Confession of a novice

[TGuelker]

I’ve been reading about how important SWR is. Bought a NanoVNA-H and watched many YouTube videos on how to set it up check SWR.

My eyes glossed over a few times. I understand the basics, but there is a block stopping me from actually understanding this stuff.

Then I discover SWR doesn’t mean squat in rx.

 

[RU55]

SWR is significantly less important for receive only, but it can be used to tune an antenna for good receive performance. By measuring SWR, you are getting an indication of how well the antenna impedance is matched to the rest of the receiving system. It does make a difference, but it is not critical for receiving.

I use a NanoVNA when making antennas for transmitting and for just receiving. If I'm going to the trouble of making an antenna, even if it is for receive only, I like to optimize it as much as possible.

 

[mmckenna]

I’ve been reading about how important SWR is. Bought a NanoVNA-H and watched many YouTube videos on how to set it up check SWR.

Well, there's your problem right there.

Anyone can post to the YouTubes, even people that can't spell SWR.
Of all the nanoVNA "how to" videos on YouTube, about 10% of them are useful. The rest of them are drivel.
Of those 10%, you need to find one that explains how to use it in straightforward language. Not many can do that.

 

[prcguy]

Antennas are reciprocal, whatever they do on transmit and whatever inefficiencies they have due to high SWR also affects receive by the exact same amount.