RT-600 Operations Manual
Version 1.0
13
Operation
Operation Overview
Two types of tuning cycles are available; a Memory Tuning cycle and a Full Tuning
cycle. A memory tuning cycle restores parameters saved after an earlier successful
tune on the present frequency. Those settings are checked to see that an acceptable
SWR match is found. If this fails, then a full tuning cycle automatically begins. A full
tuning cycle “starts from scratch”, rapidly trying combinations of inductance and
capacitance values, converging on the best possible match. When the tuning cycle
ends successfully, the inductance and capacitance settings are saved in a memory
associated with the present frequency so that they can be recalled in a future memory
tuning cycle. In this manner the RT-600 “learns” as you use it, adapting itself to the
bands, frequencies and antennas you use.
The RT-600 always powers up in fully automatic Memory Tuning mode. This means
that whenever RF is present, if the SWR is too high a memory tuning cycle will
automatically begin. You will probably use memory tuning most of the time; it takes
advantage of any saved tuning settings, but defaults to a full tuning cycle if no stored
data is available.
NOTE
: Before beginning a tuning cycle always bypass the amplifier. Tuning should
always be performed with 100 watts or less of forward power. Typically tuning will
occur when you make large frequency changes, or change bands.
Memory Tuning Cycle
To begin operation first bypass the amplifier. Tune the radio to the desired frequency,
press the Power button on the RC-600 to power up the RT-600, bypass your amplifier
and begin transmitting. If a high SWR condition is detected, the RT-600 Tuner will
begin tuning. To watch the progress of the tuning cycle, observe your radio’s built-in
SWR meter (or external SWR meter, if applicable). The SWR needle will oscillate as
the tuner seeks a match, and will then settle to a low SWR value when tuning is
complete. If operating on a previously memorized frequency, the tuning cycle will
last only a fraction of a second while memory settings are restored and verified. Once
tuning is complete, un-bypass the amplifier and operate normally.
Full Tuning Cycle
In some circumstances you may want the RT-600 to perform a full tuning cycle
instead of the usual memory cycle. To do this, first bypass the amplifier. Press the
Tune
button on the RC-600, begin transmitting a carrier, and while still keying the
radio, release the
Tune
button. Continue transmitting the carrier until the SWR settles
to a low value. When tuning is complete un-key, un-bypass the amplifier and begin
normal operation.
You will
probably use
fully automatic
tuning most of
the time.
Never tune at
high power.
Tuning is fully
automatic.
You can
force a full
tuning cycle.
