MFJ -1126 Instruction Manual

MFJ-1124/1126/1128/1129 DC Power Outlets Instruction Manual
MFJ Deluxe DC Multi-Outlet Strips
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing an MFJ Deluxe DC Power Outlet. These are very versatile for channeling
power from one DC power supply to HF or VHF radios as well as multiple accessories at the same time,
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using Anderson Powerpole connectors and 5-way binding posts. This alleviates the problems in making
multiple connections to the same DC power supply terminals.
The MFJ-1124, MFJ-1126, MFJ-1128 and MFJ-1129 have various complements of DC output
terminals. All but the basic MFJ-1124 have both some outlets unswitched, for radios, and some switched,
for station accessories. All the MFJ-1124 outlets are unswitched. In all models, every outlet is
individually fused. All connections are RF bypassed to reduce line noise. The following table illustrates
the four models' configurations.
All models have a master 40-amp input fuse, limiting the combined total current draw of the outlet strip.
All models except the MFJ-1124 have a meter that monitors output voltage from the power supply.
POWER RATING
Each unswitched outlet can handle up to 40 amps, but all unswitched outlets combined should not have a
total of more than 40 amps. Similarly, switched accessory outlets should not have a combined total of
more than 20 amps. It is the operator's responsibility to ensure that the equipment connected to these
power strips is within these power ratings.
On all models the unswitched outlets are best used for power connections to high-current draw devices,
i.e., radios.
A range of different color-coded fuses are supplied with each power strip. You may move around any of
these fuses, but remember to stay within the maximum current limitations above. Check the specifications
for each accessory you connect to an unswitched outlet and match the accessory's power draw (in amps)
with a fuse of the same value. Standard ATC/ATO automotive fuses are used and readily available.
These power strips cannot be used for AC applications. They do not regulate voltage or power in any
way. The output to equipment depends on the input to the strip from the power supply. Maximum voltage
is 24 volts at 20 amps for unswitched outlets and 10 amps for switched accessory outlets.
INSTALLATION
Choose a convenient location close to your radios and accessories, especially those that draw larger
amounts of current. Make sure that the location you have chosen is cool, dry, and well ventilated.
Connect the two heavy leads from the power strip to your DC power supply. The red (+) cable should be
connected to the positive (+) terminal and the black (-) cable should be connected to the negative (-)
terminal of the power supply. A ground wire should be connected from the station ground bus to the
ground terminal on the case of the power strip. Due to the high current involved, the ground wire should
be of appropriate length and gauge for safety to equipment and the operator – a good rule of thumb is the
ground wire should be as short and as large as practical.
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