niraj36

Hello... I have read a few threads on this site that you should not operate any transmitter with the antenna down. Is this true?

dsnyder

You shouldn't have the transmitter on for extended periods of time with the antenna down or removed. If a transmitter is on for extended periods of time, the output transister can overheat and weaken due to the RF not being radiated from the antenna which causes a build up of heat in the system. This weakening of the output transister will weaken the output of the system and over time could cause a reduction in range. For short periods of time it is ok, but for longer times, if the system has a module it should be removed, the antenna extended, use a trainer cord, or use a DSC cord for setting up a model.

bhanley

Danny - just a couple of points:
- anyway to quantify how long an "extended time" is?
- you seem to imply that, if the trainer cord is in such as when using the Tx with a sim, the module is not radiating and hence there is no problem. Is that correct?
Thanks

dsnyder

No, there isn't any way to quantify it, it will be different from system to system. If you feel the module or back of the case it should never be hot. If it is warm it is normal, but if it is hot, it has been on for too long with the antenna down or removed or there is a problem.

Anytime a trainer cord or DSC cord is plugged into the DSC socket, and the power switch is left off, the RF section is not powered and therefore not transmit or affect the output in any way.