TM-8085000709
DIGITAL AUTOMATIC
ANTENNA COUPLER
CU-9125
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
MANUAL
SUNAIR 3005 SW Third Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33315-3389
WARRANTY POLICY
GROUND AND MARINE PRODUCTS
Sunair Electronics warrants equipment manufactured by it to be free from
defects in material or workmanship, under normal use for the lesser of one (1)
year from the date of installation or 15 months from date of shipment by Sunair.
Sunair will repair or replace, at its option, any defective equipment or component
of the equipment returned to it at its factory, transportation prepaid, within such
warranty period. No reimbursement will be made for non-factory repair charges.
This warranty is void if equipment is modified or repaired without authorization,
subject to misuse, abuse, accident, water damage or other neglect, or has its
serial number defaced or removed.
THIS WARRANTY IS ESPECIALLY IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. The obligation and responsibility of Sunair shall be limited to that
expressly provided herein and Sunair shall not be liable for consequential or
other damage or expense whatsoever therefore or by any reason thereof.
Sunair reserves the right to make changes in design or additions to or
improvements in its equipment without obligation to install such additions or
improvements in equipment theretofore manufactured.
SUNAIR ELECTRONICS, INC.
CU-9125
DIGITAL AUTOMATIC
ANTENNA COUPLER
SUNAIR
OPERATION
AND
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
FIRST EDITION, AUGUST 1, 1990
SECOND REVISION, JULY 1993
Page changes 1: 3/15/00
PRODUCT SERVICE:
PRODUCT SERVICE:
In case of difficulty please contact the Sunair
In case of difficulty please contact the Sunair
Product Service Department, between the hours
Product Service Department, between the hours
of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM or write to:
of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM or write to:
Product Service Dept.
Product Service Dept.
Sunair Electronics, Inc.
Sunair Electronics, Inc.
3101 SW Third Avenue
3101 SW Third Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33315-3389
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33315-3389
U.S.A.
U.S.A.
Telephone: (954) 525-1505
Telephone: (954) 525-1505
Fax: (954) 765-1322
Fax: (954) 765-1322
TRAINING:
TRAINING:
Sunair offers training programs of varying lengths
Sunair offers training programs of varying lengths
covering operation, service, and maintenance
covering operation, service, and maintenance
of all Sunair manufactured equipment. For
of all Sunair manufactured equipment. For
details please contact the Product Service
details please contact the Product Service
Department.
Department.
SUNAIR CU-9125
TABLE of CONTENTS
Section Description Page
I GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Scope
1.2 Description
1.2.1 General
1.2.2 Assemblies
1.2.2.1 Chassis Assembly 2A1
1.2.2.2 RF Assembly 2A2
1.2.2.3 Computer Board 2A3
1.2.2.4 Detector/Pad Assembly 2A4
1.3 Specifications
1.3.1 General
1.3.2 Environmental
1.4 Equipment Supplied
1.5 Equipment Required But Not Supplied
1.6 Optional Equipment Not Supplied
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-1
1-3
1-3
1-4
1-4
1-4
1-5
II INSTALLATION
2.1 General
2.2 Unpacking and Inspection
2.3 Return of Equipment to Factory
2.4 Power Requirements
2.5 Installation Considerations and Mounting Information
2.5.1 General Installation Procedures and Requirements
2.5.2 Mounting Considerations
2.5.2.1 Base Station Installation
2.5.2.2 Vehicular Installation
2.5.2.3 Marine Installation
2-1
2-1
2-1
2-2
2-2
2-2
2-3
2-3
2-3
2-3
i
SUNAIR CU-9125
TABLE of CONTENTS (Cont...)
