M2 Antenna Systems 418CP30, 400CP30A User Manual

M2 Antenna Systems, Inc. 4402 N. Selland Ave. Fresno, CA 93722

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] Web: www.m2inc.com

©2018 M2 Antenna Systems Incorporated

5/14/19

REV B

M2 Antenna Systems, Inc.

Model No: 418CP30

FEATURES:

The 418CP30 is a practical sized, yet high performance circular polarized antenna with a remarkably
clean pattern. The versatile pattern is important in order to match the antenna’s noise temperature with modern
low noise preamps. This antenna is ideal for commercial LEO satellite work and was designed with a second res­onance band at amateur frequencies of 335-338 MHz, with a peak gain of 16 dBi. The CNC machined driven
element module is O-ring sealed and weather tight for low maintenance and long-term peak performance. Inter­nal connected are encapsulated in a space-age silicone gel that seals out moisture and improves power han­dling. The 3/16” 6061-T6 rod elements are centered to minimize interaction and maintain good ellipticity. Insula­tors are UV stabilized and locked in place with stainless keepers. Rugged construction, uncompromising perfor­mance for the boom length: that's the M2 418CP30!

Model ................................. 418CP30

Frequency Ranges* ........... 414-427/435-438 MHz

Gain** .................................. 16.0 dBi

Front to back ....................... 21 dB Typical

Ellipticity .............................. 1.5 dB Typical

Beamwidth ........................ 35o circular

Feed Impedance. ................ 50  , Unbalanced

Maximum VSWR ................. 1.7:1 Max

Input Connector .................. “N” Female

Power Handling ..........................600W

Boom Length / Dia ......................128.5” / 1" Dia

Longest Element.........................13.75”, 3/16" Rod

Stacking Distance .......................50”

Mast Size ....................................1-1/2”/ 2”

Wind area / Survival .....................1 ft.2/ 120 mph

Weight / Ship Wt. ........................5 lbs. / 7 lbs. UPS

SPECIFICATIONS:

*Dual Band Resonance **Subtract 2.14 from dBi for dBd

TYPICAL TOOLS REQUIRED: measuring tape, phillips screwdriver, 5/16”, 11/32”, 7/16”, and 1/2
spin-tite, end wrenches and / or sockets. Heavy duty models may require larger sizes.

1. Lay out the boom sections and assemble using the
DIMENSION sheet as a guide for position and hardware.

2. Cut a strip of masking tape about 6” long. Fold the
ends under and stick the tape to a flat surface, sticky
side up. Lay out the elements by length and position as

shown the DIMENSION sheet. NOTE: THE ELEMENTS
IN THIS ANTENNA DO NOT ALL TAPER IN LENGTH.
Now lift off the REFLECTOR and find the rough center by
balancing it across finger. Push on a black button insulator

to about 1/2” from center. Insert the element through the

holes at the rear of the boom and install the second
button. IF THE ELEMENT IS LOOSE IN THE BUTTONS,
SQUEEZE THE SMALL END OF EACH BUTTON
SLIGHTLY WITH PLIERS UNTIL IT OFFERS
SIGNIFICANT RESISTANCE WHEN THE ELEMENT IS
INSERTED. THIS WILL HELP TO HOLD THE ELEMENT
IN POSITION DURING SUBSEQUENT OPERATIONS.
Install the 3/16” rod DRIVEN ELEMENT as you did the
reflector. Then continue with the installation of the
DIRECTORS. Note that the Director Elements may not

consistently diminish in length from rear to front, so
pay close attention to length and position.

3. Now begin centering the elements. Use a tape measure to EQUALIZE the amount the element

sticking out on each side of the boom. Once all are centered, sight down the antenna from the rear

and compare tip symmetry. Look for any
obvious discrepancies and correct if found.

4. Stainless steel SHAFT RETAINERS are used
for securing the elements and insulators.
Always use retainers for permanent and long
term antenna installations. For most portable or
temporary use, the button insulators are
satisfactory and the retainers may be left off.

5. Use thumb and index finger to hold a Shaft
Retainer over end of the 3/8” X 3” push tube
(internal fingers dished into tube). Hold the
element firmly and start the keeper onto the rod

by applying pressure with the push tube. Push

the Shaft Retainer down element until tight against the button insulator (Locking pliers, lightly
clamped up against opposite button insulator will help maintain center reference and keep you from
pushing the first Shaft Retainer too far). Repeat for the opposite side. Continue installing Shaft
Retainers until all elements are locked in place.

6. Mount the DRIVEN ELEMENT FEED BLOCKS to the boom using a single 8-32 screw 1-1/4" long.
Orient with feed and balun connectors as shown on the Dimension Sheet. The ‘T’ block mounts
behind the rear driven element.

MASKING TAPE
OR EQUIVALENT
FACE UP

ELEMENT PREPARATION

REFLECTOR

ELEPREP
M. STAAL
5-24-05

FRONT DIRECTOR

418CP30 ASSEMBLY MANUAL