SWITCHING MADE SIMPLE: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF THE MFJ-4724 FOUR-POSITION ANTENNA/TRANSCEIVER SWITCH

Author: Marius Lubbe ZS1ML

www.learnminds.co.za

Hello fellow ham radio enthusiasts! Today, I will offer you a detailed review of the MFJ-4724, a 4-position desktop/remote transceiver/antenna switch that’s caught my attention for its unique and elegant solution to a common problem. If you’ve ever faced the challenge of managing multiple antennas and transceivers, you’ll find this review quite insightful. Let’s explore what makes the MFJ-4724 a standout product, especially considering my own particular setup.

My Transceivers and Antennas

I have as my transceivers an IC-7300 and an IC-7000 plus as antennas a DX Commander Classic, a Full Wave 80m Delta Loop, and an End Fed Half Wave 10-40m, and I’m planning to set up a Hexbeam for 10-, 15-, 20- and 40m antennas. Imagine the possible pairings with the MFJ-4724. The flexibility and convenience it offers is truly remarkable!

Why I Acquired the MFJ-4724

I acquired the MFJ-4724 as a perfect solution for a practical problem of constantly having to unscrew and re-attach various combinations, as the situation demands. Do you need 80m HVIS or serious DX? Now you have options at the flick of a switch. The convenience and efficiency it has brought to my ham radio experience are unparalleled.

Features and Description

Place this MFJ-4724 Four-Position Antenna/Transceiver Switch on your desk or place it out-of-way under your desk or in another room and use a remote control. Select one of four antennas and one of four transceivers in any combination with just two easy-to-use rotary switches. Plug in antenna tuner, SWR/Wattmeter or other into its common ports, so it is always connected to the antenna and radio selected.

The MFJ-4724 is more than just a switch; to me, it’s a solution to a complex problem. With the ability to connect any one of four antennas to any one of four transceivers using just two rotary switches, it offers a total of 16 different combinations (4 transceivers x 4 antennas). The possibilities are endless, especially with my current setup!

All unused inputs are grounded. When rotary switches are in the OFF position, all inputs are grounded or control is transferred to MFJ-4724RC, $59.95, remote control. Automatically grounds all inputs when you turn off the transceiver. Lightning surge protector protects transceivers and shunts surges to the ground.

Designed to be placed on a desk or even in another room, it provides flexibility in setup. The switch automatically grounds all inputs and outputs when the transceiver is turned off or when DC power is removed. All unused inputs and outputs are grounded, and surge protectors are included to protect your precious equipment by shunting surges to the ground.

The MFJ-4724 offers full 1500 Watt capability from 1.8-54 MHz and is usable up to 150 MHz. It requires 12 VDC for power and is designed for indoor use.

Outstanding Build Quality

What sets the MFJ-4724 apart in my eyes is its outstanding build quality. Crafted with precision and robust construction, it ensures durability and reliability. It’s a long-lasting investment that you can trust.

Use Case Scenarios

Now, let’s delve into some real-world scenarios where the MFJ-4724 shines:

1. Remote Antenna Selection: I can switch between four antennas from the comfort of my operating station. No more manual changing of connections!
2. Antenna Comparison: I can compare different antennas in real-time and find the optimal setup.
3. Integration with Automated Systems: I can integrate the switch into an automated system for optimal performance without manual intervention.
4. Outdoor and Remote Locations: I can operate from a remote location and switch between antennas without physically accessing the switch.
5. Redundancy and Backup: I can quickly switch to a backup antenna in case of failure, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
6. Multiple Transceiver and Antenna Combinations: I can manage multiple transceivers and antennas, offering a total of 16 different combinations. Perfect for those running multiple radios for different purposes.

Positive User Feedback

Users have praised the MFJ-4724 for its:

• Ease of Use: Convenient switching between different antennas and radios.
• Design: Neat appearance with all cables on the back of the unit.
• Functionality: Works as advertised, providing good isolation and quality performance.

Conclusion

The MFJ-4724 is a versatile and functional switch that can be a valuable addition to any ham radio setup. Its ability to connect multiple antennas to multiple transceivers with ease makes it a convenient tool for enthusiasts like me. The outstanding build quality ensures that it’s a reliable and durable solution.

Its dimensions are 165.1 mm x 101.6 mm x 50.8 mm (6.5 inches x 4 inches x 2 inches), and it weighs approximately 0.91 kg (2 pounds). It operates on a voltage of 12-14 VDC, suitable for various power sources.

In summary, the MFJ-4724 is more than just a switch; it’s a versatile tool that enhances the ham radio experience, simplifying complex setups, and providing a reliable solution. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or an enthusiast like me, experimenting with different configurations, the MFJ-4724 streamlines the process, allowing you to focus on what you enjoy most about ham radio.