Section Description Page
2.6 Antenna and Ground Systems
2.6.1 General
2.6.2 Narrow Band 50 Ohm Antennas
2.6.3 Random Length Non-resonant Antennas
2.7 Construction of Control Cable Assembly 8076004195
2.8 Checks After Installation
III OPERATION
3.1 Antenna Coupler Tuning
IV THEORY OF OPERATION
4.1 General
4.2 Antenna Tuning Network
4.3 Detector/Pad Assembly 2A4
4.3.1 General
2-9
2-9
2-9
2-10
2-12
2-14
3-1
4-1
4-1
4-1
4-3
4.3.2 Magnitude Discriminator
4.3.3 Phase Discriminator
4.3.4 Forward and Reflected Power Detector
4.3.5 6 dB Attenuator Pad Assembly
4.3.6 Tune Relay
4.4 Computer Board Assembly with Sleep Circuit
4.4.1 General
4.4.2 Phase Discriminator Interface
4.4.3 Magnitude Discriminator Interface
4.4.4 ‘RF Present’ Detector
4.4.5 VSWR Comparator
4.4.6 Reflected Power Meter Driver
4.4.7 Reference Voltage Sources
4.4.8 Tune Relay Latch
4-3
4-3
4-3
4-4
4-4
4-4
4-4
4-5
4-5
4-5
4-5
4-6
4-6
4-6
ii
SUNAIR CU-9125
TABLE of CONTENTS (Cont...)
Section Description Page
4.4.9 Microprocessor Circuits
4.4.9.1 General
4.4.9.2 Microprocessor U1
4.4.9.3 Address Decoder U2
4.4.9.4 Address Latch U3
4.4.9.5 Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
(EPROM) U4
4.4.9.6 Input Port
4.4.9.7 Output Ports
4.4.9.8 Timer
4.4.9.9 Random Access Memory (RAM)
4.4.9.10 Electrically Erasable Programmable Read
Only Memory (EEPROM) U14
4.5 Chassis Assembly 2A1
4.5.1 General
4-6
4-6
4-6
4-7
4-7
4-7
4-8
4-9
4-10
4-10
4-10
4-10
4-10
4.5.2 RF Assembly 2A2
4.5.3 Motherboard 2A1A1
V ALIGNMENT
5.1 General
5.2 Preventive Maintenance
5.3 Inspection
5.4 Repair or Replacement
5.4.1 General Precautions
5.4.2 Circuit Card Assembly, Two-Lead Component
4.5.2.1 General
4.5.2.2 Theory of Operation
Removal
4-10
4-10
4-11
4-11
5-1
5-1
5-1
5-3
5-3
5-3
iii
SUNAIR CU-9125
TABLE of CONTENTS (Cont...)
Section Description Page
5.4.3 Circuit Card Assembly, Multi-lead Component
Removal
5.4.4 Removal of Components of Doubtful Condition
5.5 Performance Test
5.5.1 Test Equipment
5.5.2 Preliminary
5.5.3 CU-9125 Alignment Procedure for Computer
Board Assembly 2A3
5.5.4 Alignment Procedure for Detector/Relay Pad
Assembly 2A4
5.6 Schematics and Parts Lists
5-3
5-4
5-4
5-4
5-5
5-6
5-9
5-44
iv
SUNAIR CU-9125
LISTING of FIGURES
Section Description Page
I GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 CU-9125 Major Assembly Locations. 1-2
II INSTALLATION
2.1 Outline Mounting Details CU-9125. 2-4
2.2 Shockmount Installation. 2-5
2.3 Typical Base Station Installation
Using Non-Resonant Antennas. 2-6
2.4 Typical Vehicular Installation. 2-7
2.5 Coupler Grounding. 2-8
2.6 Whip Antenna. 2-10
2.7 Inverted “V” Antenna. 2-11
2.8 Longwire Antenna. 2-11
2.9 Wiring Diagram, Control Cable (8076004195). 2-13
IV THEORY OF OPERATION
4.1 CU-9125 Block Diagram. 4-2
V ALIGNMENT
5.1 Antenna Coupler Cover Removal. 5-2
5.2 Computer Board Test Point and Adjustment Locations. 5-6
5.3 Detector Pad (2A4) and Extender Card Test Point
and Adjustment Locations. 5-8
5.4 Coupler Test. 5-10
5.5 Major Assembly and Component Locations
(Front View). 5-12
5.6 Major Assembly and Component Locations
(Top View). 5-13
5.7 Major Assembly and Component Locations
(Bottom View). 5-14
5.8 Major Assembly and Component Locations
(Right Side View). 5-15
v
SUNAIR CU-9125
LISTING of FIGURES (Cont...)
