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Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
Anyone using or have used a Rigexpert AA-200 Antenna Analyser?
I am interested to know good they are. 73 Andy |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
"Andy" wrote in message ... Anyone using or have used a Rigexpert AA-200 Antenna Analyser? I am interested to know good they are. 73 Andy Hi Andy, I just ordered one- should be here early next week. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
Hi Dale,
I found a review from Radcom on the net and it sounds good. http://www.mixw.co.uk/product/reviewAA200.htm I sent an e-mail to the designer of the Analyser and he says it does not require re-calibration. After hearing that I was sold. I ordered mine last night. He also sent me this link http://www.rigexpert.com/index?s=aa200&f=inside if you haven't seen it. 73 Andy "Dale Parfitt" wrote in message news:Hd7Zj.7680$HJ5.4705@trnddc01... "Andy" wrote in message ... Anyone using or have used a Rigexpert AA-200 Antenna Analyser? I am interested to know good they are. 73 Andy Hi Andy, I just ordered one- should be here early next week. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
Andy wrote:
I found a review from Radcom on the net and it sounds good. http://www.mixw.co.uk/product/reviewAA200.htm I sent an e-mail to the designer of the Analyser and he says it does not require re-calibration. That feature is a two-edged sword. On the one hand, it means the analyser is immediately ready for routine measurements. That of course is a good feature for most of the users, most of the time. On the other hand, if it doesn't have the *capability* to be recalibrated when different kinds of test fixtures are attached, it means that some useful kinds of measurements will not be possible... or worse, will appear to be possible but may give wrong answers. Measurements of the resonant frequencies of coaxial chokes are an example where analysers that cannot be recalibrated will give large errors - see the last few paragraphs of: http://audiosystemsgroup.com/RFI-Ham.pdf There's a place for both the simple handheld analysers and the ones that have more features but live on a bench. It's the buyer's choice... but whichever one you buy (or build) first, you may eventually find uses for both. -- 73 from Ian GM3SEK 'In Practice' columnist for RadCom (RSGB) http://www.ifwtech.co.uk/g3sek |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
"Ian White GM3SEK" wrote in message ... Andy wrote: I found a review from Radcom on the net and it sounds good. http://www.mixw.co.uk/product/reviewAA200.htm I sent an e-mail to the designer of the Analyser and he says it does not require re-calibration. That feature is a two-edged sword. On the one hand, it means the analyser is immediately ready for routine measurements. That of course is a good feature for most of the users, most of the time. On the other hand, if it doesn't have the *capability* to be recalibrated when different kinds of test fixtures are attached, it means that some useful kinds of measurements will not be possible... or worse, will appear to be possible but may give wrong answers. Measurements of the resonant frequencies of coaxial chokes are an example where analysers that cannot be recalibrated will give large errors - see the last few paragraphs of: http://audiosystemsgroup.com/RFI-Ham.pdf There's a place for both the simple handheld analysers and the ones that have more features but live on a bench. It's the buyer's choice... but whichever one you buy (or build) first, you may eventually find uses for both. Thsnk you for the Radcom link Andy- I had missed that. I agree with Ian on the recal- however I think for portable use this is ideal. I have an HP8711B for bench measurements. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
If I was to look out for an Antenna Analyser that would do the other
measurements that the AA-200 can't do. What would be the price rang that I could expect to pay and what would you recommend? 73 Andy "Dale Parfitt" wrote in message news:sim_j.2412$u7.535@trnddc07... "Ian White GM3SEK" wrote in message ... Andy wrote: I found a review from Radcom on the net and it sounds good. http://www.mixw.co.uk/product/reviewAA200.htm I sent an e-mail to the designer of the Analyser and he says it does not require re-calibration. That feature is a two-edged sword. On the one hand, it means the analyser is immediately ready for routine measurements. That of course is a good feature for most of the users, most of the time. On the other hand, if it doesn't have the *capability* to be recalibrated when different kinds of test fixtures are attached, it means that some useful kinds of measurements will not be possible... or worse, will appear to be possible but may give wrong answers. Measurements of the resonant frequencies of coaxial chokes are an example where analysers that cannot be recalibrated will give large errors - see the last few paragraphs of: http://audiosystemsgroup.com/RFI-Ham.pdf There's a place for both the simple handheld analysers and the ones that have more features but live on a bench. It's the buyer's choice... but whichever one you buy (or build) first, you may eventually find uses for both. Thsnk you for the Radcom link Andy- I had missed that. I agree with Ian on the recal- however I think for portable use this is ideal. I have an HP8711B for bench measurements. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
