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Tech237
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Username: Tech237

Post Number: 720
Registered: 4-2004
Posted on Wednesday, March 14, 2007 - 11:05 am:   Edit Post Delete Post    Move Post (Moderator/Admin Only)



Workman SX-144/430
Cross Needle VHF/UHF SWR-Power Meter


Workman SX-144/430


Complete Specifications and Non-Technical Review.


By

Simon ~ Tech237


Technical Specifications


Frequency Range: 120 - 500MHz
Impedance: 50 ohms input/output
Power Range: 0-500 watts in three ranges
Forward: 10/100/500 watts
Reverse: 2/20/100 watts
Illuminated meter (12vdc and can be switched off)
Size:
Width: 5x5-1/8"
Height: 2-3/4"
Depth: 5-1/2"
130x140x80mm
Weight: 16 ounces /600 grams

Connections:

SO-239 ~ for Antenna Coax
SO-239 ~ for Transmitter Coax Jumper
DC-12V ~ for 12V power cord connect's to 12V power supply/source (Included) for Lighted Meter


Controls:

3 ~ Position Range Control: 10W ~ 100W ~ 500W

ON/OFF Meter Light w/Mini Toggle Switch (located on rear panel)


Review

Using the meter:
The use of a cross needle system is a convenient way to test antennas,as the use of such a meter will give you forward power, reverse power and SWR all at the same time - no switching between forward and reverse needed. The only thing you have to watch is connecting the radio and antennas to the correct sockets - both of which are clearly marked.

The meter is illuminated by connecting the power cord to your 12VDC supply. A mini toggle switch located on the rear of the meter allows you to turn the light on or off as needed. I did find that using the meter inside of a car the light was immensely useful.

Some comparisons were run testing this meter against several more expensive SWR/Power meters and in all the cases we tested the SX-144/430 was within 2 or 3 percent of the readings on the other meters. I even tested this meter down as low as 6m, and whereas this sample showed a fairly close match to meters (within 10%) designed for that range, this cannot be relied on to be accurate at these frequencies.

Final Comment's

In short I would recommend this meter to anyone who needs an SWR/Power meter for using between 120MHz and 500MHz. It is quick, simple to use and accurate.

Respectfully Submitted,

Simon
Tech237


Simon
Tech237
KD7IEB