MFJ-1702 Antenna Switch (Please Hold Down the Laughing)

Unidener

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What I want to do is use my feed line to feed my HF transceiver and my scanner via the switch. When not using the ham radio, I would like to use the switch to connect the scanner to the antenna.......Can it work this way in reverse? 1 antenna input and change to scanner or change to ham radio?

Thanks and go ahead with the funny comments.....:)
 

rf_patriot200

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What I want to do is use my feed line to feed my HF transceiver and my scanner via the switch. When not using the ham radio, I would like to use the switch to connect the scanner to the antenna.......Can it work this way in reverse? 1 antenna input and change to scanner or change to ham radio?

Thanks and go ahead with the funny comments.....:)
I would use a Alpha Delta switch rather than the MFJ, due to better Isolation.
 

Unidener

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It should work fine under about 500MHz. Probably not the best switch for 700/800MHz.
Bummer......I some switches don't easily give you the frequency range and I did see what you mean from info on one switch....I just didn't know if instead of switching between 2 antennas to one radio, I would use it to switch the antenna feed from one radio or the other.

Should I give up or do is this concept ok IF there is no frequency issue? Should I spend the time and see if there may be a switch that will cover
I would use a Alpha Delta switch rather than the MFJ, due to better Isolation.
I just realized...I've kind of cross posted....when thinking about my situation:

Think I'm gonna try this TW-102 2 Position Coaxial Switch It does state in the questions:
"This coaxial switch can be used reversely to connect one antenna to two radios, allowing you to switch between radios using the same antenna. According to the product description, this switch has a frequency range of DC-1000MHz and impedance of 50 Ohm. Multiple customers have confirmed that this switch can be used to connect one antenna to two radios."


Freq coverage is fine.....guess I'll check it out!


Unless anyone has a better suggestion! Thanks all!
 

rf_patriot200

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Freeport, Illinois
Bummer......I some switches don't easily give you the frequency range and I did see what you mean from info on one switch....I just didn't know if instead of switching between 2 antennas to one radio, I would use it to switch the antenna feed from one radio or the other.

Should I give up or do is this concept ok IF there is no frequency issue? Should I spend the time and see if there may be a switch that will cover

I just realized...I've kind of cross posted....when thinking about my situation:

Think I'm gonna try this TW-102 2 Position Coaxial Switch It does state in the questions:
"This coaxial switch can be used reversely to connect one antenna to two radios, allowing you to switch between radios using the same antenna. According to the product description, this switch has a frequency range of DC-1000MHz and impedance of 50 Ohm. Multiple customers have confirmed that this switch can be used to connect one antenna to two radios."


Freq coverage is fine.....guess I'll check it out!


Unless anyone has a better suggestion! Thanks all!
Antenna Switches are a GREAT accessory, and I'm glad I have mine. Here's an example for one; I have minimal real estate for antennas, as I live in a complex. I have 4 Vhf/Uhf radios of different capabilities paired to One vhf/uhf antenna, using a A/D switch, and the arrangement works well. 3 Digital Scanners are on a Stridsberg MA204Mil coupler, to One triband scanner antenna, again with great results. There's all sorts of ways these switches can solve problems. :)
 

D31245

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Dec 11, 2023
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Unless anyone has a better suggestion
Another option is the Diamond CX-210 Coaxial Switch. Tank-like/robust build.

I use mine to switch between antennas but others use it to switch radios.
IMG_2830.jpeg

Good reviews on eHam and DX Engineering:
 

Unidener

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Another option is the Diamond CX-210 Coaxial Switch. Tank-like/robust build.

I use mine to switch between antennas but others use it to switch radios.
View attachment 163316

Good reviews on eHam and DX Engineering:
Thanks....may order this one!
 

K4EET

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I would use an Alpha Delta switch rather than the MFJ, due to better Isolation.
As @rf_patriot200 stated, isolation between the ports is important. Make sure that there is enough isolation so that you won’t blow the front end on the non-transmitting radio. Also, nobody asked if you are running 1,500 watts on the transmit side. That would probably not be good for the other radio’s front end. I always call the manufacturer if the isolation between ports is not specified then do the math to make sure the front end won’t blow on the other radio. Exercise caution…

73, Dave K4EET
 

Unidener

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As @rf_patriot200 stated, isolation between the ports is important. Make sure that there is enough isolation so that you won’t blow the front end on the non-transmitting radio. Also, nobody asked if you are running 1,500 watts on the transmit side. That would probably not be good for the other radio’s front end. I always call the manufacturer if the isolation between ports is not specified then do the math to make sure the front end won’t blow on the other radio. Exercise caution…

73, Dave K4EET
I guess I'll use the switch but if I'm going to transmit, I'll just pop off the BNC at the scanner.....easier than unscrewing pl259s....
 
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