Ideal for Amateur Radio or Shortwave Listening, the DXE-ARAH3-1P Active Receive Antenna
system (ARAH) offers excellent receiving performance from 100 kHz to 30 MHz using two 102
inch whip antenna elements. DX Engineering’s unique design makes it vastly superior to traditional
active antennas in both strong signal handling and feedline decoupling, providing significantly
better weak signal reception due to lower spurious signal interference and reduced noise.
Location Considerations
The best place to install your active antenna is where you have the recommended space away from
power lines and away from your house, tower or any structures which are excellent sources of noise. Even passive wiring in a building or metal fencing can act as a pickup antenna and re-radiate
of noise.
The ARAH systems can be affected by local noise sources. Local noise can be random or
directional in nature. Every effort must be made to locate sources of noise that could be eliminated
at the source. Dimmer switches, electric timers, photocell-operated security lights, and many other
items can be sources of unwanted noise. Plasma-screen television receivers are a known generator
of unwanted noise interference. Most modern LED or LCD flat panel televisions are not broadband
noise generators.
If the noise source is external and single directional in nature, using two ARAH antennas in
conjunction with the DXE-NCC-1 Receive Antenna Variable Phasing Controller could allow the
user to phase out the noise being received.
Large transmit antennas are a very good source of re-radiated noise.
Ideally your receive antenna should be a minimum of 1/2-wavelength away from any transmit
antenna (on the lowest frequency) to avoid mutual coupling and the transfer of any noise being reradiated by the transmit antenna. If the unit is located 1/10-wavelength to 1/2-wavelength from a
transmitting antenna, the unit must be powered off at least 5 ms before transmitting on the transmit
antenna. However, with this close spacing, coupling from the nearby transmit antennas becomes
more pronounced. At higher frequencies, where the active element length becomes a partial
wavelength, coupling increases further.
To assure highest protection for the active antenna, a sequencer such as the DXE-TVSU-1A should
be used to ensure the correct transmit-to-receive switching. The ARAH series active horizontal
antenna system grounds the antenna element when power is turned off.
Placing a DXE-ARAH3-1P on the same mast or tower as a Yagi or other transmitting antenna is
not recommended for this reason.
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WARNING!
THIS IS A RECEIVE-ONLY SYSTEM
You should never attempt to transmit through the system.
The use of bypass relays and sequential timing is required to avoid damage to the receiver and
active antennas in the proximity of transmit antennas.
Placing any active receive system on the same mast or tower as the transmit antenna is not
recommended.
INSTALLATION OF ANY ANTENNA NEAR POWER LINES IS DANGEROUS
Warning: Do not locate the antenna near overhead power lines or other electric light or power
circuits, or where it can come into contact with such circuits. When installing the antenna, take
extreme care not to come into contact with such circuits, because they may cause serious injury or
death.
General Information
A horizontally configured system makes a very sensitive horizontally polarized receiving antenna
that is ground independent. Horizontal polarization will greatly reduce ground-wave propagated
noise in congested urban environments. Light weight and low wind resistance reduces support
requirements and if rotation is desired, you can use a lightweight antenna rotator. The
inconspicuous whip antenna elements also have excellent wind survivability.
This compact receiving antenna system operates over a very wide bandwidth with superior strong
signal performance. The output Third Order Intercept (TOI) is approximately +30 dBm. This is
significantly better than most aftermarket preamplifiers and receivers - making it one of the cleanest
active antennas on the market, reducing or eliminating spurious signals.
Feedline decoupling, absent in some other popular designs, is also exceptionally good. Decoupling
the shield greatly reduces feedline conducted noise and unwanted signal interference
The ARAH systems can be affected by local noise sources. Local noise can be random or
directional in nature. Every effort must be made to locate sources of noise that could be eliminated
at the source. Dimmer switches, electric timers, photocell-operated security lights, and many other
items can be sources of unwanted noise. If the noise source is directional in nature, using two
ARAH antennas in conjunction with the DXE-NCC-1 Receive Antenna Variable Phasing
Controller would allow the user to phase out the noise being received. Plasma-screen television
receivers are becoming more popular and are a known generator of unwanted noise interference.
Two active antennas can be used with the DXE-NCC-1 Noise Canceling Receive Antenna
Controller to make a steerable horizontal array. The DXE-NCC-1 can also provide power for the
active antennas and the proper transmit power-off sequencing.
