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Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

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  #11  
Old 09-20-2006, 10:00 AM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

The previous post was correct about the ground issue. At 11 meters (or and band for that manner) a ground plane antenna requires a good ground in order to radiate properly. The Standing Wave Ratio needs to be checked at the radio end of the coax in order to get a correct reading of the antenna system. Lots of things will afftect the reading you get. For example don't try to check it under your carport or in the garage. You need to be in the open away from metal ojects etc. Even people standing close to the antenna will affect the readings.

Good luck.
 
  #12  
Old 09-20-2006, 10:42 AM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

Thanks for all the replies.....guess I'm going to go back to the stock whip for road trips, etc.

I'm still unable to check the SWR because the antenna coupler on the back of the Harley CB unit is smaller than the cable connectors on the back of my Radio Shack SWR meter....I bought the "mini couplers" and they don't fit either....I don't understand how others can check their SWR if they are using standard cable connectors

*I am definitely using the correct CB antenna lead under the fairing
*I understand that a shorter antenna will not perform like the stock whip, but I don't seem to be able to get out at all with the Freedom Cycle Reno units

Bummer
 
  #13  
Old 09-20-2006, 10:57 AM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

The metal plate helps to radiate the rf signal forward only. Since there is no metal plate behind the antenna, there CB will not work very well at all to the rear. Especially with one of the short antennas.

Yes, the coil inside the tour pack is also used as part of the antenna system.

The short black rubber looking antennas is larger around because is made up of a tightly wound coil of small wire that is making up for the normal length of a stock antenna.

The antenna may transmit and receive forward 1 mile but I would be willing to bet that it wouldn't would be doing well to work at 1/4 of a mile to the rear.
 
  #14  
Old 09-20-2006, 11:26 AM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

Karl,
When I get back this week I will ask my neighbor what he used to look at mine after I cut my antenna down.
I must admit, I have not used it so I dont know what the transmit range is, but when he did it, he tested it and said it was all set and now within range.
I only cut about 12" off my whips


ORIGINAL: kdietz

Thanks for all the replies.....guess I'm going to go back to the stock whip for road trips, etc.

I'm still unable to check the SWR because the antenna coupler on the back of the Harley CB unit is smaller than the cable connectors on the back of my Radio Shack SWR meter....I bought the "mini couplers" and they don't fit either....I don't understand how others can check their SWR if they are using standard cable connectors

*I am definitely using the correct CB antenna lead under the fairing
*I understand that a shorter antenna will not perform like the stock whip, but I don't seem to be able to get out at all with the Freedom Cycle Reno units

Bummer
 
  #15  
Old 09-20-2006, 01:26 PM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

Thanks Jake.....we can talk about it Saturday

Karl
 
  #16  
Old 09-20-2006, 02:59 PM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

karl and Jake,
I would like the info also
I was wondering if mine is set up to take it to the fullest advantages...
Karl,
I agrres I borrowed a swr meter from my dad and his has the larger fittings on it as well...
I second guessed myself and wondered if I had it on the right fitting and sure enough I did...
So whats up I ask
I fgured I'd get with jake and borrow his or ride on over to his place and get it adjusted...
paul
 
  #17  
Old 09-20-2006, 06:02 PM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

ORIGINAL: TexasBowhunter

karl and Jake,
I would like the info also
I was wondering if mine is set up to take it to the fullest advantages...
Karl,
I agrres I borrowed a swr meter from my dad and his has the larger fittings on it as well...
I second guessed myself and wondered if I had it on the right fitting and sure enough I did...
So whats up I ask
I fgured I'd get with jake and borrow his or ride on over to his place and get it adjusted...
paul
Paul, thanks for confirming that I'm not crazy! Kimberly and I plan on joining you on the ride this Saturday....maybe we can figure it all out then

Karl
 
  #18  
Old 10-17-2007, 08:29 PM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

I believe the Harley CB has what is called SMA connectors. Most automotive CB's and HAM radios use PL 259 connectors.

Here is a link to an adapter for most SWR meters or antenna analyzers:

http://www.universal-radio.com/CATAL...ts/0859lrg.jpg

Greg
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  #19  
Old 10-17-2007, 08:39 PM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

ORIGINAL: WichitaGreg

I believe the Harley CB has what is called SMA connectors. Most automotive CB's and HAM radios use PL 259 connectors.

Here is a link to an adapter for most SWR meters or antenna analyzers:

http://www.universal-radio.com/CATAL...ts/0859lrg.jpg

Greg
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Greg,

Are you sure it's an SMA? I think mine is a TNC.

Jim - K9DD
 
  #20  
Old 10-17-2007, 08:47 PM
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Default RE: Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?

I don't know why you have not switched over to FRS instead of CB. Longer range and less complicated.

FRS sets are cheap and you can have multiple radios on the same freq.


 


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