The ATAS-120A is a very nice omnidirectional multiband antenna that is adjusted programatically using a controller such as a radio itself or a dedicated module. In case one owns a Yaesu radio or a radio that has ATAS support, then the adjusting signal goes directly through the antenna itself and no other connections or hardware is needed. The usefulness of the ATAS-120A is that it is portable and has the ability to adapt to match all the HAM bands.

The following tutorial describes some disassembly procedures as well as some modifications that can be made in order to make the antenna sturdier, resistant to corrosion or even waterproof. This page will not cover the complete disassembly of the ATAS-120A but will point out some of the weaker points as well as tips for the antenna.

One of the first things to do is to use engine grease to smear the antenna allover. This protects the metal parts from corrosion, breathes life into the mechanical parts of the antenna, prevents oxidation of inner components as well as reduces friction when the antenna moves.

Similarly, a good idea is to apply some engine grease to the metal antenna rod in order to protect it from corrosion.

When disassembling the bottom part of the antenna, three screws are used to hold the lower part of the antenna in place. It has been said that in time, these screws tend to get somewhat loose. For the solution, these screws have nylon washers that are not great quality and the washers can be replaced by some steel lock washers.

The image shows two screws and the removed nylon washers next to the new smaller lock washers that will be used to fasten the screws when the antenna is assembled back again.

The controller PCB to be found in the lower part of the antenna can be made waterproof by using some large gauge heat shrink tubing.

With the heat shrink tube fastened around the PCB, a cutter is used to cut out a connection to the on-board connector and attach the wires for the ATAS-120A antenna.

The connector just barely protrudes from the heat shrink tubing.