The DXE-ARAH active antennas may be used in installations when spacing from transmit antennas
is at least 1/10-wavelegth or more. Ideally you should be a minimum of 1/2-wavelength away from
any transmit antenna (on the lowest frequency) to avoid mutual coupling and the transfer of noise
- 4 -
being re-radiated by the transmit antenna. The DXE-ARAH series active horizontal antenna
system also grounds the antenna element when power is turned off for protection of the active
devices.
When using transmitting radio systems and RF amplifiers a sequencer such as the DXE-TVSU-1ATime Variable Sequencer Unit should be used to ensure the correct timing while switching from
receive to transmit, and back to receive.
Features
Sensitive − weak signal sensitivity rivaling full size antennas
Wide Bandwidth – 100 kHz to 30 MHz
Excellent Strong Signal Handling − outstanding Third Order Intercept of +30 dBm
Reduced Noise − quiet FET followers and exceptional feedline shield isolation
Close Spacing from Transmit Antennas – element grounded at power-off
Long Life − high quality stainless and brass mounting hardware, metal enclosure
Compact − stainless steel tapered element has low visual and environmental impact
Easy Mounting and Installation Flexibility − pre-drilled mounting plate and universal V-
saddle clamps
Parts Included with the ARAH System
Non-conductive mounting plates
Solid brass element mounting blocks
Two high quality 102 in. tapered stainless steel elements
Active matching system w/ Internal Antenna Disconnect Relay
DXE-FVI-1 Feedline Voltage Injector − powers the AVA unit and provides the radio connections
Wall Transformer: 120 VAC 60 Hz to +12 Vdc, 500 mA
Two element connection wires
DXE-SSVC-2P V-Bolt Mounting Clamps and hardware for mounting
Additional Items Needed, But Not Supplied
Mast mounting pipe
DXE-F6 - 75Ω F-6 Style, Direct Bury Coaxial Cable: Full Spool or Custom Cable Assemblies.
Flooded coaxial cable is recommended. CATV F-6 is a high quality 75Ω flooded coaxial cable.
Contact DX Engineering to have custom lengths of CATV F-6 cable manufactured with DXE-SNS6
The feedline shield is used as the ground return for the active antenna power, so the feedline
connections must be high quality and weather resistant. For this reason, it is recommended using
Snap-N-Seal type F connectors.
DXE-SNS-CT1 - Compression Tool for Snap-N-Seal 75Ω Coaxial Connectors. The DXE-
SNS6-25 connectors cannot be installed with normal crimping tools or pliers. An installation tool
such as the DXE-SNS-CT1 is essential for proper connector installation.
PTX-82180 - DX Engineering Approved RTV Sealant. Permatex Black RTV Sealant, Non-
Acetic. Avoid using any corrosive sealant which has a vinegar-like smell.
PTX-81343 - Anti-Seize should be used on stainless steel hardware (small amount on threads) to
prevent galling.
- 5 -
Technical Description
This compact receiving antenna system is designed to operate over a very wide bandwidth from the
broadcast band to 30 MHz with superior strong signal performance. The Third Order Intercept
(TOI) is approximately +30 dBm, reducing or eliminating spurious signals.
Exceptional feedline decoupling, absent in some other popular designs, greatly reduces feedline
conducted noise and unwanted signal interference.
The active matching system requires well filtered +10 to +15 Vdc @ 50 mA nominal current. This
power must be supplied through the feedline using the included DXE-FVI-1 Feedline Voltage
Injector and wall mounted transformer power supply (also included). Alternatively, well filtered
station +12 VDC, 1A power may be used with a 1 amp in-line fuse. If used, the DXE-TVSU-1A
Time Variable Sequencer Unit or DXE-NCC-1 Receive Antenna Variable Phasing Controller will
supply power for multi-element arrays. The DXE-TVSU-1A Time Variable Sequencer Unit and the
DXE-NCC-1 Receive Antenna Variable Phasing Controller will interrupt the power to the ARAH
for proper grounding during the transmit operation of the transceiver.
Basic Tools Required
5/16", 7/16", 1/2" wrenches or nut drivers, and a 5/8" wrench
# 2 Phillips Head Screw Driver
Manual Updates and Information
Every effort is made to supply the latest manual revision with each product. Occasionally a manual
will be updated between the time your DX Engineering product is shipped and when you receive it.
