Overview
Ameritron is an American manufacturer of amateur radio RF power amplifiers, antenna tuners, wattmeters, and related station accessories. The company became well known among amateur radio operators for producing high-power HF linear amplifiers designed for both home station and contest operation.
Ameritron products were marketed toward amateur radio operators seeking affordable high-power equipment capable of continuous-duty operation across multiple HF amateur bands. The brand later became part of MFJ Enterprises, Inc., which expanded the product line and distribution network.
Ameritron amplifiers are commonly found in amateur radio stations used for DXing, contesting, and long-distance HF communications.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Ameritron |
| Industry | Amateur Radio Electronics |
| Parent Company | MFJ Enterprises, Inc. |
| Product Types | HF linear amplifiers, antenna tuners, wattmeters |
| Primary Markets | Amateur Radio |
| Headquarters | Starkville, Mississippi, USA |
| Notable Products | AL-811, AL-80B, AL-572, ALS-600, ATR-30 |
Description
Ameritron products are typically housed in metal rack-style or desktop enclosures with large analog meters, heavy-duty transformers, and front-panel tuning controls. Most tube amplifiers use grounded-grid designs employing common transmitting tubes such as the 811A, 572B, or 3-500Z.
The product line has included both vacuum tube and solid-state amplifiers, along with matching antenna tuners and RF measurement equipment. Ameritron equipment has been widely used in amateur radio contest stations due to its relatively high output power and comparatively moderate cost.
History
Historical Timeline
- 1980s – Ameritron brand introduced RF power amplifiers for amateur radio operators.
- 1990s – Product line expanded to include tuners and station accessories.
- 1990s – Ameritron became associated with MFJ Enterprises.
- 2000s – Expanded solid-state amplifier offerings alongside tube amplifier models.
- 2010s – Continued production of HF amplifiers and accessories for amateur radio operators.
- 2024 – MFJ Enterprises announced cessation of manufacturing operations affecting associated brands including Ameritron.
Historical Addresses
Ameritron / MFJ Enterprises, Inc.
300 Industrial Park Road
Starkville, Mississippi 39759 USA