SWR all over the map.
#1
JK Jedi
Thread Starter
SWR all over the map.
What would cause the readings to be very low say 1.1 on both 1 and 40 one minute and check again a minute later and both will be over 3. I won't change a thing and retest and back down low retest again and back up high. thanks
#5
JK Jedi Master
Possibly a bad connection or antenna. Have someone watch the meter while you tweak and twist cable at each connector. Be sure to do this at the cable you use to connect meter into circuit Also move antenna around, checking for same thing. But be aware that SWR will move as you touch antenna, so try tapping on it or flipping it a little to see if it is your touches or perhaps damage (caused by hitting too many trees in my case, LOL).
#6
JK Jedi
Thread Starter
ok this morning I can not get it to change. 1.1 on 1 and 1.5 on 40. it is a brand new 4' firestik II on a TF mount. I had been running a 3' firefly but was not really happy with the reception. I have to wait until my wife gets home from work to jiggle the connection at the tailgate. I do not have the coax coiled tight I have the extra length in a large loop.
#7
JK Jedi Master
Because of the way the SO-239/PL-259 connectors are designed with that little sawtooth section to keep them from rotating, it's possible to get it where you didn't have it seated all the way. Perhaps removing and reinstalling the meter changed things the next day? Just a thought.
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#8
JK Jedi
Thread Starter
Because of the way the SO-239/PL-259 connectors are designed with that little sawtooth section to keep them from rotating, it's possible to get it where you didn't have it seated all the way. Perhaps removing and reinstalling the meter changed things the next day? Just a thought.
#9
JK Jedi Master
Another place to check is where the cable bends at the tailgate hinge. I've found two different friend's had the bend too tight. It can damage the cable internally--minimum bend radius for coaxial RF cable is about 8 times its diameter.
#10
JK Jedi
Thread Starter
Last edited by jadmt; 01-02-2015 at 12:10 PM.