Rotor-EZ

I use a Hy-Gain T2X Tailtwister rotor for my tower. Since I am legally blind and continue to lose my remaining vision, a computer interface for the rotor is a great help. I found this upgrade kit and just had to try it. They warn that this kit is not for beginners and I tend to agree. The instructions were a little confusing at times and I didn't have a clear understanding of just how this thing works regarding the calibration process. A call to Idiom Press helped though. In fact, the calibration was the most difficult part of this project. This upgrade adds many features such as serial interface using Hy-Gain DCU-1 protocol, auto 5 second brake delay, auto brake release, a 90 degree offset feature for rotatable dipoles, preset direction then hands free rotation plus more. Once finished and calibrated, it works great. See their web site for details:IDiom Press Rotor-EZ.
Inside the control box

Inside view of the stock rotor control box before the upgrade.

 

Rotor box with analog board coming out

The first step is to remove the original analog board from behind the meter.

 
Close-up of digital circuit board

Here is the digital board that replaces the original analog circuit board. This comes as a kit of parts so this board needs to be assembled. Not too difficult. It uses a Microchip PIC micro-controller as the brain. The two holes in the center of the board is for mounting to the back of the meter.


Modified front panel

The front panel needs to be modified with the addition of four LED indicators.


Rotor box with digital board installed

Here is the control box after the upgrade with the new digital board installed in place of the original analog board secured to the back of the meter.


Inside view of control box

Another view of the completed rotor control box.

Ladder line viewed from chimney

An additional hole is needed on the rear panel to accommodate the RS-232 cable.