pastorwug

I just bought a Astatic PDC2 SWR & Power meter and was wondering what the little antennae does that comes with it, is it vitally necessary, I saw it in the package but when I opened the package it disappeared into the abyss I think, anyways - I can't find it, anyone know?

donnie

If there is a small threaded port on the meter , the antenna you asked about should screw into it.
The purpose of the antenna is to check the field strenth of the radio after install.
To do this, screw the antenna into the meter and while you walk around the vehicle,
have someone key the mic. Watch the meter and it will give you where the strongest signal is.
Hope this helps.

AK4Dave

You nailed it donnie. I googled it and it is for field strength testing. Haven't seen one in a long time. Knowing what direction your signal is getting out the best in your mobile comes in REALLY handy at times.

rpaulson

that thing is GREAT for trying to track down RFI as well.

donnie

Thanks Dave. My memory isnt as bad as I thought it was.
I havent seen or used one in a long time either.

tslewisz

My SWR meter came w/ one as well, and I always use it. However, I witnessed a CB install tech using the same meter without the antenna installed.

jfleur91

accidentally posted this on wrong thread...... my bad guys!! hahaha

AK4Dave

Usually when you are standing right next to a vehicle, and provided you have a strong enough signal, the field strength meter will work without the little antenna. Now if you walk away from the rig, then, using only 4 watts, without the antenna you would probably loose the signal fairly fast.