Please check the DX Engineering web site (www.dxengineering.com) for the latest revision manual.
Installation
Location
The best place to install your active antenna is where you have the recommended space. The
ARAH should be located a minimum of 1/2-wavelength (at the lowest transmit frequency used)
away from any transmit antenna. The ARAH antenna should be mounted on its own mast at a
minimum elevation of 20 feet.
If the unit is located 1/10-wavelength to 1/2-wavelength from a transmitting antenna, the unit must
be powered off at least 5 ms before transmitting on the transmit antenna. The sequencer such as
model DXE-TVSU-1A must be used to ensure the correct transmit-to-receive switching.
With this close spacing, coupling from nearby transmit antennas or metal structures becomes more
pronounced. At higher frequencies, where the active element length becomes a partial wavelength,
coupling increases further. Placing an ARAH on the same mast or tower as a Yagi or other
transmitting antenna is not recommended for this reason.
The mounting plate assembly consists of two DXE-SSVC-2P V-Bolt Mounting Clamps, two black
polymer plates, 4 polymer spacers and two brass whip-mounting blocks and the associated stainless
steel hardware.
- 6 -
Use PTX-81343 - Anti-Seize on all stainless steel hardware threads to prevent galling when
tightening.
Active Matching Unit
The Active Matching Unit (ARAH) mounts to the front mounting plate.
Mount the ARAH with the ANT − terminal up towards the six element
block holes, using 5/8" bolts and hardware. Use a flat washer under each
bolt and a flat and split washer under each nut (See Figure 1).
Figure 1
Brass Element Blocks
The ARAH uses two 102 inch whip elements in a dipole configuration.
The brass element blocks that hold the whip elements can be mounted
using the pre-drilled holes either horizontal or at a 30 up angle. The up
angle allows the natural droop of the whip elements to be even with the
horizontal plane of the ARAH. The following describes assembly with the
30 up angle. Once the mounting plates are assembled, the orientation
may be changed by loosening the mounting hardware and moving the
brass blocks to the lower holes and re-assembling the hardware.
Turn the black front mounting plate over so the ARAH is on the bottom or
back side. Orient the black front mounting plate with the six brass element
mounting block holes closer to the top, as shown in Figure 2. Attach the Figure 2
antenna wire (shown in Figure 5) to each of the brass element blocks using the 5/16" x 1/2" hex
bolt, nut, one flat and one star washer. The 7/16" x 1-1/2" bolts, flat washers, split washers, and hex
nuts will be used to mount the brass element blocks to the mounting plate as shown in Figure 2
after the spacers and rear mounting plate are installed as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 5.
Make sure the threaded hole in the element blocks for the antenna elements are facing up and
outward and the antenna wires are on top. Use a flat washer under each bolt and a flat and split
washer under each nut. Do not over-tighten.
- 7 -
Spacers and Rear Mounting Plate
The rear mounting plate is held to the front mounting
plate using spacers to allow room for the Brass
Element Blocks. The four polymer spacers are
installed using the smaller 1-3/4" bolts and hardware
as shown in Figure3 and 4. Oversize fender washers
go under each bolt, and on the opposite side against
the polymer mounting plate. The lock washers and
nuts go on last. Tighten all hardware used to assemble
the mounting plate.
Figure 3
The two DXE-SSVC-2P V-Bolt Mounting Clamps are inserted
from the opposite side of the mounting plate from the ARAH.
The aluminum backing plate (Figure 3) is used between the
saddle clamps and the mounting plate assembly as shown. The
large holes in the front mounting plate (Figure 2) are used for
tightening the clamp hardware. These clamps accept mast sizes
from 1" to 2". The mast should not extend more than 2" beyond
the top clamp to prevent unwanted interference with the active
elements. Tighten each side of the clamps evenly, but do not
over tighten. Use Anti-Seize on the clamp threads to prevent
galling when tightening.
Figure 4
Referring to Figure 5 connect the element feed wires from the brass element blocks to the ANT+
and ANT- terminals on the ARAH. The ring terminal on the feed wire should go between the flat
washers. Do not use pliers or other tools to tighten the wing nuts on the ANT terminals; hand-
tighten them only.
