TM Includes SG-237 Porta, SG-237 PCB and QMS-37 August 2001 SG-237 Manual page 1 Thursday, July 26, 2001 16:13 Composite
S GC — The SSB People SGC develops, manufactures, and sells high performance single sideband (SSB) communications equipment. Since 1971, the company has sold to the marine, military, aviation, and industrial markets worldwide. Over these years, SGC has earned an outstanding reputation for product reliability and for after sales service. The company keeps pace with equipment options, engineering developments, and design requirements.
Table of Contents Specifications ……………………………………………4 1.0 Supplied Items ……………………………………… 5 2.0 Mechanical Design …………………………………. 5 2.1 Marine Mounting …………………………………… 5 2.2 Desert and High Temperature Installations ………… 6 2.3 Additional Weather Protection Installations ………. 6 3.0 Coupler Configuration……...……………………….. 6 3.1 Connections to SG-237………………………………6 3.2 Tuning Process …………………………………….. 7 3.3 Impedance Detector…………………………………. 7 3.4 VSWR Detector…………………………………….. 8 3.5 Phase Detector ……………………………………… 8 3.
Specifications - Subject to change without notice HF Frequency Range: 1.8-60 MHz Power Input Range: 3 to 100 watts (PEP) Or 40 watts max. on CW Or 100 watts for 4 second TX and 6 second RX Number of channels: Revolving memory bins: Input Impedance Range: VSWR: (Typical) DC Input Requirement: DC Operating Range: Input Current: Average: Random set time: Recurrent set time: Antenna Length: Unlimited 168 45-55 ohms Typically less than 1.4:1 +13.8 VDC (nominal) +10 to 18.
1.0 SG-237 Supplied Items • • • SG-237 Coupler Manual Cable RF/Control 9 foot long 2.0 Mechanical Design The SG-237 is supplied in a weather proof case with mounting holes. RF and DC power is supplied to the unit through the same cable. The cable is a 9 foot 4 conductor (with coax for RF) cable with wires for ground, power, optional SmartLock controls, and optional LED indicator.
2.2 Desert and High Temperature Installations The Smartuner may be used in very hot climates on a continuous basis if some additional protection from direct sunlight is provided and if coupler is installed in a protected area. Temperatures inside a vehicle may exceed 212°F (100°C). It is desirable to keep the coupler in the shade if possible. 2.
transceiver or the SmartLock. This line cannot be connected to both units simultaneously. 3.2 Tuning Process An array of detector devices in the SG-237 monitor the antenna system impedance, reactance signal, and the VSWR load when RF power is applied to the unit. The coupler also monitors forward power, since the control computer requires an indication of both forward and reflected power in order to allow tuning to proceed.
3.4 VSWR Detector A directional coupler is made up of a current transformer T2 and a voltage transformer T1, in conjunction with termination resistors R35, R36 and R33, R34. The coupler is inserted in the 50-ohm transmission line between the input connector, ST2 RF - ST3 GND, and the tuning network. The forward power is measured across termination R33, R34 and reflected power is measured across termination R35, R36.
volatile memory table is the basis of the exclusive learning feature of the SG-237. After it has stored and latched the network status, the CPU waits for RF to cease transmitting and returns to the Stop mode. When RF is re-transmitted, the first step in the tuning algorithm is to measure the frequency of the signal passing through the coupler. From the frequency data, the computer then searches its EEPROM for previously stored data.
4.0 Tuning Process and Options MicroTune™ Software Copyright 1991-2001 The SG-237 MicroTune™ Software is unique software which allows precise tuning of the digitally controlled π and L network to tune a wide variety of antennas. The versatile MicroTune™ software offers its user these special functions: 1. The coupler is activated whenever forward power is present. 2. In addition to sampling VSWR to determine if the coupler should retune, frequency comparison is employed.
- VSWR is greater than 2:1 or a difference in frequency is detected, the program branches to the re-tune program. If it is determined that the VSWR is less than 2:1 and the frequency has not changed, the computer returns to the Stop mode. Re-tuning. Once it is determined that re-tuning is necessary, a test is made to see if JP3 is set to tune from memory. If the result is re-tuning from memory, settings are recalled from the EEPROM based on the frequency measured.
duplex mode has been selected. If so, the transmit tuning elements remain in circuit until the receive mode is verified. At this time, all tuning elements are removed. The frequency is then saved for future comparison and the CPU reverts back to the STOP mode. 4.2 Tuning Paths As mentioned previously, various tests are executed to determine the most logical tuning sequence to be performed.
longer capacitive. 3. Fine tuning is performed by trying a small amount of input capacitance (this may or may not be required). 4. At this point, the program acts the same as step 5 in section 4.2.1 The preceding gives a simplified program flow on only two possible antenna conditions. Much more complex tuning is normally the case. Further detailed description is beyond the scope of this manual. 4.2.
