Antenna switches

[W4KRR]

I am thinking of an arrangement by which I use a VHF/UHF dual band antenna, and an antenna switch. The antenna switch is the type with the metal body; they come in 2 or 4 positions and are sold in most amateur radio stores.

The switch would be connected so as to share the dual band (base) antenna between a VHF/UHF dual band amateur transceiver and a Bearcat BC785D scanner. Of course, only one could be used at a time with this arrangement.

My question, is this arrangement safe for the scanner? When the switch is set for the transceiver, and it is transmitting, is it possible for RF to "leak" across the switch terminals and get into the scanner and do any damage?

 

[Al42]

You're asking whether electrical equipment ever malfunctions. Do you really need an answer?

 

[W4KRR]

You're asking whether electrical equipment ever malfunctions. Do you really need an answer?

So I guess it would be okay until the switch malfunctioned. :?

 

[LarrySC]

Dont waste your time on any switch with PL 259 connectors. Tried that 20 years ago. Look for a good grade AB or ABC TV/VCR type switch. Rated to +900 MHz and works fine with RG-6/59. Try www.matelectronics.com and part # DS AB or DS ABC. Also Centronics in MD may have same. Works for me-- even use one in my truck to switch between two scanner ants.

 

[n4voxgill]

Since you are going to hook a transmitter and a scanner to the same antenna you will need isolation.

MFJ has an antenna switch with N connectors for $34.95. It has good isolation from VHF and UHF transmissions. I would hook the dual band up to the scanner and if it picks up the agencies you want to hear, then order the antenna switch. Nothing beats trying it.

I have used ham antenna switches before with no problems. Of course I haven't been trying to pull in distant signals. I use dual band ham antennas on all my scanners. They work great.

 

[Al42]

I use dual band ham antennas on all my scanners. They work great.

I sure hope so. I'll be using my Larsen 2/70 on-glass on my Pro-95 next week, so I'll see how well it works on VHF-lo and 800.