Kenwood AT-230 Antenna Tuner Manual

The Kenwood AT-230 is an automatic antenna tuner designed for amateur radio applications, featuring automatic tuning capability, wide impedance matching range, 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. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Automatic tuning system, RF power meter, antenna connectors, control interface, power supply input.

Feature	Description
Automatic Tuning	Automatically matches antenna impedance to transmitter
Frequency Range	1.8-30 MHz coverage
RF Power Handling	Up to 200W PEP
Impedance Range	16.7-150 ohms
Memory Channels	Stores tuning data for quick recall
Power Requirements	13.8V DC ±15%
Tuning Speed	Typically 3-5 seconds
Antenna Connectors	SO-239 for antenna and transceiver
Control Interface	Compatible with Kenwood transceivers
Power Consumption	Standby: 0.1A, Tuning: 1.5A max

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface near transceiver.

Connect to transceiver: Use appropriate coaxial cable between tuner ANT OUT and transceiver ANT IN.
Connect antenna: Use coaxial cable between tuner ANT IN and antenna feed point.
Connect control cable: Attach control cable between tuner and compatible Kenwood transceiver.
Connect power: Use supplied power cable to 13.8V DC power source.
Ground connection: Connect ground terminal to station ground.

WARNING! Ensure proper grounding for safety. Do not operate without antenna connected.

First-Time Setup

Power on tuner; follow initialization procedure.

Power connection: Connect to 13.8V DC power supply.
Transceiver connection: Ensure control cable is properly connected to compatible Kenwood transceiver.
Antenna connection: Verify antenna is connected to ANT IN port.
Initial tuning: Select desired frequency on transceiver and initiate tuning cycle.
Memory storage: Tuner automatically stores successful tuning settings.

CAUTION! Do not transmit during tuning process. Ensure adequate ventilation.

Specifications

Frequency Range: 1.8-30 MHz
RF Power: 200W PEP max
Impedance Range: 16.7-150 ohms
Tuning Speed: 3-5 seconds typical
Memory Channels: Stores tuning data for quick recall
Power Supply: 13.8V DC ±15%
Current Consumption: Standby: 0.1A, Tuning: 1.5A max
Connectors: SO-239 (antenna/transceiver), 6-pin DIN (control)
Dimensions: Standard 19-inch rack mountable
Weight: Approximately 3.5 kg

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER switch, TUNE button, MEMORY indicator, RF POWER meter.

Remote Control: Via compatible Kenwood transceiver interface.

Tuning Modes: Automatic tuning initiated by TUNE button or transceiver PTT. Memory Function: Automatically stores successful tuning parameters. Power Meter: Displays forward and reflected power during operation. Bypass Mode: Direct connection between transceiver and antenna (manual selection).

Connecting Equipment

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

Turn off all equipment before making connections.
Use high-quality coaxial cables for RF connections.
Ensure control cable is properly seated in both tuner and transceiver.
Verify power polarity before connecting DC power.

Tip: Use shortest possible coaxial cables to minimize losses.

Operation

Automatic tuning for optimal antenna matching.

Power on: Switch POWER to ON position.
Select frequency: Set desired frequency on transceiver.
Initiate tuning: Press TUNE button or key transceiver PTT.
Monitor tuning: Observe RF POWER meter during tuning cycle.
Transmit: Once tuning completes, normal transmission can begin.
Memory recall: Tuner automatically recalls stored settings for previously tuned frequencies.
Manual override: Use bypass mode for direct antenna connection when needed.

WARNING! Do not touch antenna or connectors during transmission. Monitor SWR regularly.

Maintenance

Regular inspection and cleaning recommended.

Keep unit clean and dry. Inspect connectors periodically for corrosion. Ensure adequate ventilation during operation. Check power connections for tightness.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before cleaning. Use only dry cloth for exterior cleaning.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European markets. Designed for amateur radio service use only. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. 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 seating; restart unit.
High SWR	Antenna connection	Verify antenna connection; check for cable damage; ensure proper grounding.
Memory not storing	Internal memory	Reset unit; re-initialize memory; check power supply stability.
Overheating	Ventilation/power	Ensure adequate ventilation; check for obstructions; verify power supply rating.
No RF output	Connections/settings	Check all RF connections; verify transceiver settings; test with known good antenna.

Reset: Disconnect power for 30 seconds to reset internal memory.

Service: Contact authorized Kenwood service center; www.kenwood.com