Antenna Rotator System Does not Turn/Move (CM-9521A & CM-9521HD)

 

If this is a first time install, and the rotator will not turn, 90% of the time you'll find that it is not wired correctly. We recommend that you connect the controller and rotator on your workbench prior to installing the Rotator. See troubleshooting steps below. 

If this is not the first time installation, and your rotator system used to work correctly, then check the wires for damage.

If you are able to measure DC Voltage and resistance Ω, there are additional troubleshooting steps below.

Testing Voltage on CM9521 System
• Measure using your AC Voltage mode on your Voltmeter. 
o Readings could vary, but likely within ~15%
• Measure while all 3 wires are connected properly from controller to rotator.
o Connector #1 to connector #1, 2 to 2, 3 to 3
• Probes to pins 1 & 2
o ~26Vac while pressing the UP button on the remote.
o ~26Vac while pressing the Down button on the remote.
o ~ 0Vac while no buttons pressed on your remote. (If the controller is not counting/rotator not moving)
• Probes to pins 1 & 3
o ~17Vac while pressing the UP button on the remote.
o ~17Vac while pressing the Down button on the remote.
o ~ 0Vac while no buttons pressed on your remote. (If the controller is not counting/rotator not moving)
• Probes to pins 2 & 3
o ~17Vac while pressing the UP button on the remote.
o ~17Vac while pressing the Down button on the remote.
o ~ 0Vac while no buttons pressed on your remote. (If the controller is not counting/rotator not moving)

 

Symptoms if wires are connected incorrectly.
• #1 and #2 are reversed, 
o The rotator will run backwards 
• #2 & #3 are reversed, 
o The unit MAY run backwards when UP arrow is pressed but was slow, low voltage.
o The down button did not get a reaction except for buzzing motor. Low voltage.
• #1 and #3 are reversed, down arrow is pressed and it MAY run backwards slowly, low voltage. 
o The Up Arrow may make the motor buzz but did not provide enough voltage to move it.

 

Nominal resistance of total length of wire and motor winding's. Disconnect the rotator wires from the controller. This will vary with wire gauge and length of wire. 
1 & 2 Approximately 6Ω to 10Ω (With short wire, ~6.5Ω)
2 & 3 Approximately 3Ω to 6Ω (With short wire, ~3.5Ω)
1 & 3 Approximately 3Ω to 6Ω (With short wire, ~3.5Ω)

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