5.0 Coaxial Output Application SGC always recommends placing the antenna coupler as close as possible to the base of the antenna - regardless of whether it is an SGC coupler or another brand. All SGC couplers can be operated with a coaxial cable output connection; but this is not our recommendation. Antenna “tuners” which use coaxial cable connections are actually trimmer tuners and have a limited adjustment range (25 to 800 ohms).
7.0 Optional Smartlock The SmartLock allows the operator to have additional control over the SG-237. It is not required for normal operation of the coupler. 7.1 Tune, Tune Lock/Reset Tuned (green LED) Turns on when the coupler has successfully tuned. Normal/Tune Lock Toggle switch which allows user to prevent coupler re-tuning by switching to the Tune Lock position. When in the Tune Lock position, the red LED blinks to notify the user that the coupler is locked on the current setting.
8.0 Do-It-Yourself Light-Bulb Dummy Load Any time that a transmitter is used, it must be outputting into a load. A load is anything that the output power can be pumped into. If the transmitter is operated without any sort of load connected, the final amplifier stage could become severely damaged. The problem is that you should never test a transmitter on the air for the first time, if you are unsure about how to operate it, and if you are unsure whether it is working properly.
SGC recommends that you build the light-bulb dummy load with the following parts (although we have made one with an old light fixture and a makeshift version with just alligator clip leads and a light bulb): * AC socket to cable with a PL-259 connector (for transceiver) * AC socket to cable with alligator clips (needed with coupler) * Light bulb to AC adapter * 75 to 125 watt light bulb, 120 to 220 VAC * 100 watt radio transceiver * Any SGC Smartuner or equivalent RADIO TEST PROCEDURE 1.
6. For further testing, follow steps 4 & 5 of the radio test procedure on page 17. Note: The light bulb might not turn on immediately if coupler has not yet been tuned for the frequency of the transmitter. The output power (light-bulb brightness) is greatest when coupler is properly tuned. This test will ensure that the radio and coupler are working properly. 9.0 Five Golden Rules of HF Installation These rules apply to all types of stations, including base, mobile, airborne and marine.
10.0 Selected Antenna Configurations 2.0 M whip Ground coupler securely to truck Feed through insulator 18" PVC pipe standoffs Recreational Vehicle Antenna Installation Antenna wire Metal roof of vehicle Coupler Transceiver Coupler mounted inside coach Use a separate ground strap or wire for the body a n d t h e c h a s s i s t o t h e g r o u n d o f t h e c o u p l e r. Vehicle Installation 10.
10.4 Roofs/Walls: E. Under a roof overhang, all kinds of wire antennas may be installed. F. All types of antennas may be hidden inside the roof of a building that uses non-metallic roofing materials. Loop antennas are good for this type of installation. G. A downspout, rain gutter antenna works well if the piping and gutter are aluminum. Coupler F Coupler E G Coupler Rotary Aircraft 10.
10.7 Insulated Backstay: The coupler must be placed as close as possible to the base of the backstay antenna. Connect the RF ground terminal to all of the metal parts or structures of the boat. Porcelain isolator Radiation 75 feet Vessel insulated Backstay Coupler Porcelain isolator Ground connection Radiation 75 feet Vessel Groundless Loop Coupler Lower mast connection to coupler RF ground Porcelain isolator 10.
Feed through insulator 10.10 Long Wire Antenna: These on a fishing vessel perform well and are very efficient because antenna lengths of 50 feet or more can be installed without any difficulties. If vessel is not of a metal structure 3 radial wires as long as possible can be connected to the coupler and spread on the lower bottom part of the vessel.
11.0 SGC Limited Product Warranty And SOFTWARE LICENSE SG-237 & SG-237 Porta - 90 Days Parts & Labor SG-237 PCB - 30 Days Parts & Labor This manual is produced as a guideline for the SG-237 antenna coupler. Performance and results may vary and SGC does not warrant any installation or any result. This manual is subject to change without notice. You have purchased an SGC equipment product together with a license to use the software installed in that product.
12.0 Component Location / Schematics 24 SG-237 Manual page 24 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com © 2001 SGC, Inc.
Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.
SG-237 Manual page 26 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com © 2001 SGC, Inc. Thursday, July 26, 2001 16:13 Composite B 1W 100 1W R35 A R1 1.5K R32 33k T1 1W T2 C 33k 1W R33 100 12p C1 R2 RF PATH ST2 RF ST3 GND R27 33 1W D5 1W R28 33 10 R31 2 5 6 7 A1 100 8 1 C12 .
Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com SG-237 Manual page 27 27 Thursday, July 26, 2001 16:13 Composite IMPDNCE PHASE REV FWD 10K R59 'Z'1 C28 .01u PHZ1 REV1 Phase 10K R49 10k C27 .01u C26 .01u .