Figure 5
- 8 -
Mounting Mast
Mounting height depends on local operating conditions, but in general the ARAH
should be at least 20 feet above ground.
Attach the mounting plate to the mast using the two DXE-SSVC-2P V-Bolt
Mounting Clamps through the holes directly below the ARAH. The clamps should
already be inserted from the opposite side of the mounting plate (see Figure 6).
The clamps can work with mast sizes from 1" to 2". The mast should not extend
beyond the top of the mounting plate. This prevents unwanted interference with
the active element. Do not over-tighten the clamps or stress the mounting plate.
Figure 6
V-Saddle Clamp
Mounting
Side View
After final testing (and setting of jumpers if needed - refer to Figure 8) to enhance
weather resistance, place a bead of non-corrosive, PTX-82180 - Approved RTV Sealant along the seams where the two halves of the ARAH case meet. Leave
small openings in the two bottom seams to allow any condensation to drain. Do
not use sealants that have a vinegar-like smell because they contain acetic acid
which will corrode aluminum.
Ground System
The DX Engineering Horizontal Active Antenna system operates independently from a ground
system. However, steps should be taken to properly protect the mounting mechanism, tower, etc
from lightning by implementing a proper ground system. The 75 Ω coax feedline can be protected
using a DXE-RLP-75FF lightning protector, available from DX Engineering.
Note: DO NOT attach a ground system to either terminal
or the case of the ARAH unit.
Connections
The feed line should be run away from the antenna at the exact center
and at right angles to the antenna elements. If possible, bury the feed
line for some distance from the antenna when the feed line reaches the
ground. This helps to decouple the feedline from unwanted noise. A DX
Engineering Receive Feedline Choke, part number DXE-RFCC-1 will
also ensure feedline decoupling.
Connect a suitable 75 Ω feedline to the type F connector OUTPUT.
Leave a small loop in the feedline to relieve stress on the AVA
connection and securely attach the feedline to the mast below the
mounting plate. Route the feedline away from the antenna at the exact
center and at right angles to the antenna elements. When using a rotator,
allow enough slack in the feedline so the antenna rotates without
binding. Figure 7
- 9 -
For single antenna installations, the DXE-FVI-1 Feedline Voltage Injector is usually installed near
the operating position. When using the Active Receive Antenna, the DXE-FVI-1 powers the
ARAH active matching amplifier through its ANT feedline connection. See Figure 7.
Important Note: DO NOT connect the ANT terminals to the feed line shield or attach the
feed line shield to the amplifier case.
The feedline connectors must remain dry. Do not place any intentional DC shorts or opens on
the feedline between the FVI-1 and the ARAH. This includes lightning arrestors, splitters, or
any other accessory not intended for feedlines that carry power or control voltages.
The included 120 VAC 60 Hz, +12 Vdc wall mounted transformer power
supply connects to the +12 Vdc input. The center of the 2.1mm power plug is
positive. Larger power supplies or station power may also be used provided
there is an in-line 1 ampere fast-blow fuse. The RCA phono-style plug
connects to the receiver antenna input.
See Appendix A for Radio Interface Options
Coaxial Cable Feedline
Flooded 75 Ω CATV type feedline cable (F-6) is strongly recommended for use with the ARAH
systems. DXE-F6Flooded 75 Ω CATV type feedline cable has a bonded foil to improve shielding.
Moisture typically seeps in around the shield and can cause increased noise. Flooded style cables
have the distinct advantage of automatically sealing small accidental cuts or lacerations of the
jacket. Flooded cable also prevents shield contamination and has a gummy liquid inside that seals
cuts or nicks, displaces water, and can be direct buried.
The feedline is used to provide power for the ARAH matching unit. We
recommend the use of DXE-SNS6-25Snap-N-Seal type F connectors to
ensure high quality and weather resistant feedline connections. Use the
proper tool to crimp these connectors.
To help decouple the feedline from radiated noise, bury the feedline for some distance from the
antenna when the feedline reaches the ground. A DXE-RFCC-1 DX Engineering Receive Feedline
Choke will also ensure feedline decoupling.
- 10 -
Low Frequency Response - Internal Jumpers
The sensitivity response of the ARAH System does not need to be changed for most installations
above 3.5 MHz.
However, if you are interested in
primary frequencies below 3.5
MHz, some adjustment may be
required to increase sensitivity or
eliminate interference from strong
broadcast stations. Refer to Figure
8 for various jumper settings.
