While using my cheap swr meter for the first time I've run into a problem. First of all, I have all the cables in the right places. I switch the meter to FWD and hold down the transmit button, but it won't allow me to turn the needle to the set line. The needle just stays at 1. So, just to try it I moved the switch to the REF position, hold down the transmit button, and boom, it lets me move the needle to the set line. I then move the switch back to FWD and the needle jumps back to 1.2 . I continue to tune in this manner and am able to get 1.2 on ch 1 & 40 and 1.1 on ch 20. Is it possible that the switch is backwards on my meter?

 

If i remember right you are using it correctly. The set should only be allowed to move in reference when transmitting. You then switch it to forward and transmit, then it will display your SWR, which sounds like its 1.2:1 and 1.1:1. Sounds good to me..

 

The directions say that I should start in FWD mode and be able to move the needle to set while in the FWD mode, not REF. I'm doing everything the way the directions tell you to do it, except for the fact that I have to use FWD mode where it says to use REF mode, and REF mode where it says to use FWD mode.

 

Yes, this is possible. It is also possible that different manufacturers may use different verbiage on their stuff. You could get another meter and double check it, but if you are at 1.2/1.1, you're good!!(I'm jealous!!)

 

It sounds like that underpaid Chinese laborer had a few too many the night before he made your SWR meter. Yes, it does sound as if the switch is wired backward. If it's new, take it back where you bought it and get one that's correctly wired. If it's not new, open it up and you can probably swap the wires on the switch yourself (assuming you know how to solder).

 

IF your showing a 1.2, Id say leave it as is and get together with someone else that has one and double check it.
I did that when I put mine in and both meters showed the same.

 

Well, I checked it with another meter, and everything looks good. 1.2:1 on ch1&40 and 1.1:1 on ch20. Looks like they did just solder the wires in the wrong place.