Yaesu FT-891 and FC-50 tuner

[foojin]

I am still a student, at least two months before I write the exam, but am keen about the Yaesu ft891.

Question: how suitable is the FC50 antenna tuner for marine applications? Would you recommend something else?

[BocaIII]

If you will use a back stay antenna, strong recommendation is SGC230 runner. Really depends on the antenna your planning to use.
Jack
W4GRJ

[BocaIII]

Correction - SGC230 Tuner

[foojin]

Thanks Jack,

I have heard good things about the SGC230, but was thinking that since the FC-50 was built for the 891 there might be an advantage to going with it. Though perhaps it would be a handicap if I decided to change radios.

Yes, it would be a back stay antenna. It is a design given to me by forum regular some time ago.

[BocaIII]

Since your antenna is the backstay you definitely want to use SGC230, the fc50 will not work with a backstay antenna.
The SG C230 actually has many advantages over the Yaesu tuner in this application.
Jack
W4GRJ

[foojin]

I had no idea. I have a lot to learn. Thanks.

Does that also apply to radios that come with internal tuners?

[BocaIII]

I was trying to keep this simple by suggesting you use sgc230 tuner with back stay antenna, this is the best solution. However, it is possible to use fc50 with backstay by using a balun to match antenna impedance. If you want to go to school on the subject go to
https://forums.qrz.com/index.php?for...ers-rotors.33/
Lots of help available.

One last thing, backstay antenna needs a good rf ground (counterpoise) regardless of tuner selected.

Jack
W4GRJ