For Hams, choosing the right Antenna Analyzer

If you’re just getting started in the hobby or are excited about tinkering with equipment, the cheap VNA is what you need. For just over $50, and up to around $400 for more advanced models, you can start visualizing SWR curves, measuring impedance, and understanding how tweaks affect performance. Such VNA opens up a new world of optimization compared to guessing blindly. For casual and learning pursuits, it packs value. Also, for radio amateurs on a budget, low-cost DIY VNA provides an accessible entry point despite some limitations.

However, for hams pursuing DX contacts, awards, and contest wins, limitations are unacceptable. To succeed in a highly competitive environment and unlock the full potential of their system, radio amateurs require more than the features and solutions offered by cheap VNAs. The compromised construction of the interface and hardware fails to meet the needs of ambitious enthusiasts who seek precise and comprehensive information that can be consistently replicated.

RigExpert antenna analyzers are specifically designed for the tasks of ham radio operators. They are equipped with diverse tools and modes, with which the ham radio operator not only gets the necessary data in full but solves their task comprehensively: in one go tune a multiband antenna, find the bands with the best reception, display all measurements results on one screen at once and compare them with previous ones, and much more.

With advanced filtering and shielding, RigExpert antenna analyzers deliver lab-grade accuracy even in RF-saturated environments. This was proven again during professional antenna work at the Lviv TV tower, with dozens of kilowatt FM and TV transmitters operating simultaneously around the clock.

Models such as the AA-35/55/230 ZOOM from the “orange” line are favored by professional RF engineers and hams involved in HF and VHF DX-ing and contesting. These analyzers offer lab-grade accuracy. They are suitable for tower work due to their large screens, low weight, and ease of use, including the ability to operate analyzers remotely via Bluetooth.

If you need to measure antennas up to 3000 MHz or work with uplink antennas for satellite operation, the “green” ZOOM line (AA-650/1500/2000/AA-3000 ZOOM) from RigExpert is recommended. These analyzers, like all RigExpert units, have a specified working range limit indicated in their model names.

For portable operations or DXpeditions in challenging environments, the RigExpert Stick family of analyzers is essential. These compact and ruggedized analyzers, such as the Stick 230, Stick 500, Stick Pro, and Stick XPro, can withstand harsh conditions like rain, snow, high winds, humidity, and high temperatures. Remotely operate via Bluetooth, 16 hours of battery life, dust, splash-resistant casing, and much more make them ideal instruments for this. Today, the RigExpert Stick analyzers also successfully operate in deep mines with aggressive environments thanks to their strong and durable casing and long battery life.

The high quality of RigExpert analyzers is proven by the specifications of the devices, as well as extensive user experience, and is certified by NATO: the first device, the AA-650 ZOOM, received an NCAGE code, confirming compliance with the highest requirements and standards for equipment of the military-political bloc.

By providing a unique 2-year replacement warranty and 24/7/365 customer support, RigExpert takes on your problems and frees up your time for ham radio pursuits.

When your passion is pushing performance boundaries in ham radio, your antenna analyzer needs to keep pace. For proven precision that unlocks the full potential of your station, RigExpert remains the gold standard. Why settle when you can have the best? Treat your antennas to a RigExpert, and enjoy the QSOs you’ll make.

Right now, retail prices on RigExpert “orange” line ZOOM analyzers are reduced by up to $100. Take advantage of this offer to unlock the full potential of your radio system. Details of the promotion can be found here: https://rigexpert.com/news/where-to-buy-up-to-100/

You can learn more about RigExpert analyzers on this website.