The Chelegance MC‑599 shortwave dipole antenna is designed for portable and versatile use across multiple amateur radio bands. Proper adjustment of the antenna whip is essential to achieve optimal performance, reduce standing wave ratio (SWR), and ensure reliable transmission and reception.
1. Attach Whips Before Extending
Before extending the whip sections, make sure each whip is properly mounted to the antenna base. Once the antenna is securely installed, you can carefully extend the whips to their desired lengths for each band. This ensures stability and prevents damage during setup.
2. Start from the Thinnest End
Always extend the whip from the thinnest section first, gradually pulling each segment out. Avoid bending, forcing, or twisting the sections. Smooth, gradual extension ensures the integrity of the antenna and prevents damage.
3. Whip Lengths for Each Band
The following are suggested whip lengths for operation on specific bands. The MC‑599 whip includes markings on certain sections to indicate recommended lengths for various bands.
(Note: This whip does not have a marking for 50 MHz, but the table includes all recommended lengths.)
| Band | Whip Adjustment |
| 50 MHz | Pull out 2 sections + 10 cm |
| 28 MHz | Pull out 5 sections + 15 cm |
| 24 MHz | Pull out 6 sections + 15 cm |
| 21 MHz | Pull out 7 sections + 25 cm |
| 18 MHz | Pull out 9 sections + 10 cm |
| 14 MHz | Pull out 12 sections + 7 cm |
4. Additional Tips
- Avoid bending or forcing the sections: The MC‑599 whip is designed for smooth telescopic extension.
- Fine adjustment improves SWR: Small changes in whip length can significantly improve signal performance.
- Portable setup considerations: When deploying in the field, ensure the antenna is vertically aligned and clear of obstructions for best results.
5. Summary
Correctly adjusting the whip of the MC‑599 ensures that each band operates efficiently, providing better signal clarity and transmission reliability. Following the suggested lengths and taking care when extending the whip will maximize the performance of your MC‑599 antenna.
Learn More About: