Rotator System

If the remote control for your Channel Master Antenna Rotator (CM-9521 or CM-9537) is not controlling the rotator control unit, first check the remote batteries and then confirm that the control unit is configured to the HH1 setting.

1. Check the remote control batteries.
Replace the batteries with fresh batteries and test the remote again.

2. Check whether the control unit is set to HH1.

1. Disconnect power from the CM-9521 or CM-9537 control unit for at least 10 seconds.
2. Reconnect power.
3. Watch the display as the control unit starts. It should briefly display H60, followed by HH1, and then 000 or another three digit number.
4. The control unit will then turn off.

The included remote control requires the control unit to be set to HH1. If the display shows HH2, the included remote will not control the unit.

3. If necessary, change the control unit to HH1.

1. Disconnect power from the rear of the control unit for at least 10 seconds.
2. Press and hold both the Up (/) button and the Sync button on the front of the control unit.
3. While continuing to hold both buttons, reconnect power to the control unit.
4. Release the buttons.

4. Confirm that the control unit is now set to HH1.

1. Disconnect power from the control unit again for at least 10 seconds.
2. Reconnect power.
3. Watch the display during startup.
4. It should display H60, followed by HH1, and then 000 or another three digit number.

Once HH1 has been confirmed, test the included rotator remote again.

r use in the United States and Canada, the Channel Master CM-9521 and CM-9537 Antenna Rotator control units should be set to H60, which corresponds to a 60 Hz AC power frequency.

To confirm that the control unit is set to H60:

1. Disconnect power from the rotator control unit for approximately 10 seconds.
2. Reconnect power to the control unit.
3. Watch the display during startup.
4. The display should show H60, followed by HH1, and then a three digit number such as 000.
5. The control unit will then turn off.

If the display begins with H50 instead of H60, the control unit should be changed to H60 for use in the United States or Canada.

To change the control unit from H50 to H60:

1. Disconnect power from the control unit for at least 10 seconds.
2. Press and hold both the Up (/) and Down (V) buttons on the front of the control unit.
3. While continuing to hold both buttons, reconnect power to the control unit.
4. Continue holding the buttons for approximately 2 seconds, then release them.
5. Disconnect power from the control unit again for at least 10 seconds.
6. Reconnect power and watch the display.
7. Confirm that the startup sequence now displays H60, followed by HH1, and then a three digit number.

Important: The CM-9521 and CM-9537 series rotators are designed for approximately 117 VAC, 60 Hz power and are not supported for use in countries with a different voltage or power frequency standard.

The Channel Master Heavy Duty Antenna Rotator (CM-9521HD) was designed for antennas weighing approximately 15 pounds or less, installed on an upper mast no longer than 3 feet. Antenna weight is only one consideration. Mast length and the antenna's wind load projected area are also important when determining whether an antenna is appropriate for the rotator.

Antenna weight and upper mast length

The CM-9521HD does not have a separately published maximum antenna weight specification. The rotator was designed around an antenna weighing approximately 15 pounds with a 3-foot upper mast.

Using a heavier antenna or an upper mast longer than 3 feet can place additional stress on the rotator and may shorten the life of the motor, thrust bearing assembly, and upper mount components.

Upper mast diameter

The upper mast clamps accommodate mast diameters from approximately 1 inch to 1-7/8 inches.

If the upper mast passes through a support sleeve or bearing on a tower, a 1-1/4 inch diameter upper mast should be used so the mast remains properly centered as it rotates. Using a larger or smaller diameter mast in this type of installation can cause the mast to rotate off center and potentially bind or seize.

If the upper mast does not pass through a tower sleeve or bearing, the exact mast diameter is less critical as long as it is within the supported clamp range.

Lower mast diameter

The lower mast clamps accommodate mast diameters from approximately 1 inch to 1-7/8 inches, with some installations accommodating up to approximately 2 inches.

Antenna wind load

The upper mast should not exceed 3 feet in length. A longer mast creates additional leverage during high winds and can increase stress on the rotator's thrust bearing assembly and upper mount components.

The antenna's wind load projected area should not exceed 3 square feet.

All Channel Master outdoor TV antennas have a wind load projected area of less than 3 square feet and can be used with the CM-9521HD when installed within the other mounting requirements.

For reference, the Channel Master EXTREMEtenna 80 (CM-4228HD) has a wind load projected area of approximately 2.14 square feet. Channel Master's larger long-range log periodic and Yagi antennas have projected wind load areas of less than 2 square feet.

For the best reliability, keep the antenna at approximately 15 pounds or less, the upper mast at 3 feet or less, and the antenna's projected wind load area below 3 square feet.

If the control box for your Channel Master CM-9521 or CM-9537 Antenna Rotator does not light up or respond, first disconnect the power cord for at least 10 seconds, then reconnect it.

When power is restored, the control unit should briefly display its startup information. If the control box powers on, use the following procedure to confirm that the rotator system is connected and synchronized correctly.

Check the rotator connections and operation:

1. Disconnect power from the control unit.
2. Confirm that the control unit is properly connected to the rotator. Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are identified on both the rotator connector board and the back of the control unit. Make sure the corresponding terminals are connected correctly.
3. Reconnect power to the control unit.
4. Press the Sync button on the control unit and allow the synchronization cycle to complete. The rotator should move or you may hear the motor operating for approximately one minute.
5. After synchronization is complete, enter 000 using the remote control. This establishes the North reference position.
6. Disconnect power from the control unit for approximately 10 seconds.
7. Reconnect power. The display should briefly show H60, followed by HH1, and then 000. The control unit will then turn off.

When installing the rotator:

The arrow on the upper portion of the rotator should face North, and the lower mast stop on the rear of the rotator base should point South. The rotator base should be positioned on the North side of the lower mast.

After the rotator is correctly positioned, mount the antenna to the upper mast and point the antenna North.

Important: The upper mast should be no longer than 3 feet. A shorter upper mast is recommended when possible to reduce leverage and stress on the rotator assembly.