Figure 8
For access to the jumpers, remove
the two #2 Phillips Screws on each side of the ARAH unit and remove the bottom. The circuit
board and jumper headers will be visible as shown in Figure 8. The ARAH has five internal
jumpers that modify frequency versus gain response. The L jumpers change the inductance values
and C jumpers change the capacitance values.
As shipped, all jumpers are deactivated.
Installing jumpers in L1MF, L1HF or both, will configure the antenna for a sensitivity peak near the
frequencies listed in Figure 8. The frequency response above the peak frequency does not change
significantly. Below the peak frequency, sensitivity reduction is reasonably fast. Installing a jumper
in any C1 position when jumpers are being used in L1 will move the peak response lower in
frequency, decreasing sensitivity at higher frequencies.
To enhance weather resistance after the jumper settings are finalized, run a bead of non-corrosive
silicone (PTX-82180) along the upward facing seams of the aluminum housing. Leave a small
opening in the lower seams to function as a condensation drain.
- 11 -
Troubleshooting Information
When using the DXE-ARAH3-1P Active Receive Horizontal antenna, the actual received signal
level will be lower than a transmit antenna. Depending upon a few variables, including the
frequency of the measured signal, your DXE-ARAH3-1P Active Receive Horizontal antenna is
probably operating normally.
The DXE-ARAH3-1P is designed to be a very low to no gain, low noise system for greatly
improved signal-to-noise performance over a very wide range of frequencies.
The installation location should be away from towers, transmitting antennas, metal structures and
metal fencing in order to take advantage of the DXE-ARAH3-1P Active Receive Horizontal
antenna capabilities. The antenna should me mounted on its own mast at a minimum of 20 feet in
height.
Normally the Active Receive Horizontal antenna will properly reject high angle sky wave signals,
which is the goal for a low band DXing receive antenna. Low angle, long range DX signals are
easier to copy using an Active Receive Horizontal antenna system.
Here are a few things that you may check to be sure that the Active Receive Horizontal antenna is
operating normally:
1) Measure the voltage arriving at the antenna end of the feedline. The DXE-FVI-1 Feedline
Voltage Injector unit should be providing in excess of +13.5 Vdc, and the Active is expecting
around +11 Vdc or more for proper function. Bench tests on the DXE-ARAH3-1P are normally
about 60 mA, so with some voltage drop on the line, 40 to 50 mA should be okay. If the
measured voltage at the end of the line is under +11 Vdc, then there may be a resistive
connection along the feedline being used. As a point of reference, DX Engineering has many
customers using the DXE-F6-CTL/1000high quality 75 Ω “flooded” F6 type coax. Flooded
style cables have the distinct advantage of automatically sealing small accidental cuts or
lacerations of the jacket. Flooding also prevents shield contamination and can be direct-buried.
This low-loss cable features dual shields and an 85% Velocity Factor and is ideal for long runs
on four and two antenna arrays without trouble.
2) Double check the jumpers inside the AVA2 unit. As shown in the manual, for full range
coverage, a default condition of no jumpers installed should be found and used for broadcast
band reception. If any jumpers are installed, you can expect signal levels to be dramatically
reduced in the broadcast band. However, even with no jumpers, there is a significant roll-off of
signal level from the top to the bottom of the broadcast band.
3) After tuning in a steady, non-fading reference signal on the broadcast band and noting the signal
level, add 4 radials that are about 15 feet long to the negative terminal ground rod connection on
the AVA2. If this significantly increases signal level, then adding another ground rod and/or
more radials, as described in the manual for the DXE-ARAH3-1P, should improve your signal
results for all bands.
- 12 -
4) When disconnecting the power to the Active Receive Horizontal antenna, there should be very
little or no signal. In other words, verify that powering the Active Receive Vertical antenna
results in improved signal level and signal-to-noise enhancement, without a large increase in
noise. If there is almost the same amount of signal without and with power, there are two
possible issues:
a) Proper operating voltage is not arriving at the Active Receive Horizontal antenna, or;
b) If you seem to have a high amount of common mode signal or noise arriving on the
shield of the Active Receive Horizontal antenna feedline that is running on or above
ground or similar noise as your transmit antenna, for some installations the DXE-RFCC-1 Receive Feedline Current Choke may help. The use of the DXE-RFCC-1
Receive Feedline Current Choke will remove common mode signal and noise collected
by the shield of the feedline in order to realize normal signal-to-noise improvements
available from an Active Receive Horizontal antenna.