Section Description Page
5.9 Major Assembly and Component Locations
(Left Side View). 5-16
5.10 Front Panel Wiring Diagram. 5-17
5.11 Motherboard Assembly 2A1A1, page 1 of 3. 5-47
5.11 Motherboard Assembly 2A1A1, page 2 of 3. 5-48
5.11 Motherboard Assembly 2A1A1, page 3 of 3. 5-49
5.12 Input Board 2A2A1, page 1 of 2. 5-50
5.12 Input Board 2A2A1, page 2 of 2. 5-51
5.13 Intermediate Board 2A2A2, page 1 of 2. 5-52
5.13 Intermediate Board 2A2A2, page 2 of 2. 5-53
5.14 Inductor Board 2A2A3, page 1 of 2. 5-54
5.14 Inductor Board 2A2A3, page 2 of 2. 5-55
5.15 Output Board 2A2A4, page 1 of 2. 5-56
5.15 Output Board 2A2A4, page 2 of 2. 5-57
5.16 Computer Board Assembly 2A3, page 1 of 6. 5-58
5.16 Computer Board Assembly 2A3, page 2 of 6. 5-59
5.16 Computer Board Assembly 2A3, page 3 of 6. 5-60
5.16 Computer Board Assembly 2A3, page 4 of 6. 5-61
5.16 Computer Board Assembly 2A3, page 5 of 6. 5-62
5.16 Computer Board Assembly 2A3, page 6 of 6. 5-63
5.17 Detector/Relay Pad Assembly 2A4, page 1 of 2. 5-64
5.17 Detector/Relay Pad Assembly 2A4, page 2 of 2. 5-65
5.18 TS-100 Antenna Simulator Schematic. 5-66
vi
SUNAIR CU-9125
LISTING of TABLES
Section Description Page
IV THEORY OF OPERATION
4.1 Magnitude Discriminator Truth Table 4-8
4.2 Phase Discriminator Truth Table 4-8
4.3 Truth Table BCD Channels 00-09 4-9
V ALIGNMENT
5.1 Fault Analysis 5-11
5.2 Fault Analysis and Troubleshooting Computer Board 2A3 5-19
5.3 Table of Assemblies 5-44
5.4 Parts List of CU-9125 Major Assemblies 5-45
vii
SUNAIR CU-9125
TABLE of ABBREVIATIONS
ADDR Address
AGC Automatic Gain Control
ALC Automatic Level Control
AM Amplitude Modulation
AME Amplitude Modulation Equivalent
AMP/AMPL Amplifier
ARQ Automatic Request
AUD Audio
AUTO Automatic
AUX Auxiliary
BAUD A variable unit of data transmission speed (bits
per second)
BELL U.S. Telephone standards
BFO Beat Frequency Oscillator
BITE Built In Test Equipment
BRD Board
CH /CHAN /CHL/CHN Channel
CLR Clear
CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor
CPLR Coupler
CPU Computer
CW Carrier Wave
dB Decibel
dBm Decibels referred to 1 milliwatt across 600 ohms
DSBSC Double Sideband Suppressed Carrier
DSP Display
DUART Dual Asynchronous Receive/Transmit
EEPROM Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read
Only Memory
EPROM Electrically Programmable Read Only Memory
EMI Electromagnetic Radiation Interference
ENTR Enter
FAX Facsimile
FEC Forward Error Correction
FREQ Frequency
FSK Frequency Shift Keying
FWD Forward
GRP Group
HF High Frequency
Hz Hertz
IC Integrated Circuit
IF Intermediate Frequency
I/O Input/Output
IONCAP Ionospheric Communications Analysis
and Prediction
kHz Kilohertz
kW Kilowatt
ISB Independent Sideband
LCD Liquid Crystal Display
LCL Local
LED Light Emitting Diode
LK Link
LO Local Oscillator
LP/LPX Lincompex
LRU Lowest Repairable Unit
LSB Lower Sideband
LT Light
LVL Level
MAN Manual
M CH Manual Channel
MED Medium
MHz Megahertz
MIC Microphone
MIL-STD Military Standard
MNL Manual
ms Millisecond
MTTR Mean Time To Repair
MTR Meter
NAR Narrow
O.D. Olive Drab
PA Power Amplifier
PC Printed Circuit
PEP Peak Envelope Power
PLL Phase-Locked Loop
P/N Part Number
PNL Panel
POSTSL Post-Selector
PRESEL Pre-Selector
PTT Push-To-Talk
PWR Power
RCV/RX Receive
REFL Reflected
REV Revision
RF Radio Frequency
RFI Radio Frequency Interference
RFL Reflected
RMT Remote
RS232 Computer control, hardwired up to 50 feet maximum
RS422 Computer control, hardwired up to 4000 feet
maximum
RS485 Computer control, hardwired for multiple users
RTTY Radio Teletype
SEL Select
SLO Slow
S MTR Signal Strength Meter
SPKR Speaker
SPLX Simplex
SRAM Static Random Access Memory
SSB Single Sideband
TCXO Temperature Controlled Crystal Oscillator
TGC Transmit Gain Control
THD Total Harmonic Distortion
TTL Transistor Transistor Logic
TX/XMT Transmit
USB Upper Sideband
UTC Universal Time
VCO Voltage Controlled Oscillator
VHF Very High Frequency
VRMS Volts Root Mean Square
VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio
W Watt
WPM Words Per Minute
* Asterisk indicates function selected
SUNAIR CU-9125
SECTION I
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 SCOPE
This manual contains information necessary to install, operate, maintain and repair the CU-9125 Automatic Digital
Antenna Coupler.
