Kenwood AT-180 Antenna Tuner Manual

The Kenwood AT-180 is a compact automatic antenna tuner designed for amateur radio applications. It features automatic tuning capability, wide frequency coverage from 1.8 to 30 MHz, built-in SWR detection, memory function for storing tuned frequencies, and compatibility with various Kenwood transceivers. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Equipment 7. Operation 8. Memory Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Automatic tuning unit, control interface, antenna connectors, power input, memory storage.

Feature	Description
Frequency Range	1.8-30 MHz coverage
Tuning Method	Automatic with manual override
Memory Channels	10 programmable memory positions
Power Handling	Up to 200W PEP
SWR Detection	Built-in SWR bridge
Antenna Connectors	SO-239 for antenna and transceiver
Power Requirements	13.8V DC, 500mA max
Control Interface	Remote control capability
Tuning Speed	Typically 3-5 seconds
Compatibility	Works with Kenwood TS- series transceivers

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place near transceiver with adequate ventilation.

Connect to transceiver: Use coaxial cable from transceiver ANT output to tuner INPUT.
Connect antenna: Use coaxial cable from tuner OUTPUT to antenna feed point.
Connect control cable: Attach control cable between tuner and compatible Kenwood transceiver.
Connect power: Use 13.8V DC power supply with correct polarity.
Connect ground: Attach ground wire to station ground system.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are secure and power is off during installation. Use proper grounding for safety.

First-Time Setup

Power on tuner; follow initialization procedure.

Power connection: Connect 13.8V DC power supply with correct polarity.
Transceiver connection: Ensure control cable is properly connected to compatible Kenwood transceiver.
Antenna connection: Verify antenna is connected to OUTPUT connector.
Initial tuning: Select frequency on transceiver and initiate auto-tune sequence.
Memory setup: Store frequently used frequencies in memory channels.

CAUTION! Do not transmit during tuning process. Ensure proper ventilation around unit.

Specifications

Frequency Range: 1.8-30 MHz continuous
Tuning Method: Automatic with L-network configuration
Power Handling: 200W PEP maximum
Impedance Range: 16.7 to 150 ohms
Memory: 10 channels for frequency storage
Tuning Speed: 3-5 seconds typical
Power Requirements: 13.8V DC ±15%, 500mA max
Connectors: SO-239 (2), DC power, control
Dimensions: 240(W) × 80(H) × 220(D) mm
Weight: 2.5 kg

Controls and Settings

Primary control through connected transceiver. Front Panel: Power indicator, tuning status LED.

Remote Control: TUNE button, memory recall, manual tuning override when available.

Operation Modes: Auto-tune (default), memory recall, manual tuning. Settings: Memory channel selection, tuning threshold adjustment, bypass mode. Indicators: Tuning in progress, tuned status, error conditions.

Connecting Equipment

Transceiver: Use control cable and coaxial connection. Antenna: Direct connection to OUTPUT. Power: 13.8V DC supply.

Turn off all equipment before making connections.
Use high-quality coaxial cables for RF connections.
Ensure control cable is properly seated in both units.
Verify power supply polarity before connecting.
Connect station ground to ground terminal.

Tip: Keep coaxial cables as short as practical to minimize losses.

Operation

Automatic tuning for optimal antenna matching.

Select frequency on transceiver.
Initiate tuning: Press TUNE button on transceiver or tuner.
Wait for completion: Tuning typically takes 3-5 seconds.
Verify SWR: Check that SWR is acceptable (typically under 2:1).
Transmit normally: Unit maintains tuning for selected frequency.
Memory store: Press MEMORY button to store current frequency setting.
Memory recall: Select stored memory channel for quick tuning.
Manual override: Use manual mode for specific tuning requirements.

WARNING! Do not touch antenna or tuner during transmission. Allow tuning cycle to complete before transmitting.

Memory Functions

10 memory channels for storing tuned frequencies and settings.

Memory Operations: Store current frequency and tuning parameters, recall stored settings, clear individual memory channels, memory lock function to prevent accidental changes.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dry. Ensure adequate ventilation. Periodically check connections for corrosion.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Use dry cloth only; no liquids or chemical cleaners. Store in dry environment when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European markets. Manufactured to Kenwood quality standards. For technical support, contact authorized Kenwood service centers or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No tuning response	Power/control cable	Check power connection; verify control cable is secure; reset unit.
High SWR after tuning	Antenna issues	Check antenna connections; verify antenna is resonant; check for damage.
Memory not storing	Memory full/battery	Clear unused memory channels; check backup battery if applicable.
Slow tuning	Frequency/antenna	Try different frequency; check antenna system for problems.
No power	Power supply	Verify 13.8V DC supply; check fuse; inspect power cable.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset microprocessor.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center for repairs.