[Elecraft] Antenna Analyzer

[Larry Phipps]

I have the MFJ, Autek Vector Analyst and AEA CIA. Without question the 
most accurate is the AEA, but I usually grab the Autek because of its 
size. It also resolves sign of X. The tuning is touchy though, and the 
menus are a hassle. I hadn't thought of an antenna analyzer product, 
since the field is so crowded, but maybe there's a niche for a simple 
device, along the lines of the MFJ, but smaller and with better product 
build (ie, user built kit ;-) and battery life. Maybe also with the 
ability to determine sign of phase angle.

Larry N8LP



Craig D. Smith wrote:
> I have a MFJ259B.  Had to hold my nose to shell out the $250 or so for
> something with that build quality and design flaws (size, battery system,
> etc).  That said, next to my transceiver, it is the piece of equipment I use
> most often and it does do the job intended.  I would feel naked without it.
> Every ham should have one or something equivalent.
>
> The features and quality of ham equipment these days is astounding, but
> strangely there, in my estimation, is no really good antenna analyzer on the
> market.  I think the MFJ is the best overall unit available, and that is a
> sad statement.  Most analyzers (see Eham reviews) score lower than the MFJ.
> The Palstar gets good marks for size, quality, etc, but does not have an
> analog meter which I think is an essential user interface for convenient
> usage.
>
> So I agree with the comment some others have made - there is a big market
> for a good antenna analyzer - especially with all the new ham licenses that
> will be minted soon.  My wish list includes: About half the physical size of
> the MFJ, analog meter plus LCD display, decent battery life, frequency
> coverage from 1.5 to 150 MHz, price about $250 or $200 for a kit.  I don't
> need automated plotting or computer interface.  Either Elecraft or Larry
> Phipps have the technical expertise and kitting experience to do a great job
> with such a project.  I hope they are listening!!
>
>               73     Craig  AC0DS
>  
>
>
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