Yaesu ATAS-120A Review: Is it Worth the Hype?
The world of amateur radio is full of equipment options, each promising to improve your communication experience. For those who operate on the go, finding the right antenna can be a bit challenging. One antenna that has been gaining attention is the Yaesu ATAS-120A. Designed specifically to complement Yaesu transceivers, this mobile and portable antenna promises automatic tuning and broad frequency coverage. It’s ideal for ham radio operators who want convenience and reliability in their setups, whether they are on the road or using a portable station.
But is the ATAS-120A worth the hype it’s receiving? With so many antenna options available, it’s important to evaluate how this model performs, its installation process, and whether it truly offers value for money. In this detailed review, we will explore the features, performance, ease of use, and potential downsides of the ATAS-120A to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your amateur radio needs.
Overview of the Yaesu ATAS-120A
The Yaesu ATAS-120A (Automatic Tuning Antenna System) is a versatile, multi-band mobile antenna that automatically adjusts to the optimal operating frequency for Yaesu transceivers. This system is designed to make operation easier by allowing you to focus on your communication rather than manually adjusting antenna settings. Let’s delve into the specifics of this product.
How the ATAS-120A Works
The ATAS-120A is a unique mobile antenna because it’s specifically built to interact seamlessly with Yaesu radios that have the built-in ATAS function. This includes popular transceivers like the FT-857D and FT-897D. When the operator switches bands or frequencies, the antenna uses a motorized mechanism to extend or retract automatically, adjusting its length to achieve the best resonance for that particular band. This takes the guesswork out of manually tuning your antenna.
Frequency Coverage
The ATAS-120A supports a wide range of frequency bands, covering HF (7/14/21/28 MHz), VHF (50 MHz), and UHF (144/430 MHz). This means that users can communicate on multiple bands with the same antenna, which is particularly useful for mobile operators who might switch between bands frequently while traveling. The antenna’s wideband capabilities make it suitable for general mobile use and even emergency communications.
Design and Build Quality
One of the most important aspects of any antenna is its build quality. The ATAS-120A is designed with portability in mind. It has a telescoping design that makes it compact when retracted, which is ideal for mobile setups on vehicles. The exterior is made from sturdy materials to withstand the elements, though some users have mentioned that, over time, exposure to the elements can lead to corrosion or wear on certain components. Its compact size when retracted makes it convenient to install on vehicles or other limited spaces.
Specifications and Key Features
The ATAS-120A is about 1.4 meters long when fully extended and can shrink to a little over 1 meter when retracted. It weighs approximately 1 kg, making it easy to handle and install. Key features include:
- Automatic tuning with compatible Yaesu transceivers.
- Frequency coverage from HF to UHF.
- Compact, retractable design.
- Designed for mobile and portable use.
Read More: Yaesu FT-990 Review: Is it Worth the Hype?
Performance Review
When reviewing an antenna like the ATAS-120A, performance is key. Let’s break down how this antenna performs across various environments and bands, as well as its tuning speed and signal quality.
Tuning and Band Coverage
One of the most praised features of the ATAS-120A is its seamless automatic tuning when paired with Yaesu radios. This feature works well for both novice and experienced operators, as the antenna can adjust itself without requiring manual intervention. For mobile users, this is especially beneficial. Imagine driving down the road and switching bands to respond to different communication needs—there’s no need to stop and manually adjust your antenna.
In terms of band performance, the ATAS-120A excels on the HF bands, providing solid performance on 40m, 20m, 15m, and 10m. It is particularly efficient on 20m and 10m, where it tends to perform the best. However, some users report that the performance on 40m is more modest, particularly when operating in environments with interference.
For VHF and UHF bands, the antenna provides clear reception and adequate signal strength. On 6m, performance is quite good, with operators reporting decent propagation and contacts even at longer distances. On 2m and 70cm, the ATAS-120A offers a reliable performance that makes it great for local repeater use or even some simplex communication.
Mobile Setup Performance
The ATAS-120A is most commonly used in mobile environments, where it truly shines. Mounted on a vehicle, this antenna provides consistent performance across a wide range of frequencies. Users have noted that even while in motion, the antenna manages to maintain clear reception and transmission, particularly on the HF bands. However, signal quality may dip slightly when operating in urban areas with lots of interference.
The motorized tuning mechanism is responsive, taking only a few seconds to adjust itself as you change frequencies. This is a major advantage for those who frequently switch between bands or travel long distances.
