Author: Marius Lubbe ZS1ML
www.learnminds.co.za
A LIFETIME INVESTMENT FOR NEW HAMS
Hey, let’s kick things off by talking about something that’s close to my heart: helping new hams get started. You know, diving into the world of ham radio can be a bit overwhelming. There are so many gadgets, gizmos, and technical jargon to wrap your head around. But here’s the good news: the MFJ-993B is like your trusty Swiss Army knife in this exciting journey.
Why do I say that? Well, when you’re new to the game, you’re probably dabbling in a bit of everything—DXing, contesting, local nets, you name it. The MFJ-993B is so versatile that it can handle all these scenarios and more. It’s packed with features and connectors that you won’t easily outgrow. In fact, this tuner is designed to be a lifetime companion in your ham radio adventures. So, if you’re a new ham looking for a one-size-fits-all solution, this is it. It’s an investment that will keep on giving, year after year.
NOT JUST FOR NEWBIES: A BOON FOR ESTABLISHED HAMS
Now, if you’re an established ham, you might be thinking, “Is this tuner for me?” The answer is a resounding yes! Trust me, once you get your hands on the MFJ-993B, you’ll quickly realize the quality and range of features it offers. It’s not just a tuner for beginners; it’s a tuner for anyone who appreciates top-notch performance and versatility. It’s like upgrading from a reliable old car to a high-performance sports car—you didn’t know what you were missing until you experienced it.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Alright, now that we’ve covered why this tuner is a gem for both newcomers and seasoned pros, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. First off, the MFJ-993B is a dual power auto tuner that operates between 1.8-30 MHz. It comes with a price tag of $329.95 USD as of November 2023, which, let’s be honest, isn’t too shabby for what you’re getting.
POWER AND IMPEDANCE
Now, let’s talk about power. The tuner has two settings: 300 Watts (6-1600 Ohms) and 150 Watts (6-3200 Ohms). This flexibility in power and impedance is a big plus, especially if you’re dealing with a variety of antennas. It’s like having a tuner that speaks multiple languages; it just gets along with everyone!
FEATURES GALORE
Ah, the features! The MFJ-993B is an IntelliTuner, which means it automatically tunes unbalanced and balanced antennas. And it does it ultra-fast, thanks to its 20,000 memories. Yep, you read that right—20,000! It’s like having a personal assistant that remembers everything for you. It also comes with an antenna switch, an efficient L-network, and a 4:1 current balun.
SWR AND WATTMETER
One of the standout features is the Cross-Needle and Digital SWR/Wattmeter. This is incredibly useful for real-time monitoring and adjustments. It’s like having a co-pilot who’s always got your back. You can keep an eye on things without breaking a sweat.
CONNECTORS GALORE
Now, let’s talk connectors, because this tuner is loaded with them:
- Two SO-239 Unbalanced Coax Antenna Connectors: These are your standard connectors for most antennas. Handy for quick swaps or for running multiple antennas.
- Random Wire or Single Wire Antenna Connector: If you’re into experimenting with wire antennas, this one’s for you.
- Built-in 4:1 Current Balun for Balanced Line Antennas: This is a big deal if you’re using balanced line antennas. It’s built right in, so there is no need for external gadgets.
- Optional Radio Interface for Compatible Radios: This is an add-on, but it’s a good one if you want to integrate the tuner with your radio seamlessly.
- 9-Pin to 9-Pin Computer Cable for Remote Operation: This allows you to operate the tuner at a distance using the MFJ-993RC. Imagine being able to tweak your settings from the comfort of your chair, without having to dash over to the tuner every time. It’s convenience at its best!
- 12V DC Connector: The unit requires less than 1 amp of 12V DC power for operation. Pretty standard, but essential.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS AND ACCESSORIES
You can also get an ICOM interface cable for the MFJ-993B, which goes for an additional $39.95. This is particularly useful if you’re looking to integrate it with other ICOM devices. It’s like adding a turbo boost to an already powerful machine.
FINAL THOUGHTS
So, is the MFJ-993B worth it? Absolutely. It’s versatile, powerful, and packed with features that make it a valuable addition to any ham radio setup. The price is reasonable, and the performance is top-notch. What more could you ask for?
And there you have it, my friends, a comprehensive, connector-rich review of the MFJ-993B antenna tuner. Whether you’re a seasoned ham radio operator or a newbie, this tuner has something for everyone.
Until next time, 73!