SG-237 Manual page 28 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com © 2001 SGC, Inc. Thursday, July 26, 2001 16:13 Composite U712 U713 U714 U715 U716 U717 U718 U719 U7[12..18] C32 .01 C42 .01 C40 .01 .01 C34 C41 .01 U7[12..18] C33 .01 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 12V C39 .01 C46 DATA C30 .1 STROBE UCN5841A 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 CLOCK .
Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com SG-237 Manual page 29 29 Thursday, July 26, 2001 16:13 Composite RF PATH 100p C63 100p C62 C61 100p 200p C60 200p C59 330p C58 470p C57 620p C56 C54 1000p 1000p C53 C55 2200p L1 C72 51p C64 10 K19 K18 K17 K16 K15 R74 C91 0.1 K21 K20 C90 0.1 C88 0.1 C89 0.1 C87 0.1 C86 0.
SG-237 Manual page 30 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com © 2001 SGC, Inc. Thursday, July 26, 2001 16:13 Composite C113 630V .033u .1u C102 VCC C112 .033u 630V 8 3 6 7 U9 C111 .033u 630V 7660 V+ GND LV OSC CAP+ R83 220K 1W VOUT CAP5 4 2 U1D 13 12 -5V 0 14 C95 .
SG-237 Manual page 31 * OPTIONAL +13.6 VDC + Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.
13.0 SG-237 Porta 13.1 SG-237 Porta Supplied Items • • • • Manual SG-237 Porta RF Ground System (4 radials of 12 feet each) Power/RF Cable 9 foot 13.2 Connections Drawing Q40105420 is the diagram of the antenna coupler connections. RF input and ground is applied to the PL-259 connector on the end of the cable, +13.6 VDC is connected to the red wire - ground to the black wire, and an appropriate antenna and RF Ground System are connected to the antenna stud and the RF ground stud respectively. 13.
Unit is stable enough to be selfsupporting on the ground (antenna not supplied). SG-237 Porta can be setup for temporary communications; installed on a balcony or ground location. Unit is small enough to be hand held. The SG-237 Porta is supplied with a 9 ft. single jacketed power cord and coaxial cable, and a ground system of radial wires, each 12 ft. long, as shown (antenna not supplied). Note: It is important that the ground radials and cable are never coiled.
SG-237 Manual page 34 RF GROUND RF INPUT +13.6 VDC ANTENNA + Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com © 2001 SGC, Inc.
14.0 SG-237 PCB 14.1 Supplied Items • • Manual SG-237 PCB 14.2 Connection Drawing Q40105419 is the wiring diagram of the antenna coupler. RF input and ground is applied to terminals marked RF(ST2) and GND(ST3). +13.6VDC and ground is connected to the terminals marked +12 VDC(ST-12V) and GND(ST-GND), and an appropriate antenna and RF ground system are connected to the ST1 screw and the two RF ground holes respectively. The TND (ST-TND) line can be connected to a radio such as the SG-2000 or a LED. 14.
SG-237 Manual page 36 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com © 2001 SGC, Inc. Thursday, July 26, 2001 16:13 Composite 5.00 " 0.20" ¿ 0.125" 5 Places 0.80" 5.50 " 5.30 " 4.82 " SG-237 PCB 5.30 " 0.19" 0.15" 5.75 " 6.00 " RT AUTH SGC Inc. 13737 S. E. 26TH ST. BELLEVUE, WA 98005 ORIGINAL DWG DESCRIPTION SCALE: 1:1 DWG. NO.
SG-237 Manual page 37 RF GND +13.6 VDC ON OFF * OPTIONAL RF INPUT ANTENNA + Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.
15.0 QMS System Introduction SGC’s QMS (Quick Mount System) is one of the many outstanding products manufactured by SGC, Inc. that incorporate the latest technological developments in both design and craftsmanship. Featuring state of the art technology in microprocessorbased communication equipment, the QMS represents high reliability backed by over three decades of communication experience. Unpacking QMS We recommend unpacking the QMS antenna system and inspecting the contents.
low structures. 4. When connecting the coupler to the radio/transceiver, a passageway for the control cable (consisting of an RG-58 coax cable, control power, and ground, plus the optional tuned indicator wire) will need to be provided. 5. Once a location for the QMS has been selected, mounting becomes a simple task. The QMS enclosure mounts in virtually any attitude and the straps can be moved to either side of the enclosure to accommodate the vehicle. Common Car Installation 15.0.
15.0.4 Straps can be mounted around the door or with hooks on the top and bottom edges of the door. 14.0.5 A ground can be connected either temporarily or permanently next to the door hinges. 15.0.6 Preferred installation locations are at the highest point on the vehicle. 15.0.7 The straps must be tight to ensure that the suction cups are well compressed. 15.0.8 40 SG-237 Manual page 40 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St.
