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Testing SWR for GMRS

DOAUSMC0331

Member
Joined
Oct 27, 2024
Messages
27
Dumb question but measure twice cut once right.
So do you test the swr level the same as 11m? As in test at lowest frequency, then test at highest frequency then in the middle? I know you can't use a cb swr meter so I ordered the correct meter to use. I just want to make sure there isn't a hidden step along the way.
Thanks
Jake
 

mmckenna

I ♥ Ø
Joined
Jul 27, 2005
Messages
25,618
Location
United States
Do you plan on ever using a repeater?

If so, you need to consider that the GMRS repeater inputs are at 467MHz.

You'll find that most -appropriate- UHF antennas will have no issue covering 462/467MHz without a lot of fiddling.

I'd check SWR at 467.700 on the high end, and 462.550 on the low end. Don't get hung up trying to get a "perfect" 1.00:1 SWR.
 

KF0NYL

Member
Joined
Oct 20, 2023
Messages
89
I always check at 467 MHz and 462 MHz. The SWR will normally be lower at 462MHz compared to 467 MHz. You will be fine as long s the SWR is under 2.0 on both.

I trimmed my Tram 1174 antenna and the SWR is 1.4 at 467.600 and 1.2 at 462.600. Can't get much better than that. I also have a Comet 2x4SR multi band antenna and the SWR at 467 MHz is 1.8 and the SWR on 462 is around 1.4. The SWR is also good on MURS, 2m, and 70cm.
 
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