Portable Setup Performance
While the ATAS-120A is primarily marketed as a mobile antenna, it can also be used in fixed or portable setups. When installed on a rooftop or balcony, it offers reliable performance, though users may need to adjust their mounting to optimize for certain bands. In portable scenarios, it offers flexibility, making it suitable for field days or emergency setups.
Overall, the ATAS-120A offers good all-around performance, especially for mobile operators who need a multi-band antenna that can switch between frequencies quickly.
Read More: Yaesu FT-900 Review: Is it Worth the Hype?
Ease of Installation and Use
One of the key selling points of the ATAS-120A is its simplicity of use. Unlike many other antennas that require a significant amount of manual tuning, the ATAS-120A pairs with Yaesu radios to handle the bulk of the work. This section discusses how easy it is to install and use the antenna in various setups.
Installation with Yaesu Transceivers
For Yaesu radio users, installation of the ATAS-120A is straightforward. The antenna connects directly to the radio via a coaxial cable, and since the antenna is designed to work automatically with radios like the FT-857D, there’s minimal configuration needed. The radio sends tuning commands directly to the antenna, which responds by adjusting its length automatically.
The antenna is typically mounted on a mobile mount or a fixed mount, depending on the setup. Mobile mounts designed for vehicles are the most common option, and these mounts often come with standard coaxial connectors. Users report that installation can be completed in under an hour, even for those with limited experience.
Antenna Mounting Options
While the antenna can be installed on various mobile mounts, it is critical to use a good grounding system. Many users who experience performance issues find that grounding is often the culprit. Poor grounding can result in SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) problems, which negatively affect transmission and reception. Installing a ground plane or improving the vehicle’s grounding can make a significant difference in performance.
For those installing the antenna in a fixed setup, a sturdy mount such as a rooftop or balcony setup is recommended. Ensure that the antenna is placed high enough to avoid obstructions and interference from nearby buildings or objects.
User Experience
Once installed, the ATAS-120A is exceptionally easy to use, especially for Yaesu transceiver owners. Switching bands is effortless—simply select the desired band on your transceiver, and the antenna will automatically adjust itself to optimize performance. This simplicity makes it an ideal option for operators who want a “set it and forget it” experience without needing to manually tune their antenna each time they switch frequencies.
However, non-Yaesu radio users will not be able to take full advantage of the automatic tuning feature. If you own a non-compatible radio, you would need to manually adjust the antenna, which defeats much of its purpose.
Read More: Yaesu FT-950 Review: Is it Worth the Hype?
Durability and Longevity
One of the concerns many operators have when purchasing antennas is durability. Since the ATAS-120A is primarily used in mobile environments, it is exposed to the elements—wind, rain, and snow—on a regular basis.
Material Quality
The antenna is built from durable materials that are designed to withstand typical outdoor conditions. However, some users have reported that over time, exposure to the elements can lead to wear and tear, particularly in the motorized components. Ensuring proper maintenance and cleaning can extend the lifespan of the antenna.
Weather Resistance
While the antenna is generally robust, it is not entirely immune to weather-related issues. Users in particularly harsh climates have noted that prolonged exposure to rain and snow can cause minor corrosion on the connectors. To mitigate this, it’s recommended to periodically check and maintain your antenna, ensuring all components are tightly secured and clean.
Read More: Yaesu FT-8900R Review: Is it Worth the Hype?
Final Verdict
So, is the Yaesu ATAS-120A worth the hype? In many ways, yes—especially if you’re a Yaesu transceiver owner who prioritizes ease of use and flexibility in mobile setups. Its automatic tuning system is a significant time-saver, and its performance across various bands, especially in mobile environments, makes it a strong contender for those seeking an all-in-one antenna solution.
This antenna will likely exceed expectations for mobile operators and hams looking for simplicity and automatic tuning. But if you prefer manual tuning or need a highly durable antenna for extreme conditions, it might be worth considering other options.
Read More: Yaesu FT-857D Review: Is it Worth the Hype?
Conclusion
The Yaesu ATAS-120A is a great option for mobile ham radio enthusiasts who prioritize convenience and ease of use. Its automatic tuning feature, combined with broad frequency coverage, makes it a highly versatile choice for operators who use compatible Yaesu transceivers. However, it may not be the best choice for those in need of manual control or better performance on certain bands like 40m. Its durability is adequate for most conditions but may require some maintenance in harsher climates.
Ultimately, the ATAS-120A stands out for its user-friendly operation and solid mobile performance. Suppose you’re a Yaesu user looking for a multi-band antenna that can handle a wide range of frequencies with minimal hassle. In that case, this antenna will likely meet your expectations and prove to be a valuable addition to your setup.
