History of Vectronics

Vectronics is a brand specializing in amateur radio equipment, including antenna tuners, RF analyzers, switches, and accessories for HF, VHF, and UHF frequencies. It operates as a division of MFJ Enterprises, a prominent U.S.-based manufacturer in the ham radio industry. The company’s history is closely intertwined with MFJ’s growth, focusing on affordable, high-performance products for radio enthusiasts.

Founding and Early Years

• 1972: MFJ Enterprises Founded: MFJ Enterprises was established in Starkville, Mississippi, by Martin F. Jue (K5FLU), an electrical engineering professor at Mississippi State University. Operations began modestly in a small rented hotel room in downtown Starkville, initially producing simple antenna tuners and accessories to meet the needs of amateur radio operators.
• 1980s–1990s: Expansion and Vectronics Launch: As MFJ grew, it acquired and developed several brands to diversify its portfolio. Vectronics emerged during this period as a dedicated line for vector-based impedance measurement tools and antenna-related gear. By the late 1990s, Vectronics products like the SWR-584B HF/VHF analyzer (introduced around 1998) were in production, emphasizing precision RF testing equipment. The company moved to a larger facility at 300 Industrial Park Road in Starkville, where manufacturing, assembly, and R&D took place.

Growth and Product Focus (2000s–2010s)

• Vectronics became known for low-cost, reliable gear such as vertical antennas (40–10 meters), manual/automatic tuners, amplifiers, and SWR analyzers. These products catered to both hobbyists and professionals, with designs prioritizing ease of installation, high power handling for SSB/digital modes, and seamless backyard integration.
• Under MFJ’s umbrella, Vectronics shared resources with sister brands like Ameritron (amplifiers), Hy-Gain (antennas), Cushcraft, and Mirage. By the 2010s, the Starkville facility employed dozens and generated significant revenue (estimated at $8.6 million annually for Vectronics alone), contributing to MFJ’s status as a global leader in ham radio accessories.
• The brand maintained a strong presence in the amateur radio community, with products featured in catalogs, trade shows, and online forums. Historical records from radio enthusiast databases list over a dozen Vectronics models from this era, including tube-based and solid-state designs.

Recent Developments and Closure (2020s)

• 2024: Manufacturing Shutdown: In April 2024, MFJ announced the cessation of on-site production at its Starkville facility, effective May 17, 2024. This decision affected Vectronics and all MFJ subsidiaries, citing economic pressures and a shift toward imported components. While manufacturing ended, MFJ committed to continuing sales of existing inventory and imported products like antennas, power supplies, and switches through its website and distributors.
• As of September 2025, Vectronics products remain available via MFJ’s online store (mfjenterprises.com), but new U.S.-made items are no longer produced in Starkville. The closure marked the end of over 50 years of local manufacturing in Mississippi, impacting the regional economy and ham radio supply chains. Some reports suggest potential relocation of operations, but no confirmed new site has been announced.

Vectronics’ legacy endures through its contributions to accessible radio technology, with many vintage models still prized by collectors. For current product availability or archives, visit mfjenterprises.com/collections/vectronics.