UrbanBeam Yagi with SDA Controller* (3 options)

The third version of the UrbanBeam Yagi we offer is the 00418-PRO, and the key difference here is that instead of the SDA 100 Controller, the SDA 2000 OptimizIR is included. The OptimizIR is our top of the line controller, and includes as standard equipment all three of the options you would normally need to purchase with the SDA 100 (a transceiver interface, tuning relay, and advanced lightning protection). The OptimizIR also offers a larger, full-color display and enhanced GUI. The main upgrade however, is that the OptimizIR has the capability for the user to create antenna models. Using EZNEC, Auto-EZ or other antenna modeling software on your computer, you can then download them to the OptimizIR for use on any and all bands. In addition, some cool antennas (Max gain, max f/r, and wide-angle) come stock on the OptimizIR for use straight away, and are viewable on a full color “power band” so it is easy and intuitive to visually determine the gain/FR weighting on the antenna model. Lastly, we plan on introducing an option for a Power/SWR meter, and all the OptimizIR’s that are shipping now have the “hooks” in them for purchasing that option, when available.

180 Degree Mode: The 180 mode allows users to electrically “rotate” the antenna 180 degrees opposite the forward direction beam heading. This is accomplished with the simple press of a button, and in seconds, the transformation is complete – the Yagi is pointing in the exact opposite direction.

Bi-Directional Mode: The Bi-Directional mode function operates in a similar manner to the 180 degree mode, except when enabled, the antenna operates as a hybrid Yagi, with forward gain occurring in opposite directions, simultaneously.

Element Retract: With the Element Retract Mode, the user can retract all the elements on a SteppIR antenna to the home position, and the controller will then power down automatically. Retracting elements is an extremely valuable option in the event of inclement weather such as high winds, snow or radial icing. During lightning events, a retracted antenna greatly reduces the conductive area of the antenna platform.

Calibrate: All SteppIR antennas utilize a few watts of power to “lock” the stepper motors in-place, even when the power is turned off on the controller. This helps to keep the antenna in calibration, but it is not a critical requirement – most of the time the antenna will stay in tune regardless of power being applied. On occasion, there may be a need to calibrate the antenna. This is easily accomplished with the touch of a button – the antenna will make a growling sound as each EHU is retracted, and once completed the antenna will return to the last band/frequency it was at before the calibration commenced.