M-130A 3.5–54 MHz Auto-Tuning Mobile HF Antenna for Yaesu ATAS Radios
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Auto-tuning mobile HF antenna for Yaesu ATAS-compatible radios
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Single-coax control for cleaner mobile radio installation
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Covers 3.5–54 MHz with manufacturer-specified V/U support
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Flexible two-section whip design for easier transport
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Designed for vehicle, balcony, and field-style mounting setups
Auto-Tuning Mobile HF Antenna for Yaesu ATAS Radios
The M-130A is an auto-tuning mobile HF antenna designed for operators using Yaesu radios with ATAS antenna-control support. It brings the convenience of motorized tuning to mobile and temporary operating setups, helping you move between bands without manually adjusting a long whip or external loading coil every time.
For compatible Yaesu radios, the antenna is controlled through the radio’s ATAS setting and TUNE operation. This makes the M-130A a practical choice for users who want a cleaner mobile HF installation, fast band changes, and a compact antenna system that can also be removed and stored when not in use.
Single-Coax Control for Cleaner Mobile Installation
In a compatible Yaesu ATAS setup, the M-130A uses the radio and coax feedline path for antenna control, reducing the need for separate power and control wiring between the transceiver and the antenna. This helps keep the mobile installation cleaner and easier to manage, especially in compact vehicles or temporary operating setups.
Once the radio menu is configured for ATAS operation, the radio can command the antenna to move up or down during tuning and stop when a suitable SWR point is reached. Proper mounting and grounding are still essential, but the control workflow is much simpler than a manually adjusted mobile HF antenna.
3.5–54 MHz Tuning Range with Manufacturer-Specified V/U Support
The M-130A covers a wide 3.5–54 MHz tuning range for HF and 50 MHz operation, making it suitable for operators who need a compact mobile antenna system across multiple amateur bands. Manufacturer information also specifies V/U support, with the antenna able to retract for 144/430 MHz operation or storage depending on the operating setup.
As with all shortened mobile HF antennas, real-world performance depends on installation quality, grounding, mounting position, vehicle body coupling, and the surrounding environment. The M-130A is designed to make mobile HF operation more convenient, not to replace a full-size base-station antenna.
Flexible Whip and Telescopic Rod Options
The updated M-130A whip uses two flexible steel sections, each 55 cm (21.7 in) long, for a total whip length of about 1.1 m (3.61 ft). For mobile driving, the flexible steel whip sections are the preferred setup. For 3.5 MHz or parked low-band operation, the included telescopic rod antenna can be used as the manufacturer-specified low-band option.
With the steel whip installed, the antenna length is approximately 175–195 cm (68.9–76.8 in), depending on the tuning position. When retracted and disassembled, the antenna is easier to place in a vehicle trunk or storage bag, making it more practical for mobile operators who do not want to leave a long antenna exposed all the time.
Grounding and Mounting Matter
The M-130A is a shortened 1/4-wave mobile antenna, so installation quality matters. For best results, use a strong mount, a reliable coax connection, and a short, wide grounding path to a suitable metal surface. Poor grounding or an unstable mount may lead to difficult tuning, higher SWR, or inconsistent performance.
This antenna can be used for vehicle and temporary setups, but the installation should always be treated as part of the antenna system. A clean ground connection, suitable mounting height, and enough surrounding metal area can make a major difference in tuning behavior and on-air results.
Specifications
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Item
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Specification
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Model
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M-130A
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Antenna Type
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Shortened 1/4-wave auto-tuning mobile HF antenna
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Frequency Range
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3.5–54 MHz; manufacturer-specified V/U support
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Compatible Radio Control
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Yaesu radios with ATAS menu / antenna-control support
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Impedance
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50 Ω
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SWR
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≤ 1.5:1 after proper tuning and installation
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Power Handling
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PEP 250 W; FT8 60 W; WSPR 50 W
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Antenna Length
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Approx. 175–195 cm (68.9–76.8 in) with steel whip installed
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Main Body Length
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Approx. 55–75 cm (21.7–29.5 in)
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Whip Length
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55 cm × 2 sections (21.7 in × 2 sections)
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Weight
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Approx. 1.2 kg (2.65 lb)
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Antenna Connector
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PL-259
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What’s in the Box
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1 × M-130A antenna base / main body
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2 × flexible steel whip sections
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1 × telescopic rod antenna
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1 × 1.3 m (4.27 ft) copper braid grounding strap
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10 × small set screws
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1 × small hex key
12 Months
