What is an antenna coupler for?
The purpose of the antenna coupler is to allow operation across the HF spectrum with a single antenna. Without the coupler, most simple antennas will operate correctly only on one narrow band of frequencies.
Can I use an SGC antenna coupler with another brand HF radio?
Yes, you can use SGC couplers with any HF radio that is within the power rating of the coupler. SGC manufactures couplers that can operate as low as 1.5 watts and up to 500 watts.
How do the SGC couplers work?
SGC antenna couplers use a sophisticated microprocessor controlled circuit to select the correct pi or L network to match your antenna to the transceiver. All SGC couplers will retain the settings for your antenna in its non-volatile memory and tune in about 10 milliseconds! (recurrent tune).
What kind of antenna will the SGC antenna couplers work with?
The SGC coupler will operate with almost any antenna. It is designed to be installed at the antenna feed point and provides an unbalanced output.
What size antenna do I need with the SGC couplers for operation on all HF bands?
Please refer to individual coupler pages or manuals for specific antenna lengths, visit the Smartuner Specification Chart, or read the technical note on selecting wire length.
Are there options for the SGC antenna couplers?
Yes, you may purchase the Smart Lock option which offers a remote 'tuned' indicator, as well as lock and reset functions. SGC also offers extension kits for installations where the coupler will be located some distance from the transceiver.
How many antenna couplers does SGC make?
SGC currently offers five Smartuner models.
The SG-230 is ideal for base and marine applications. It operates from 1.8 to 30MHz and 3 to 200W.
The SG-237 is a smaller coupler that works well in mobile and base applications. It operates from 1.8 to 60MHz and 3 to 100W.
The SG-235 is a high power coupler for base or mobile use and operation from 1.8 to 30MHz and 3 to 500W.
The SG-239 is a compact unit for base or mobile use. It operates from 1.8 to 30MHz and 1.5 to 200W.
The SG-211 is a low power, compact unit ideal for portable and QRP use. It operates from 1.8 to 60MHz and .5 to 60W.
Which coupler is the right one for my application?
To determine which coupler is right for you, you must ask yourself what your requirements are as far as frequency, power and antenna capture range. Click here to review a specification comparison chart.
Can I use my radio's 'Tune' button?
The Smartuner automatically senses RF when your transmit, and does not require a command to initiate a tune.
However, some users have been able to connect their coupler to the 'TUNE' command on their radio.
Click here for interfacing with the IC-706.
How does a Smartuner work with my radio's internal antenna tuner?
An SGC coupler would replace your radio's internal tuner. When using an external coupler, your internal tuner should be bypassed.
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.