[Elecraft] Re: Stepper Motor

[Vic Rosenthal]

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