durability and performance.
What holds the QMS system on the vehicle?
The QMS is secured by a combination of 4 rubber suction cups and 4 nylon tie downs.
What is the power rating of the QMS?
There are three versions, the QMSb uses either the SG-230 or the SG-235 antenna coupler, and is rated at either 200 or 500 watts. The QMS37 uses the SG-237 antenna coupler, and is rated at 100 watts.
What connections are required to the HF radio for operation of the QMS system?
The QMS requires only RF from the radio. The SGC Smartuner inside gets all of the needed information from this signal. A source of 12 volts is also required.
What is different about the QMS antenna (SG-303)?
The QMS system uses the SG-303 antenna which is specially designed for broadband application with the SGC Smartuners. The SG-303 is a 9' whip which has dual elements for resonance on 11MHz., and 24MHz. This allows for good all band performance with the SGC couplers.
Is there a QMS system for my HF + 6M radio?
Yes, the QMS37 uses our SG-237 Smartuner and SG-307 whip, for full coverage of 1.8 to 60MHz, up to 100W, .
Can't I use my ball mount with a whip and get the same results?
Although it is possible to make a good installation without using the QMS, there are many challenges. Remember, you will be using one antenna length for all bands, feed point voltage can be over 20,000 volts! Ball mounts will not withstand this voltage, coax cable cannot operate efficiently, and may break down. We hope that you will choose the easy and efficient method, and use the QMS system.
Can I use my favorite monoband antenna on the QMS?
Yes, at the expense of frequency agility, you may operate an efficient center or capacity loaded monobander with the QMS. The Smartuner will allow for full band coverage.
What about using a wire antenna for 'portable' operation with the QMS?
This is a popular method of improving your signal while camping or in similar 'mobile at rest' situations. Use a slingshot or bow and arrow to put up a long wire, and attach it to the QMS for a big signal anywhere.
What about security, isn't the QMS prone to theft?
We have not heard of a single theft of a QMS system. We believe that thieves are more likely to steal things that they recognize as valuable. You are more likely to lose your custom wheels and stereo. Of course you may secure the system with a bicycle lock to be sure.
Can I lower the antenna for parking?
Yes, the QMS system has a ratchet mount that allows the antenna to easily lay down for parking. The QMS-7 antenna is flexible enough to allow it to be tied down when not in use.
How do I install the QMS System?
1. The first and most important aspect of a successful installation is not to exceed 18 inches of strap in any direction. Select the location that will allow the shortest length of each of the four retaining straps. The shorter the better.
2. If the span of the straps has to be greater than 18 inches, use the rubber rollers by inserting them between the body of the car and the straps. This is to increase the tension of the straps – use tie wraps to hold them in place.
3. Next, for proper installation, two people may be required for the final tension adjustment – One to press down on the QMS against the body or window of the vehicle as pressure must be applied until the suction cups are completely compressed. The second person should pull on the straps through the buckles at least twice each in a rotating basis.
4. In order to avoid the buckles and straps loosening up, use tie wraps at three places past the buckle to avoid any slippages – one right next to the buckle, one two inches from the buckle and the last one 4 inches from the buckle.
5. For a clean routing of the cables, hide the ground braid and the control cable by attaching them behind the two retaining straps (one for the cable and one for the ground strap) and tie wrap every 4 inches.
6. For the most stable mechanical installation, avoid installing the coupler rotational base in the same direction as the vehicle movement. The rotational base must be at right angle of the direction of the vehicle. See photos below:
When properly done, your installation should hold up to two years without needing a readjustment. The suction cups may require replacing after two years if you have extended sun exposure, however the straps are very stable and do not stretch in hot or cold weather. Many installations have been done without needing any readjustments for 3 to 4 years.
SGC Inc., Tel:
425-746-6310 Fax: 425-746-6384
Email: sgc@sgcworld.com SGC reserves the right to change specifications, release dates and price without notice.