What is an SWR test?
A SWR (short for “standing wave ratio”) meter is a calibration tool used to measure the standing wave ratio of a two way radio, a type of short-distance radio system that allows users to communicate over a limited number of channels. SWR is typically only tested on mobile or base installations.
What is a good SWR reading?
SWR 1.0-1.5: The ideal range! If your SWR is under 1.5, you’re in great shape. SWR 1.5 – 1.9: There’s room for improvement, but SWR in this range should still provide adequate performance. Occasionally, due to installations or vehicle variables, it’s impossible to get SWR lower than than this.
How do I test a SWR meter?
With the meter correctly hooked up to radio and antenna, set the switch to the “REF” position. Turn the SWR calibration knob fully counter-clockwise. Key the microphone and, while continuing to depress the talk button, adjust the calibration knob so that the needle touches the “SET” mark on the meter.
What is acceptable SWR?
What is a good SWR reading? The best reading possible is 1.01:1 (46dB return loss), but usually a reading below 1.5:1 is acceptable. Outside the perfect world a 1.2:1 (20.8dB return loss) is spot on in most cases. To ensure an accurate reading, it is best to connect the meter at the base of the antenna.
How do I lower the SWR on my antenna?
Turn the radio to channel 1. Key the microphone (depress the button and hold it). Turn the knob on the SWR meter labeled “SET” or “ADJUST” until the needle reaches the setting position at the end of its range. While still keying the microphone, flip the switch on the SWR meter to the “REF” or “SWR” position.
What would a high SWR indicate?
For instance a SWR too high (over 3:1) all over the band can be an indication of a bad part or junction, poor ground or poor location. An SWR too low over the whole band (1:1 for all 40 channels) can indicate a low efficiency antenna or lossy component.
How high is too high SWR?
For instance a SWR too high (over 3:1) all over the band can be an indication of a bad part or junction, poor ground or poor location. An SWR too low over the whole band (1:1 for all 40 channels) can indicate a low efficiency antenna or lossy component. Safe operation of your CB should be with an SWR of 2:1 or less.
How do I adjust the SWR on my antenna?
How can I improve my SWR?
If your antenna is mounted down low on the vehicle, like on the bumper or behind a pickup truck’s cab, the signal can bounce back to the antenna, causing a high SWR. To alleviate this, keep at least the top 12 inches of the antenna above the roof line, and position the antenna as high as possible on the vehicle.
Can bad ground cause high SWR?
This is almost always the result of a poor ground or incorrectly assembled stud, but on rare occasions can indicate a faulty coax, antenna, or incorrectly attached SWR meter.