Given that all connections are good, voltage at the AVA2 is good and that the other tests indicate
everything is normal, it is likely the signal level you are receiving is normal.
In most circumstances, the DXE-ARAH3-1P Active Receive Horizontal antenna used singly, or in
two and four antenna arrays, offers low level low band signals that have significantly improved
signal-to-noise. It is sometimes necessary to enhance these results to listening levels by using the
DXE-RPA-1 Receive Pre-Amplifier in line, without losing the signal-to-noise benefits of the nogain Active Receive Horizontal antenna. Only the DXE-RPA-1 Receive Pre-Amplifier operates
with a third order intercept and dynamic range that is far superior to most receiver front-ends.
- 13 -
Appendix A - Radio Interface Diagrams
The following shows typical interface diagrams for the ARAH3-1P Active Receive Horizontal
Antenna System. Every radio manufacturer and every amateur radio operator's location is
different. The following is only a suggestion, and you should consult your radio manufacturer's
manual for details and further requirements.
Shortwave Receiver
ARAH3-1P Active Receive Horizontal Antenna System (two ARAH Receivers) configured as a
rotating receive only dipole.
- 14 -
ARAH system located greater than 1/2-wavelength from any transmitting antenna, connected to a
transceiver with a receive input.
- 15 -
ARAH system located between 1/10-wavelength and 1/2-wavelength from the transmitting antenna,
connected to a transceiver with a receive input using the DXE-TVSU-1A Time Variable Sequencer
Unit for proper switching.
- 16 -
Optional Items
DXE-F6 - 75 Ω F-6 Style, Direct Bury Coaxial Cable: Full Spool or Custom Cable Assemblies
DX Engineering recommends using a high quality 75 Ω “flooded” F6 type coaxial cable. Flooded style cables have
the distinct advantage of automatically sealing small accidental cuts or lacerations of the jacket. Flooding also
prevents shield contamination and can be direct-buried. This low-loss cable features dual shields and an 85% Velocity
Factor.
Custom cable assemblies are available, Call DX Engineering for details.
DXE-SNS6 Snap-N-Seal connectors are recommended for use with this coaxial cable to ensure a high quality and weather resistant feedline connection. The proper tool DXE-SNS-CT1 must be used to install these connectors.
DXE-CPT-659 - Coax Cable Stripper for CATV F-6, RG-6 and RG-59 coaxial cable.
Coax Cable Stripper for CATV F-6, RG-6 and RG-59 coaxial cable.
Includes 1 Replacement Blade - DXE-CPT-659
Prepares CATV F-6, RG-6 and RG-59 coaxial cable for the installation of "F" type connectors - One-step cutting
motion
Precision cut
No nicks or scratches to conductor
Snap-N-Seal is an environmentally sealed CATV F coaxial connector system for harsh environments. The connectors have a unique,
360 degree radial compression system that offers the signal leakage protection required for high performance receive systems.
Quad sealed system prevents moisture from migrating into the connection
360 degree radial compression provides superior RF integrity (-95 dB typical, 60% bonded foil cable)
Easy cable preparation
Connector to cable retention of 40 lbs minimum
Superb impedance match to 1 GHz
Manufactured of high quality 360 brass, cadmium plated for maximum corrosion resistance
UV-resistant plastic and O-rings provide a reliable environmentally sealed connector
An installation tool, such as the DXE-SNS-CT1 is required to install the connectors. Normal crimping tools or
pliers will not work.
DXE-SNS-CT1 - Compression Tool for Snap-N-Seal 75 Ω Coaxial Connectors
Ratchet compression tool for installing DXE-SNS6 Snap-N-Seal coaxial connectors.
Ordinary pliers will not install these connectors properly.
DXE-RPA-1 - Receiver Preamplifier 0.3-35 MHz
This is the best HF low noise amplifier available. The RPA-1 is optimized for 0.3-35 MHz operating range. The push-pull amplifier
design and robust components enable it to withstand high signal levels and operate when you need it most. The dynamic range of the
RPA-1 is better than most receivers. The RPA-1 is suitable for indoor or outdoor installation, with the option of being powered
through the coaxial feed. The metal housing provides shielding and improved lifespan. The unit uses RCA type phono jack and
CATV F connector for the input and output connections, and has a relay that automatically bypasses the amplifier when dc power is
removed.