1.2 DESCRIPTION
See Figure 1.1
1.2.1 GENERAL
The CU-9125 is a high quality remotely controlled antenna coupler capable of matching a wide variety of
antennas ranging from 9 ft. whips to 150 ft. longwires over the frequency range of 1.6000 to 29.9999 MHz. In
addition, the coupler may be used as a “line flattener” to correct the VSWR of resonant antennas.
The CU-9125 is designed to operate in conjunction with the Sunair 9000 Series Equipment utilizing Cable
Assembly p/n 8076004098 at separations of up to 250 feet. Manual tuning cycles are initiated by depressing
the “CPLR TUNE” pushbutton on the 9000 Series Transceiver or Exciter. Tuning status metering for indicating
forward and reflected power are located on the radio equipment. The coupler is mounted in a sturdy, fully
gasketed case designed for outside mounting near the antenna.
1.2.2 ASSEMBLIES
1.2.2.1 CHASSIS ASSEMBLY 2A1
The Chassis Assembly provides the required mounting surfaces for the various electrical and mechanical
components. The Motherboard 2A1A1 serves as the interconnect for all assemblies.
1.2.2.2 RF ASSEMBLY 2A2
The four (4) boards comprising the RF Assembly are the Input Board 2A2A1, the Intermediate Board 2A2A2,
the Inductor Board 2A2A3 and the Output Board 2A2A4. The boards contain all of the variable binary elements
in the antenna matching network.
1.2.2.3 COMPUTER BOARD 2A3
This assembly contains the microprocessor responsible for the operation and functions of the CU-9125.
1.2.2.4 DETECTOR/PAD ASSEMBLY 2A4
The Detector Assembly 2A4A1 contains the magnitude, phase and VSWR detectors. The Pad Assembly
2A4A2 plugs into the Detector Assembly and protects the Transceiver/Exciter from impedance variations during
the tuning cycle.
1-1
SUNAIR CU-9125
OUTPUT BOARD
2A2A4
INDUCTOR BOARD
2A2A3
DETECTOR/PAD ASSEMBLY
2A4
TOP VIEW W/O COVER
INTERMEDIATE BOARD
2A2A2
INPUT BOARD
2A2A1
FAN ASSEMBLY
P/0 CHASSIS ASSEMBLY
2A1
1-2
MOTHERBOARD
2A1A1
COMPUTER BOARD
2A3
BOTTOM VIEW W/O COVER
Figure 1.1 CU-9125 Major Assembly Locations.
SUNAIR CU-9125
1.3 SPECIFICATIONS
1.3.1 GENERAL
FREQUENCY RANGE: 1.6 to 30 MHz.
TUNING CAPABILITIES: 9 ft. whips
16 ft. whips
23 ft. whips
35 ft. whips
50 ft. to 150 ft. longwires
suitable as a line flattener for broadband antennas
RF INPUT POWER: 150 Watts PEP and AVERAGE.
INPUT IMPEDANCE: 50 Ohms, non-reactive.
DUTY CYCLE: Continuous for antennas 23 feet and longer. Fifty percent (maximum 5 minutes
continuous key down time) for 9 and 16 ft. antennas.
TUNING TIME: Memory Tuning - 10 milliseconds or less.
Non-Memory Tuning: - Typical: 1 second.
Maximum: 10 seconds.
Memory: Non volatile, 128 channels (00 - 127).
