microHAM ARCO Junior Rotator Controller

Technical description

The ARCO Junio from microHAM is a universal control unit for almost all types of antenna rotatators. It can be operated manually via buttons on the front or conveniently via computer, tablet or smartphone. A USB-B and a traditional serial interface (RS-232) are available, but there is also a network connection (Ethernet, 100-BaseTX) to enable integration into the existing station.

A separate, external 48-volt power supply is required to supply the motor driver of the ARCO Jr. with direct current; it is best to order this directly here. The controller logic itself requires a power supply with an external 13.5 V DC power supply, see 'Accessories'.

The optional switching power supplies provide reliable power for nearly all rotators on the market. The 90W model (48VDC/1.87A) is suitable for most rotators, such as Yaesu and Prosistel 61D, while the 220W version (48VDC/4.6A) is perfect for high-power models like Prosistel 71D, DXE RT4500, and M2 Orion.

All rotor settings, including compensation for power losses in the motor cables, are menu-driven via VNC without having to open the housing and change the internal cabling.

The built-in VNC server provides an exact copy of the regular ARCO screen on your computer monitor, tablet or smartphone and allows full control of the rotator and the antenna switches controlled by the ARXC relay modules directly from the computer or mobile device, whether you are connected to ARCO Jr. locally or via the internet.

The firmware offers numerous additional protective functions and self-explanatory error messages make it easier to detect and rectify problems if necessary. 

Application description

The ARCO Junior is a modern rotator controller that has been developed for reliable operation with practically any antenna rotator. The ARCO Junior is a space-saving version of the regular ARCO. It offers the same functions in a smaller housing (without internal power supply), a touch screen is not used in the 'Junior'. However, the built-in VNC server allows the familiar ARCO user interface to be displayed on a connected computer, smartphone or tablet.

Although designed for independent operation, the 'Junior' benefits from deep integration with the ARCO. When both devices are connected, the regular ARCO provides the same great touchscreen user interface for all connected ARCO Juniors, and the Juniors in turn extend ARCO control to multiple rotators.

With front panel control only, the azimuth is controlled with the rotary knob or buttons. The compass direction is shown on the easy-to-read LC display. In addition to manual control, ARCO Jr. offers extensive connection options for the computer via a standard RS-232 port, a serial USB port (no driver installation required under Windows 10, 11, macOS and Linux) and an Ethernet port for remote control via a local network or the Internet.

Speaking of remote control - the ARCO automatically parks the antenna at the end of operation and disconnects all external lines as far as possible. This minimizes the risks of static discharge and local thunderstorms.