Kristinn Andersen, TF3KX wrote:
Hi - I am looking for an impedance analyzer. Primarily for antenna
measurements (only 1,8-30 MHz) and secondarily for misc. lab
measurements (L,C,Q measurements, signal generation, etc.). The
possibilities I have been looking at are (in no particular order,
prices approximate):

a) MFJ-259B ($300)
b) MFJ-269 ($220)
c) AEA VIA ($600)
d) Autek VA1 ($200)
d) Micro908 kit from AmQRP ($210)
e) N2PK Vector Network Analyzer project ($150)

At first glance I have the following points/questions:

- Does MFJ-269 offer anything over 259B in addition to VHF/UHF?
- W8WWV tests (web) don't indicate that AEA VIA performs better than
the MFJs.
- Micro908 is new. Any experiences, comments on impedance accuracy?
- N2PK may be the most accurate(?) but needs a PC and involved
construction.
- Any comments on the Autek?

All suggestions are appreciated, based on experience and technical
quality.

73s de Kristinn, TF3KX

I have used three of these

MFJ-259B - OK while it was working, but it has failed twice. I do
not recommend!
Autek VA1 - Nice - but fiddley to use build quality not good
eats batteries!
AEA VIA - Very nice, the display makes on-site adjustments and checks
easy, ability to store and transfer data to a PC is useful
Solid build - won't run off NICAD/NIMH - it needs 12V!
N.B. I find the third party PC software better than the
official AEA software


73's Stephen G8LYB