TUNE POWER REQUIRED: 25 Watts RF delivered.
TUNE ACCURACY: 1.5:1 VSWR maximum.
REMOTE CAPABILITY: Up to 250 ft. from Transceiver/Exciter.
POWER INPUT: +28 VDC from Transceiver/Exciter, 1 Amp maximum.
WEIGHT: 23 lbs (10.35 kgs).
DIMENSIONS: (Inches) 9.1H X 9.6W X 11.4D.
(CM) 23.1H X 24.4W X 28.96D.
1-3
SUNAIR CU-9125
1.3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL
TEMPERATURE: Operating: -30oC to +65oC.
Storage: -50oC to +85oC.
HUMIDITY: MIL-STD 810C, Method 507.1, Procedure II.
SHOCK: MIL-STD-810C, Method 516.2, Proc I, Figure 516.2-2, Ampl. b (20 g.), Dur.d.
VIBRATION:MIL-STD-810C, Method 514.2 equipment category f, Table 514.2-VI for wheeled vehicles, Figure
514.2-6, curve V.
DUST: MIL-STD-810C, Method 510.1, Procedure I.
RAIN: MIL-STD-810C, Method 506.1, Procedure I.
PACKAGING: Rain tight, for exposed installations.
1.4 EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED
Automatic Digital Antenna Coupler, CU-9125,
Connector Kit,
Operation and Maintenance Manual,
1.5 EQUIPMENT REQUIRED BUT NOT SUPPLIED
Control Cable Assembly:
Order by length desired. The Coupler will operate with up
to 250 ft. of remote control cable.
Cable, Control. Specify length.
Cable, Coaxial, RG-58A/U:
Recommended where separation between Transceiver/
Exciter and Coupler is less than 100 ft. Specify length.
Cable, Coaxial, RG-8/U:
Recommended where separation between Transceiver/
Exciter and Coupler exceeds 100 ft. Specify length.
SUNAIR PART NUMBER
8085000253 Grey
8085000296 Olive Drab
6035002099
8085000709
8076004195
0588680001
0588130001
0588640000
1-4
Cable, Coaxial, RG-213:
Same as RG-8/U.
Connector, RF, PL-259:
Mates with antenna connector J4 on 9000 Series.
1010770021
0742190005
1.6 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT NOT SUPPLIED
SUNAIR CU-9125
Transceiver/Exciter
Shockmount Kit - CU-9125
PC Assy, Extender CU-9125
Depot Spare Parts Kit
Field Module Kit
PC Assy, Detector Extender Board
Antenna Simulator Model TS-100
Consult Sunair Marketing Dept.
8080000492
8080002096
8085900092
8085902095
8085165091
8084001094
1-5
SUNAIR CU-9125
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.
1-6
SUNAIR CU-9125
SECTION II
INSTALLATION
2.1 GENERAL
Section II contains all necessary instructions for the unpacking, inspection, and if necessary, reshipping of
damaged equipment or parts. In addition, further information regarding location and mounting considerations,
power requirements, antenna and ground system hook-ups and final checkouts after installation is also provided.
2.2 UNPACKING AND INSPECTION
As soon as you have received your unit(s), unpack and inspect all components and accessories. Check the packing
list to be sure you have received all items ordered and that all items necessary for operation have been ordered.
NOTE: Be sure to retain the carton and its associated packing materials
should it be necessary to reship damaged equipment.
Do not accept a shipment when there are visible signs of damage to the cartons until a complete inspection is made.
If there is a shortage of items or any evidence of damage, insist on a notation to that effect on the shipping papers
before signing the receipt from the carrier. If concealed damage is discovered after the shipment has been
accepted, notify the carrier immediately in writing and await his inspection before making any disposition of the
shipment. A full report of the damage should also be forwarded to Sunair’s Product Services Department. Include
the following:
a) Order Number
b) Model and Serial Number
c) Name of Transportation Agency
d) Applicable dates.
When Sunair receives this information, arrangements will be made for repair or replacement.
2.3 RETURN OF EQUIPMENT TO FACTORY
The shipping container for the CU-9125 has been carefully designed to protect the equipment during shipment. The
container and its associated packing materials should be used to reship the unit. When necessary to return
equipment to Sunair for warranty or non-warranty repair, an authorization number is required. This number can
be obtained from our Product Services Department, Telephone: (954)-525-1505, FAX: (954)-765-1322.
