MFJ -817C Instruction Manual

MFJ-817C Deluxe VHF/UHF True Peak Reading SWR/Wattmeter
MFJ-817C Deluxe VHF/UHF True Peak Reading

Introduction

The MFJ-817C is a true peak reading SWR/Wattmeter designed to operate on
144/220/440 MHz. This meter uses our TrueActive™ peak reading circuit to read true
peak/average forward and reflected power and SWR simultaneously. It has 300/30 Watts
forward and 60/6 Watts reflected power scales. The MFJ-817C utilizes a large
illuminated three-inch Cross-Needle meter to read the SWR from 1:1 to ∞.
IMPORTANT:
Please read entire manual before attempting to operate this equipment. This
unit does not provide a dc or low frequency earth ground. A separate wire
should be connected from the station ground bus to an electric ground. Do
not place any non-coaxial feed wires near metallic or RF sensitive devices.

Installation

1. Connect your transmitter to the connector on the back of the unit labeled
TRANSMITTER and your antenna to the connector labeled ANTENNA. It is
important that you use good quality coax and properly installed connectors.
2. The MFJ-817C has a TrueActive™ peak reading circuit that requires a DC power
supply such as the MFJ-1312B in order to function. A 9 VDC may also be
installed inside the meter with a battery clip that is included. The rear panel
accepts a 2.1 mm coaxial plug with the center conductor positive (+) and the
sleeve negative (-). The negative lead is grounded inside the meter. There is no
need to disconnect the battery when using external power.
3. An internal lamp backlights the meter scale. The lamp circuit requires 12 VDC
and will not illuminate with the 9 VDC battery alone.
4. To measure the power output capability of a transmitter/amplifier you should
connect a quality 50-ohm dummy load to the ANTENNA connector of the MFJ-
817C.
NOTE:
The wattmeter must have a power source in order to function. A nine -volt
battery may be installed in the compartment on the rear panel, or an external
12 VDC source, such as the optional MFJ-1312D power supply, may be used.
SWR/Wattmeter
1
Instruction Manual