15.0.9 Side mounting over the back wheel is a convenient location for lower profile installations. This configuration provides a very secure installation as the straps are short and taut. 15.0.10 15.0.12 Top trunk mounting also represents a good low profile installation. 15.0.11 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.
Sport Utility Vehicle Installation 15.0.13 Any fairly flat area is a convenient installation location. For proper radiation, the higher locations are the best. 15.0.14 15.0.15 You may use rack, door, or trunk edges for secure mounting. 42 SG-237 Manual page 42 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com © 2001 SGC, Inc.
15.0.16 Suction cups must be completely compressed for reliable installation as shown. 15.0.17 Four rubber rollers are supplied to avoid vibration of strap spans longer than 6 inches. Straps must never exceed two feet on either side. The rubber rollers also help increase the strap tension. The ground strap should run together with the strap between the body of the vehicle and the coupler - and then bolt to the chassis as shown on next page. 15.0.
15.0.19 15.0.20 Close-ups of ground strap location and installation. 15.0.21 44 SG-237 Manual page 44 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.com © 2001 SGC, Inc.
Always install coupler and antenna as far away as possible from the radio and engine as shown in the picture below. 15.0.22 Mailing: PO Box 3526, Bellevue, WA 98009 Shipping: 13737 SE 26th St., Bellevue, WA 98005 Toll-Free: 800-259-7331 • Phone 425-746-6310 • Fax: 425-746-6384 www.sgcworld.com • Email: sgc@sgcworld.
Installation Precautions To ensure safe operation of your QMS system, the following in mechanical, and electrical precautions should always be taken: 1. Insure that all four straps are pulled down tightly and the suction cup feet have been securely compressed. 2. Insure that the ground braid is attached to a good vehicle ground system. Do not run ground currents through any hinges. Be sure to make the ground braid as short as possible. Remove all paint and rust from your grounding area.
General Installation Information The mobile communication tips found below apply to any mobile installation, not merely to the QMS or other SGC product. • For the best performance and radiation, always mount your antenna system on the highest part of the vehicle. Approximately 3 to 15 dB in radiation performance may be gained in simply repositioning your antenna system from a low to a high point. • Never use your antenna system while the antenna is reclining against the body or the roof of the vehicle.
• In the charging line of this auxiliary battery, you may want a diode of 100 Amp. capacity to allow the battery to be charged, so as not to discharge with the rest of the electrical system. (You could use this auxiliary battery, in an emergency situation, to jump the main battery. To do this, however, you must provide a local or remote switch to allow the battery to operate the electrical system of the vehicle (temporarily) to start the engine.
Figure A-4—Suction Cup (underside view) base of the antenna mounted on the QMS and push firmly up and down. The vehicle Apply silicon grease should move up to shaded area and down, but the QMS should not. If the QMS moves and the vehicle does not, increase the tension on the QMS straps. Removing the QMS. Wash the vehicle in the area around the suction cups before removing. This will reduce any chance of surface marring.
SG-237 Manual page 50 Application Comparison Chart Model SG-239 SG-237 PCB SG-237 SG-237 Porta SG-230 SG-231 SG-235 Introduction Year 2001 1999 1999 1999 1987 1995 1992 SGC Catalog Number 54-22 54-19 54-18 54-20 54-12 54-17 54-15 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x Marine Commercial Radio Amateur x Aviation x Special Applications x Portable x x x x x x x Thursday, July 26, 2001 16:18 Composite Power Input Range (PEP Watts) 1.
Technical Comparison Chart SG-239 SG-237 SG-230 SG-231 SG-235 1.8 - 30MHz 1.8 - 60MHz 1.6 - 30MHz 1 - 60MHz 1.8 - 30MHz Power Input Range (PEP watts) 1.5 - 200 3-100 3-200 3-100 3-500 Cont. CW Power (watts) for 100% duty cycle 80 40 80 60 200 Input Impedance Range (ohms) 45-55 45-55 45-55 45-55 45-55 VSWR (Typical) <2:1 <2:1 <2:1 <1.4:1 <2:1 DC Input Requirement (VDC) Nominal 13.8 13.6 13.6 13.6 13.6 DC Op. Range (VDC) 10 to 18.
TM SGSG-237 Page 5 For normal marine, aviation and ham radio installations SGSG-237 PCB Page 31 For installation in older radios, retrofitting and OEM uses SGSG-237 Porta Page 28 For mobile, portable and field applications QMSQMS-37 Page 38 All-inclusive mobile installation © 2001 SGC, Inc. SG-237 Manual page 52 This manual is available for download at www.sgcworld.