If the original shipping carton is not available, be sure to carefully pack each unit separately, using suitable
cushioning material where necessary. Very special attention should be given to providing enough packing material
around connectors and other protrusions from the coupler. Rigid cardboard should be placed at the corners of the
equipment to protect against denting.
When returning subassemblies or components for repair or replacement, be sure to pack each item separately,
using suitable cushioning material.
2-1
SUNAIR CU-9125
Shipment to be made prepaid consigned to:
Sunair Electronics, Inc.
Product Services Department
3101 SW Third Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33315-3389
U.S.A.
Plainly mark with indelible ink all mailing documents as follows:
U.S. Goods Returned For Repair
Value For Customs - $100.00
Mark ALL SIDES of the package:
FRAGILE - ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT!
NOTE: Before shipping, carefully inspect the package to be sure it is marked
properly and is securely wrapped.
2.4 POWER REQUIREMENTS
All power necessary to operate the CU-9125 Automatic Digital Antenna Coupler is supplied from a companion
Exciter/Transceiver via the Control Cable Assembly. See Figure 2.8 for control cable connections. If an Exciter/
Transceiver other than a Sunair model is used, an external power source of +28VDC at 1.0 amp is required to power
the CU-9125.
2.5 INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS AND MOUNTING INFORMATION
The satisfactory operation of the equipment will depend upon the care and thoroughness taken during the
installation.
IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS
2.5.1 GENERAL INSTALLATION PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS
1. Carefully plan radio/coupler/antenna locations, observing the following requirements before starting
installation.
2. Provide best possible RF ground for radio and coupler. Use flat copper strap 1" wide or #6 (or larger) wire
and connect to the ground terminal at rear of radio. Leads to ground system should be as short as possible.
3. Provide the maximum separation between coupler output and the radio with its associated wiring. Coupler
may be mounted up to 100 feet from radio when RG-58 is used, and up to 250 feet from radio when RG-8 or
RG-213 is used.
4. The antenna lead from the coupler to antenna must be insulated for at least 10 kv potential. The lead should
not run parallel to metal objects that are bonded to the system ground. The coupler should be as close to the
antenna as possible, and never more than three (3) feet away as this will decrease antenna efficiency.
5. If the coupler is installed on a wood or fiberglass boat, a 12 square foot minimum area of metal surface
area in contact with the water should be provided for use as an RF ground.
2-2
SUNAIR CU-9125
6. If operating the coupler on external DC power, check for correct polarity before applying power.
7. The installation should be carefully planned beforehand in accordance with drawings on the following
pages.
8. Linear amplifiers with low level modulation such as used in Sunair Exciters/Transceivers will oscillate if the
RF power output is radiated or conducted into the low level stages. Evidence of this situation is erratic or
excessive power output. This is caused by too close proximity of the coupler output and antenna to the
Transceiver/Exciter and/or inadequate RF grounds. Carefully following the above procedures will prevent this
from occurring.
2.5.2 MOUNTING CONSIDERATIONS
See Figure 2.1 for Coupler dimensions.
2.5.2.1 BASE STATION INSTALLATION
A typical base installation consisting of an RT-9000 and a CU-9125 is shown in Figure 2.3. (Consult the RT-
9000 Operation and Maintenance Manual, p/n 8076000505, for installation details for the Transceiver.) The
CU-9125 can also be used with the T-9400 HF/ISB Exciter. (Consult the T-9400 HF/ISB Exciter Operation
and Maintenance Manual, p/n 8103000507, for installation details.) Refer to Section 2.6 for recommendations
for suitable antennas.
2.5.2.2 VEHICULAR INSTALLATION
Figure 2.4 shows a typical vehicular installation with an RT-9000 Transceiver and shockmount assembly.
NOTE: Shockmounting is required only in severe shock or vibration
environments exceeding those noted in Section 1.3.2. See
Figure 2.2 for installation.
See Section 2.6 for specific antenna recommendations. In order to minimize RF pickup, it is important that the
ground straps supplied with the shockmount, if used, be securely fastened between the ground post on the radio
and the bottom of the right rear shock isolator. (Consult the RT-9000 manual for further details.)
