J F wrote:
Actually Vic, I think a few folks might be interested
in this topic on the reflector (for a while). I, too,
have a number of steppers and would like to use them
for remote tweaking of a phased array.
I do know there are several controller kits available
and easily found. The question seems to be, what kind
of stepper do you have and exactly how do you wish to
control it? The are two options that seem to be the
most flexible, using a "Basic Stamp" or a PIC.
I've received a great deal of input from folks on the reflector. What I have is
a unipolar motor, which turns out to have been manufactured by Panasonic. I
also have since removed various other steppers from old disk drives. I've
ordered a driver kit from <http://www.electronickits.com> for $23, and there is
one offered for $13 at <http://store.qkits.com/moreinfo.cfm/QK179>.
I think I am not going to try to control it with a microprocessor at first. My
L-network tuner will have a rotary inductor and variable capacitor, and possibly
a relay to switch in a fixed capacitor. I will first try to set it up so it can
be tuned remotely using switches, buttons, possibly an encoder, etc. I will
also provide some kind of position feedback to help me find preset positions
quickly. If I'm successful, then I will think about automatically finding
presets or even tuning to minimize SWR.
Controllers are available that interface directly to a PC. One possible
application would be to completely control a remote K2 -- including the RF and
AF gain controls -- from a PC.
--
73,
Vic, K2VCO
Fresno CA
http://www.qsl.net/k2vco
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