Benefits:
Push-pull operation eliminates harmonic distortion
High quiescent current increases ability to handle strong signals without distortion or overload
Meticulous craftsmanship and durable components provide superior dynamic range
RCA type phono jack and type F connector ease installation
Simplified switching - automatic bypass eliminates gain when dc power is off
10-18 Vdc power using power connector or through the coax
10-18 Vdc through coax enables remote operation at antenna
- 17 -
DXE-TVSU - Time Variable Sequencer Unit
The DX Engineering TVSU-1A Time Variable Sequencer Unit is a microprocessor-based transmit / receive control-signal delay
unit. It provides 0-30 ms of delay, programmable in 2 ms increments, to as many as five
outputs tied to the CW keying or push-to-talk (PTT) lines. By controlling the receive-totransmit (and back) timing of linear amplifiers, preamplifiers, and other sensitive equipment,
damage caused by improper switching can be eliminated. This sequencer improves CW
performance by eliminating annoying leading edge chopping or truncating of Morse
characters. This is especially important in contests or pileups where sending accuracy is
critical.
Now RoHS compliant, the TVSU can also control external devices such as preamps, active antennas, or external relays that need to
have power removed during transmit. Separate power-in and power-out jacks on the front panel are used to control external power in
this type of application. Two 2.1 mm power plugs and two 3.5mm stereo plugs are provided.
Benefits
Control timing of PTT turn-on, hang delay of PTT, amplifier hang delay, external antenna relay hang delay and
turn-on delay of auxiliary output
Dip switch settable delays of 0-30 milliseconds in 2 millisecond steps
Side tone generator that follows input of keyer or hand key not transmitter
Side tone pitch can be programmed from 300 to 1000 Hz in 50 Hz steps, front panel headphone jack with adjustable
volume
Supports CW full break in
Can control external power to our Active Receive Antennas and permit operation in closer proximity to transmit antennas
Reduce overload or interference by nulling a strong local signal or noise before it gets to your receiver
Better and more stable nulling than any other noise canceller on the market
Peak weak signals hidden under a strong signal on the same frequency
Null out local AM broadcast stations
Null out noise from power line arcing, lamp dimmers, motors and consumer electronics arriving from a single direction
Antenna Phasing Controller
Best alternative to DX Engineering's Receive Four-Square antenna
Combine two antennas to create a directional pattern
The NCC-2 enables you to adjust the antenna array pattern as if you were moving the antennas
Use for direction finding
Special Features
Exceptional Dynamic Range, nearly 1000 times better than nearest competitor
Phasing is voltage controlled allowing precise resetting of phase
Phasing rotates more than 360 degrees with smooth control
Built-in two channel voltage controlled attenuator system
Low noise, high dynamic range amplifiers
Vastly superior dual channel complementary phasing system
Very low noise floor
Separate controls for reversing channel and phase
Works on all modes, 300 kHz to 30 MHz
Provides power for external active antennas
Input for mute on transmit
- 18 -
DXE-RFCC-1 - Receive Feedline Current Choke, 50 to 75 ohm 300 kHz to 30 MHz
*PTX-81343
Anti-Seize, 1 oz. Squeeze Tube
*PTX-81464
Anti-Seize, 8.5 oz. Aerosol Can
*DXE-NSBT8
Never-Seez, 8 oz. Brush Top
*DXE-NMBT8
Never-Seez, 8 oz. Brush Top, Marine Grade
If you wish to reduce feedline radiation and improve reception, a Feedline Current Choke is recommended if your SWR is already
low. Adding a DX Engineering Feedline Current Choke at the point where the feedline exits the area of the antenna will substantially
reduce unwanted feedline radiation or reception without the need for improved station grounding.
The advantages of using an FCC:
Prevents unwanted RFI by eliminating feedline current and radiation
All power goes to the antenna, improving efficiency
Reduces noise or unwanted signals picked-up by the feedline
Overcome a less than optimal ground system
The DX Engineering RFCC-1 receive feedline common-mode choke is the most effective solution
to common-mode noise or unwanted signal ingress available to date.
