Why does a radioamateur need Antenna and Cable Analyzer?

“I have been a radioamateur since 1990 and have never used an analyzer. No one needs it… ” – once flew on Facebook.

Respect for all who stand their ground despite the lure of progress. And it would be interesting to know why. After all, we know exactly how important the role of the analyzer is in the shack.

Why does the ham radio operator need an Antenna and Cable Analyzer?

The main task is to measure the characteristics of antennas and feeding lines. An analyzer sends a low-power phased signal to the antenna and measures the returned one. Both signals will differ in phase and amplitude. Thanks to the analyzer, you get data on the difference between them. In addition, the RigExpert analyzer displays the measurement results in various user-friendly ways.

An analyzer that only measures amplitude is called a Scalar. A Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) measures both amplitude and phase, allowing you to more fully and accurately measure device characteristics at a given frequency. Therefore, RegExpert produces only VNA.

Why is it necessary to control the parameters of the antenna and cable?

The quality and range of radio communications are largely determined by the propagation conditions of radio waves and the efficiency of transmitting and receiving antennas. That is why appropriate instrumentation is so important for general radio communications development.

Antennas and cables are installed in various conditions, including outdoors. Rain, snow, ice, wind, and lightning along the extreme temperatures can damage them down to the system level. RigExpert VNA helps to identify and localize damage in devices and thus monitor the condition of the entire system and separate components.

Different people are passionate about amateur radio. Everyone has their own experience in the hobby on which preferences are built. But the majority rule – you take an analyzer when you want efficient shack and big wins in your favorite sport.