2.5.2.3 MARINE INSTALLATION
In marine installations, follow the same recommendations as outlined in paragraph 2.5.2.2 above. If the radio
is installed in a wood or fiberglass boat, a ground plate of 12 square foot minimum area in contact with the water
should be installed. A heavy ground lead such as 1 inch wide strap or braid should be connected between the
ground post on the radio and the ground plate. The length of this ground lead should be held to an absolute
minimum commensurate with a neat installation.
2-3
SUNAIR CU-9125
2-4
Figure 2.1 Outline Mounting Details CU-9125.
SUNAIR CU-9125
Figure 2.2 Shockmount Installation.
2-5
SUNAIR CU-9125
2-6
Figure 2.3 Typical Base Station Installation Using Non-Resonant Antennas.
SUNAIR CU-9125
Figure 2.4 Typical Vehicular Installation.
2-7
SUNAIR CU-9125
2-8
IMPORTANT NOTE:
In some installations, it may be necessary to install the CU-9125 adjacent to the
radio. Grounding is extremely important to prevent RF from feeding back into the
radio. The CU-9125 should be grounded to the front ground strap, as shown
above. In addition, the ground braid used on the rear of the radio should be as
short as possible. The interconnecting cable from the radio to the CU-9125
should be as short as possible and should not be routed under the antenna feed
wire.
Figure 2.5 Coupler Grounding.
SUNAIR CU-9125
2.6 ANTENNAS AND GROUND SYSTEMS
2.6.1 GENERAL
Sunair Exciters/Transceivers are designed to operate into a 50 Ohm resistive antenna system with a maximum
voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) of 2:1. When used with the CU-9125 Automatic Digital Antenna Coupler
the system will match antennas ranging from 9 foot whips to 150 foot longwires. Although the CU-9125 will match
9 foot whips down to 1.6 MHz, use of a 9 foot whip is not recommended for low frequency use due to poor
radiation efficiency. The CU-9125 is unique in that it can be placed close to the antenna and controlled from the
front panel of the Exciter/Transceiver. This optimizes both operator convenience and electrical performance.
As there are numerous types of antennas, a complete discussion is beyond the scope of this manual. Antennas
requiring an antenna coupler for use in the 1.6 to 30 MHz spectrum generally fall into two categories:
a) Narrow Band 50 Ohm Antennas
b) Random length non-resonant Antennas.
Antennas falling into each of the above mentioned categories are discussed in this section. For specific
recommendations, consult our Marketing and Product Support Departments.
Some general DOs and DON'Ts of antenna installation are listed below:
a) The antenna should be clear of all large objects such as trees and buildings.
b) Although the coupler will match electrically short antennas (i.e. those under 1/8 wavelength), such
antennas are not efficient radiators. If the installation permits, antennas over 1/8 wavelength long at the lowest
operating frequency should be used. Antenna length generally limits system performance in vehicular
applications at frequencies below 10 MHz as the size would be prohibitive.
c) When using whip antennas, the ground system actually forms part of the radiating system. Where space
permits (such as in a base station installation) a good ground plane or radial system should be installed at the
base of the antenna. (See Figure 2.6)
NOTE: An inadequate ground system is most often responsible for
disappointing performance when using a whip antenna.
2.6.2 NARROW BAND 50 OHM ANTENNAS
Typical of this type of antenna is the Inverted V illustrated in Figure 2.7. This type of antenna may be assembled
from the Sunair Doublet Antenna Kit (p/n 0996240004). Its operation is efficient for only a narrow band of
frequencies within approximately 2½% of their center frequency. The antenna coupler is NOT generally
required if the above frequency span is not exceeded. Separate antennas must be erected for each small band
of frequencies to be used. The antenna exhibits somewhat directional characteristics. The direction of
maximum radiation is perpendicular to the antenna wire. This antenna is particularly suitable for communication
with nearby mobile stations (with vertical antennas) since a portion of the radiation is in a vertical direction.
