Adjusting SWR on CB antenna?
#11
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.
Good luck.
#12
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
#16
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
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
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
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
Karl
#18
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
WØGAN
Here is a link to an adapter for most SWR meters or antenna analyzers:
http://www.universal-radio.com/CATAL...ts/0859lrg.jpg
Greg
WØGAN
#19
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
WØGAN
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
WØGAN
Are you sure it's an SMA? I think mine is a TNC.
Jim - K9DD
#20