Haven't arrived yet, but as soon as they do, I will give my report. But for now, here is what I have ordered.
First, I need a frequency counter. Always wanted one but most of them were desktop models. Technology now has reduced them to hand held models, and they even include power meters.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=400566557775&ssPageName=ADME:L:OC:US:3160
This model will allow me to monitor the frequency from the next item (below) and also monitor/test my VHF in the boat for the power output at the radio. It has a 10% margin of error at VHF but I am not too worried about that.
Second item is a used MFJ-207, SWR Analyzer. I will use this to tune my HF antenna (or at least the tuner connected to my rig) at home. This is a better approach than tuning with RF power. Final tuning will be done at low power but the initial find will be with the 207.
Now, the 207 only has an analog dial and reports say it is not very accurate. So this is where the GY561 comes in to play. I just connect the FC to the SWR-A and I will now have a monitor frequency when tuning. Very convenient.
This combination will also allow me to mount a slopping dipole on the boat and tune it to 14300 KHz without putting in any RF. I should learn from my home turning if there are any variables I will need to take into consideration.
After I receive the items I will report back in this thread with my findings.
First, I need a frequency counter. Always wanted one but most of them were desktop models. Technology now has reduced them to hand held models, and they even include power meters.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=400566557775&ssPageName=ADME:L:OC:US:3160
This model will allow me to monitor the frequency from the next item (below) and also monitor/test my VHF in the boat for the power output at the radio. It has a 10% margin of error at VHF but I am not too worried about that.
Second item is a used MFJ-207, SWR Analyzer. I will use this to tune my HF antenna (or at least the tuner connected to my rig) at home. This is a better approach than tuning with RF power. Final tuning will be done at low power but the initial find will be with the 207.
Now, the 207 only has an analog dial and reports say it is not very accurate. So this is where the GY561 comes in to play. I just connect the FC to the SWR-A and I will now have a monitor frequency when tuning. Very convenient.
This combination will also allow me to mount a slopping dipole on the boat and tune it to 14300 KHz without putting in any RF. I should learn from my home turning if there are any variables I will need to take into consideration.
After I receive the items I will report back in this thread with my findings.