NC1
Member
I decided it is time to consider buying an antenna analyzer, but being new to this aspect I'm not sure which ones are good and which to avoid.
Here is the breakdown of my basic requirements (of course I am a little flexible):
It should be portable and battery powered.
Frequency range (approx.) 130-180 and 400-520.
I would prefer a graph reading rather than just numerical.
Budget is around $175, but not completely firm should I have to spend a little more to get what I really require.
This will be used for making my own antennas and for testing installations. I don't need a lot of bells and whistles just yet as far as I know.
Looking on eBay, I found the KEV520A but it's just a bit over the limit of an already stretched budget. It would be a little while until I could see my way clear to make that purchase. I am kind of leaning toward that should it be my best option even if I have to wait a little longer.
My second option is purchasing one used, and do not know if that is a good idea or not because you don't really know if it was abused, or innocently mishandled, enough to throw off the calibration.
I have already been using the SWR meter method, but want to graduate up to a bigger and better toy.
Maybe there is something out there that does the same thing for about 1/3 the price?
Any and all input from people who own or have used these instruments would be GREATLY appreciated.
Here is the breakdown of my basic requirements (of course I am a little flexible):
It should be portable and battery powered.
Frequency range (approx.) 130-180 and 400-520.
I would prefer a graph reading rather than just numerical.
Budget is around $175, but not completely firm should I have to spend a little more to get what I really require.
This will be used for making my own antennas and for testing installations. I don't need a lot of bells and whistles just yet as far as I know.
Looking on eBay, I found the KEV520A but it's just a bit over the limit of an already stretched budget. It would be a little while until I could see my way clear to make that purchase. I am kind of leaning toward that should it be my best option even if I have to wait a little longer.
My second option is purchasing one used, and do not know if that is a good idea or not because you don't really know if it was abused, or innocently mishandled, enough to throw off the calibration.
I have already been using the SWR meter method, but want to graduate up to a bigger and better toy.
Maybe there is something out there that does the same thing for about 1/3 the price?
Any and all input from people who own or have used these instruments would be GREATLY appreciated.