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SUNAIR CU-9125
2.6.3 RANDOM LENGTH NON-RESONANT ANTENNAS
Whips and longwires are popular non-resonant antennas. The whip antenna (illustrated in Figure 2.6), is often
used in mobile, marine, portable or semi-portable installations because it is rugged and self- supporting. The
antenna impedance is strongly dependent on the operating frequency, and an antenna coupler, therefore, must
be used to match the antenna to the Transceiver/Exciter. Best radiation efficiency will be obtained if the antenna
is at least 1/8 wavelength long at the lowest operating frequency; however, this requirement does not result in
a practical size antenna for low frequency operation. Thirty-five foot whip antennas offer a good compromise
between practical height and good electrical performance at low frequencies. The antenna coupler is designed
to efficiently match whip antennas of 15 foot length or greater. An efficient match may also be obtained for a
9 foot whip above 4 MHz. The whip’s performance is greatly influenced by its ground system. For temporary
base station installations, a minimum of four six-foot long ground rods should be driven into the ground
symmetrically placed around the antenna base. The rods should be bonded together with heavy strap and then
connected to the antenna coupler ground by another short heavy strap. If the antenna is mounted on the roof
of a building where a short ground lead to coupler cannot be obtained, a minimum of four symmetrically placed
ground radials should be installed at the base of the antenna, bonded together, and connected to the antenna
coupler ground post. The radials should be made of number 12 gauge wire or larger and should be at least ¼
wave long at the lowest operating frequency. (Radial length in feet = 246/frequency in MHz.) The whip’s
radiation pattern is omni-directional in the azimuthal plane.
The longwire antenna, illustrated in Figure 2.8, is a popular base station antenna where a wide range of operating
frequencies are used. The antenna impedance varies greatly with frequency and, therefore, must be matched
to the transmitter with the antenna coupler. The CU-9125 Antenna Coupler will efficiently match longwire
antennas up to 150 foot in length. The radiation pattern of the longwire antenna is also a strong function of
operating frequency. The two most popular longwire antennas, (75 and 150 foot) available from Sunair, exhibit
excellent low frequency radiation efficiency.
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Figure 2.6 Whip Antenna.
SUNAIR CU-9125
Figure 2.7 Inverted ‘V’ Antenna.
Figure 2.8 Long Wire Antenna.
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SUNAIR CU-9125
2.7 CONSTRUCTION OF CONTROL CABLE ASSEMBLY 8076004195
It is recommended that the control cable assembly be procured from Sunair. However, if necessary, the cable may
be made from individual wires of #20 AWG with an overall braided shield and PVC jacket.
The control cable assembly may be shipped from the factory without connectors attached to facilitate the routing
of this cable through walls, bulkheads, conduit, etc. After installing the cable, follow the procedure outlined below.
NOTE: The connector with the male pins (1011130009) should be wired at
the transceiver end of the cable.
The connector with female pins (0747690008) should be wired at the
coupler end of the cable. Refer to Figure 2.8
1. Loosen both screws on one of the cable clamps.
2. Insert the rubber telescoping bushing (boot) through the rubber grommet on the inside of the cable clamp
and push through until the lip on the boot bottoms on the rubber grommet. The boot should extend beyond the
cable clamp.
3. Insert the cable (0588680001) into the open end of the boot and cable clamp and pull through until
approximately six inches of cable extends from the inside of the cable clamp.
4. Carefully remove approximately 1½ inches of the plastic outer jacket of the remote control cable using a
knife or razor blade. Use care so as not to damage the shield or inner conductors.
5. Carefully unbraid the cable shield to within approximately ¼ inch of the outer jacket. Carefully cut the
unbraided shield wires at this point using a pair of small wire cutters.
6. Remove approximately one inch of insulation from the end of a three-inch piece of #22 gauge hook-up wire.
Wrap the wire around the outer jacket and solder the connection using a medium-size soldering iron. Attach
a #8 solder lug to the other end of the wire, after pulling the wire back through the telescoping bushing.
7. Note the mylar sleeve over the wire bundle. Carefully cut this sleeve, being careful not to nick the wires
in the bundle, until the wire bundle is exposed back to the end of the shield.
8. Flare out the bundle of wires and separate the individual wires. Strip approximately 1/8 inch of insulation
from each wire.
9. Choose one of the wires and carefully tin it. Solder the wire to one of the cups of the connector. Make a
chart showing the wire color code and pin connection.
10. Proceed in a similar manner until all required wires are installed.
11. When all connections are completed, screw the rear shell and cable clamp assembly on the connector and
tighten. Push a small additional amount of cable into the connector to ensure some slack. Remove one cable
clamp screw and insert the lug on the #22 shield wire. Reinsert screw into cable clamp. Tighten the two screws
on the cable clamp.
12. Follow an identical procedure to connect the other end of the cable to the proper pin as shown in Figure
2.9.
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