The DX Engineering RFCC provides thousands of ohms isolation between the input and output
coaxial shield connections while passing desired signals, including dc or low frequency ac control signals. The RFCC has extremely
high isolation impedance which effectively blocks common-mode noise or unwanted signals, even in the presence of very poor
grounding. Low noise receive antennas are traditionally located away from electrical wiring and other noise sources. Unfortunately,
noise and other unwanted signals have a direct path to your low-noise antenna through the feedline shield connections between the
station equipment and antenna. Unwanted signals can also energize the outside of the feedline shield, and this undesired signal
energy can be conducted directly to the receiving antenna. This can reduce antenna directivity. Unless you have a perfect zeroresistance RF ground at the antenna, some of the common-mode noise or unwanted signals from the feedline shield will make it into
the antenna.The RFCC is effective from 300 kHz to 30 MHz. It comes with standard CATV type “F” female connectors, although it
can be used in any 50 to 75 ohm receiving system. The RFCC is a passive device, therefore requires no power to operate.
PTX-81343/81464 Never-Seez and DXE-NSBT8/NMBT8 Anti-Seize
An Anti-seize compound MUST be used on any Stainless Steel nuts, bolts, clamps or other hardware to prevent
galling and thread seizure. Any of these products can be used for this purpose.
* These products are classified hazardous and are limited to domestic UPS Ground shipping only
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Technical Support
If you have questions about this product, or if you experience difficulties during the installation,
contact DX Engineering at (330) 572-3200. You can also e-mail us at:
DXEngineering@DXEngineering.com
For best service, please take a few minutes to review this manual before you call.
This unit is RoHS (Reduction of Hazardous Substances) compliant. The components,
including the solder used are all lead free. If you decide to do any modifications or internal
repairs, you should use only lead free solder and lead free soldering tools. Lead free solder
melts approximately 100 degrees higher than the old leaded solder, so you may need to
upgrade your current soldering system.
Warranty
All products manufactured by DX Engineering are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a
period of one (1) year from date of shipment. DX Engineering’s sole obligation under these warranties shall be to issue
credit, repair or replace any item or part thereof which is proved to be other than as warranted; no allowance shall be
made for any labor charges of Buyer for replacement of parts, adjustment or repairs, or any other work, unless such
charges are authorized in advance by DX Engineering. If DX Engineering’s products are claimed to be defective in
material or workmanship, DX Engineering shall, upon prompt notice thereof, issue shipping instructions for return to
DX Engineering (transportation-charges prepaid by Buyer). Every such claim for breach of these warranties shall be
deemed to be waived by Buyer unless made in writing. The above warranties shall not extend to any products or parts
thereof which have been subjected to any misuse or neglect, damaged by accident, rendered defective by reason of
improper installation, damaged from severe weather including floods, or abnormal environmental conditions such as
prolonged exposure to corrosives or power surges, or by the performance of repairs or alterations outside of our plant,
and shall not apply to any goods or parts thereof furnished by Buyer or acquired from others at Buyer’s specifications.
In addition, DX Engineering’s warranties do not extend to other equipment and parts manufactured by others except to
the extent of the original manufacturer’s warranty to DX Engineering. The obligations under the foregoing warranties
are limited to the precise terms thereof. These warranties provide exclusive remedies, expressly in lieu of all other
remedies including claims for special or consequential damages. SELLER NEITHER MAKES NOR ASSUMES ANY
OTHER WARRANTY WHATSOEVER, WHETHER EXPRESS, STATUTORY, OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS, AND NO PERSON IS AUTHORIZED TO ASSUME
FOR DX ENGINEERING ANY OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY NOT STRICTLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
FOREGOING.
DX Engineering®, DXE®, DX Engineering, Inc.®, Hot Rodz®, Maxi-Core®, DX Engineering THUNDERBOLT®, DX
Engineering Yagi Mechanical®, EZ-BUILD®, TELREX®, Gorilla Grip® Stainless Steel Boom Clamps, Butternut®,
SkyHawk™, SkyLark™, SecureMount™, OMNI-TILT™, RF-PRO-1B®, AFHD-4® are trademarks of PDS Electronics,
Inc. No license to use or reproduce any of these trademarks or other trademarks is given or implied. All other brands
and product names are the trademarks of their respective owners.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
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