MFJ MFJ-1401 User Manual

MFJ-1401 Mobile to Base Station Ground Plane Kit

Introduction

The MFJ-1401 Mobile to Base Station Ground Plane Kit converts most mobile antennas into a
base station antenna. The kit will safely handle up to 200 Watts. It accepts VHF/UHF mobile
antennas with a PL-259 connector. It includes stainless steel mounting hardware, two hose
clamps, one allen wrench, and four 20 inch radials.

Choosing a Mast

Choose the mast you mount your VHF/UHF antenna on carefully. Make certain that the mast
will support your antenna under extreme conditions. The Ground Plane Kit will attach to any
mast up to 2 inches in diameter The base of the mast should be secured in a way to withstand
wind and inclement weather. Guy ropes/wires may be necessary depending on your particular
installation. Never place your antenna and mast in a location in which it could come into

contact with power lines.

Assembly

1. Remove the Ground Plane Kit from the packaging.

2. Loosen one set screw on the top of the SO-239 connector of the base assembly. Insert
one radial into the side hole with the loose set screw and re-tighten the set screw.
Repeat this procedure for each of the 4 radials.
Warning: Be careful not to damage or cause injury with the radials as you

ssemble the Ground Plane Kit.

3. Secure the assembled ground plane kit onto your desired mast using the hose
clamps provided. Secure the clamps using a 3/15 Nut driver or flat-head screwdriver. Be
careful not to over-tighten.

4. Align the threads on the base of your antenna with threaded SO-239 adapter on the
ground plane kit bracket. Screw the antenna into place, Hand-tighten the antenna.
Again be careful not to over-tighten.

5. Attach your coaxial cable to the assembled antenna and ground plane kit. The coaxial
SO-239 connector will accept any coaxial cable with a PL-259 connector. The coaxial
cable should be secured to the antenna mast to prevent damage to the cable due to
wind. Also the PL-259 connector at the antenna should be sealed with coax seal to
keep moisture out of the connector.

NEVER INSTALL AN ANTENNA IN A LOCATION IN WHICH THE ANTENNA OR
MAST COULD CONTACT A POWER LINE. DEATH, SERIOUS INJURY, AND
DAMAGE MAY OCCUR.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

If you have any problem with this unit first check the appropriate section of this manual. If the manual
does not reference your problem or your problem is not solved by reading the manual, you may call MFJ
Technical Service at 662-323-0549 or the MFJ Factory at 662-323-5869. You will be best helped if you
have your unit, manual and all information on your station handy so you can answer any questions the
technicians may ask.

You can also send questions by mail to MFJ Enterprises, Inc., 300 Industrial Park Road, Starkville, MS
39759; by facsimile (FAX) to 662-323-6551; or by email to [e-mail]. Send a
complete description of your problem, an explanation of exactly how you are using your unit, and a
complete description of your station.