I just purchased a LD 5, and when I use it with a hamstick, my SWR is 1-1.5, on all bands. When I hook it up to my end fed, the SWR shoots up way over 3. Is there a automatic antenna tuner I can use? I do have a LDG Z100, will this work? Thanks. Joe W2JJT.
Yes the Z- 100 will work. You’ll have to supply a constant signal by whistling into the mike in ssb. Unfortunately, there isn’t a tune function in the rig.
You can fake a tune mode in the LD-5 by switching the CW key type to straight key, and either using a key held down, or make a small 3.5mm jack shorted to simulate a keydown situation in the ‘key’ jack.
Since I have a key with me most times I’m operating, I just use the key method, then switch back to iambic mode.
I have an older LDG AT-100 that does not work with my LD5. When the tuner searches for a match the SWR may exceed 3:1 and the LD5 then folds back power to a level that is too low for the tuner and the tuner then stops searching with now a high SWR. Not sure if your Z100 would have the same problem or even if it is a problem with newer AT-100s.
I use a manual tuner with good results with the LD5. If in SSB I switch mode to CW ( will work in auto ie iambic) and key the LD5. I actually prefer the iambic mode to straight key as I think this might be easier on the LD5. I also prefer to use the scale mode for SWR; for me it seems easier than trying to read the rapidly changing numbers
I have had my LD5 for about a month and enjoy using it. Also have the LNR 3 band Mountain Topper which is great for remote operation. I find the LD5 better for operating at home and portable near the car.
72 Ken WA2FBN
I use my Elecraft T1 ATU with both my FX-4A and my LD-5 with no problems. I think the reason it works so well is that it will tune with only 500MW or less of power.