[Boatanchors] [Glowbugs] WTB - Bird Wattmeter Model 43 HF 2-30 MHz Elements

[Jim Wiley]

As far as  know, the lowest power HF element  (rated for 2 to 30 MHz) 
that Bird offered was 50 watts, that being  the model 50H element.  
Perhaps there are lower rated HF elements out there, but 50 watts is the 
most "sensitive" HF element I have ever seen or heard about.

They did offer a 5-watt element that covered the 25 to 60 MHz range (the 
5A element), that was probably intended for CB radio testing. I have one 
of those. The 5A element could be used at  HF frequencies outside of its 
marked range, but only as a relative indicator, that is to say with 
reduced accuracy as far as power calibration was concerned.

They did offer lower power elements, down to at least 500 mW for some 
microwave bands.  I happen to have a 1-watt element for the 2.1 GHz range.

On the other hand, the highest power element for the model 43 wattmeter 
I have ever seen was marked for 10 kW, although I have heard tell of 
even higher power "slugs" for external line sections.   I know other 
manufacturers made elements that fit the Bird line section, for example 
those made by Sierra corporation,  which were supposedly 1 for 1 
interchangeable with the "Bird" elements, but I don't have any of those.

Best deal I ever got was at a hamfest many years ago where a gentleman 
had a 5-gallon bucket full of assorted elements priced at $5 apiece.  I 
bought about 20 that particular day, with "doubles" for several bands,  
so I could see forward and reflected power simultaneously (using 2 model 
43 meter "mainframes"). Unfortunately, the highest power HF elements he 
had were 1000-watt versions.  I bought a couple of those, but I am still 
looking for a 2500 H element.
. .

- Jim, KL7CC


On 6/2/2014 7:47 PM, 'Howie K3HW' via Glowbugs wrote:
> Gangue,
>
> I would like to purchase HF elements in excellent condition for my Bird Model 43 Wattmeter - specifically 50, 25, and/or 5 Watt elements.
>
> Thank you
>
> Howie K3HW
>