PowerAIM Program Update  
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NEW Jan 22, 2010 -- Version: AIM_688B.

This version can also be used with the AIM4170.

What's New

Program download: AIM_688B.zip

All the files should be placed together in a new folder. When the program is unzipped, it will automatically create a new sub-folder called "Applications-Help".

After downloading the new program, recalibrate your PowerAIM.
Click: Calibrate -- > Analyzer.

If your have been using a comm port other than port 1, run Setup -> Enter Comm Port to reinitiallize the comm port number. The default in the *.ini file is comm 1 now.

Oct 1, '08 -- Version: PA_670A.

This version can also be used with the AIM4170.

New features in version PA_670:

  • Polar plots of SWR, Z and S11 can be displayed.
  • Band skipping greatly speeds up analysis of multiband antennas.
  • Audible output for SWR reading. Listen to the AIM at a remote location.
  • SWR can be plotted on log scales. Greater dynamic range for SWR display.
  • Plot Point Data on Smith chart while tuning or adjusting freq.
  • Option to start graph at freq=0.
  • Click on .scn file to launch program and display the .scn file.
  • Show date and time on Smith chart.
  • Option to load and overlay graphs. (Start/End freqs must be the same.)
  • Custom cal start freq can be as low as 100KHz.
  • Graph legend is in a separate window that can be repositioned.
  • Plot Q vs. Frequency.
  • Display Q in data window on right side.
  • Menu item (under 'Help') to check for program update.

  • The PowerAIM Supplement and the AIM manual have been updated.

Program download: PA_670A.zip

All the files should be placed together in a new folder. When the program is unzipped, it will automatically create a new sub-folder called "Applications-Help".

After downloading the new program, recalibrate your PowerAIM.
Click: Calibrate -- > Analyzer.

If your have been using a comm port other than port 1, run Setup -> Find Comm Port to reinitiallize the comm port number. The default in the *.ini file is comm 1 now.

Apr 11, '08 -- Version: PA_655A.

This version can also be used with the AIM4170.

New features in version 655A:

  • A line extension function can be used to compensate for adapters and jumper cables.
  • A legend showing the graph styles can be displayed to include in documentation.
  • Smith Chart is updated dynamically while in recycle mode.
  • The PowerAIM Supplement to the AIM manual has been updated.

Program download: PA_655A.zip

All the files should be placed together in a new folder. When the program is unzipped, it will automatically create a new sub-folder called "Applications-Help".

After downloading the new program, recalibrate your PowerAIM.
Click: Calibrate -- > Analyzer.

If your have been using a comm port other than port 1, run Setup -> Find Comm Port to reinitiallize the comm port number. The default in the *.ini file is comm 1 now.

==== DEMO PROGRAM ====

The latest version of the program shown above will run in the demo mode if the PowerAIM hardware is not present. You can load the sample scan files and display the data with the cursor. For the program to run in the PowerAIM demo mode, be sure there is a file called "pa_120.txt" in the same folder with the exe file.
Programs for the AIM4170 will also run on the PowerAIM. To be notified automatically when the PowerAIM program is updated, subscribe here.

The FORUM can be used to keep up with latest application news and to ask questions of other users.

==== USB/RS232 CONVERTERS ====

Since many new computers don't have an RS232 port, you can operate the AIM4170 with a USB/RS232 converter which simulates a comm port. Some converters come with software that defaults to a particular comm port, for example, COMM 5. In that case, you can specify the comm port using the AIM Setup menu tab. Enter the appropriate number and this will be saved in the .ini file.

A new feature has been added to version 564 to help in setting up the USB adapter. Click Setup -> Find Comm Port and the program will scan all the ports to find where the USB adapter has been assigned.

There are a large number of USB/RS232 converters available. One that has been found to be very good is by Keyspan. Their on-line price is relatively high but you can find it on Ebay for much less.

Another converter that has also been used successfully is by Byterunner. Their on-line price is comparable to the prices found on Ebay. This optional converter is also available from Array Solutions at the time you order the AIM4170.

The Byterunner adapter works with many computers. However, one AIM4170 user has found that it didn't work with his computer but this one does: HVWTech

For more information on the communications link, refer to the FAQ Page.