On Mon, 26 May 2008 11:03:41 +0100, "Andy"
wrote: If I was to look out for an Antenna Analyser that would do the other measurements that the AA-200 can't do. What would be the price rang that I could expect to pay and what would you recommend? 73 Andy Try this: http://w5big.com/ 73, Danny, K6MHE |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
My Rigexpert AA-200 has just arrived from
http://www.radioworld.co.uk/~radio/c...fec46917ed4fe4 So far I have only used the MFJ 259B. But this is a much better analyser. It is in a class of its own. I input the frequencies for all 5 bands and connected it to my Cobwebb antenna and got an instant SWR reading. It continuously monitors the SWR on all five bands at once. This is only one excellent feature of many. I have not had much experience with antenna analysers, but this one I am very impressed with, so far. 73 Andy "Dan Richardson" wrote in message ... On Mon, 26 May 2008 11:03:41 +0100, "Andy" wrote: If I was to look out for an Antenna Analyser that would do the other measurements that the AA-200 can't do. What would be the price rang that I could expect to pay and what would you recommend? 73 Andy Try this: http://w5big.com/ 73, Danny, K6MHE |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
"Andy" wrote in message ... My Rigexpert AA-200 has just arrived from http://www.radioworld.co.uk/~radio/c...fec46917ed4fe4 So far I have only used the MFJ 259B. But this is a much better analyser. It is in a class of its own. I input the frequencies for all 5 bands and connected it to my Cobwebb antenna and got an instant SWR reading. It continuously monitors the SWR on all five bands at once. This is only one excellent feature of many. I have not had much experience with antenna analysers, but this one I am very impressed with, so far. 73 Andy Hi Andy, Have you been able to use the software? I don't see any documentation for it or an explaination of the "PC" switch on the analyzer. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
Dale,
I haven't tried yet. I will give it ago this morning and I will let you know ASAP, how I get on. 73 Andy "Dale Parfitt" wrote in message news:P%M%j.14200$ED6.8352@trnddc02... "Andy" wrote in message ... My Rigexpert AA-200 has just arrived from http://www.radioworld.co.uk/~radio/c...fec46917ed4fe4 So far I have only used the MFJ 259B. But this is a much better analyser. It is in a class of its own. I input the frequencies for all 5 bands and connected it to my Cobwebb antenna and got an instant SWR reading. It continuously monitors the SWR on all five bands at once. This is only one excellent feature of many. I have not had much experience with antenna analysers, but this one I am very impressed with, so far. 73 Andy Hi Andy, Have you been able to use the software? I don't see any documentation for it or an explaination of the "PC" switch on the analyzer. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
Dale,
I have got my software working with the AA-200. What did they supply in the box with your Analyser? Once I know then I will be able to help. 73 Andy "Dale Parfitt" wrote in message news:P%M%j.14200$ED6.8352@trnddc02... "Andy" wrote in message ... My Rigexpert AA-200 has just arrived from http://www.radioworld.co.uk/~radio/c...fec46917ed4fe4 So far I have only used the MFJ 259B. But this is a much better analyser. It is in a class of its own. I input the frequencies for all 5 bands and connected it to my Cobwebb antenna and got an instant SWR reading. It continuously monitors the SWR on all five bands at once. This is only one excellent feature of many. I have not had much experience with antenna analysers, but this one I am very impressed with, so far. 73 Andy Hi Andy, Have you been able to use the software? I don't see any documentation for it or an explaination of the "PC" switch on the analyzer. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
"Andy" wrote in message ... Dale, I have got my software working with the AA-200. What did they supply in the box with your Analyser? Once I know then I will be able to help. 73 Andy Hi Andy, My mail to bounces- is there a better address? I have the CD and the USB cable. The software is installed on the computer- but don't know about which com port etc. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
I now have my AA-200 up and running with the latest firmware and software.
Support from RigExpert Canada has been first rate too. I have owned about every analyzer out there from Autek to Timewave- except the AIM as it requires a PC and that is not convenient for me. The AA-200 is a vector device that even allows one to change the connector simulation L/C. It agrees extremely well with my HP 8711B and the software allows easy archiving and documentation. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
Dale,
Glad you are happy with the AA-200 but the ability to calibrate an analyzer with standards at the end of a cable or through a filter is IMHO the absolute most important feature an analyzer can have. The difference in accuracy is huge. Additionally the ability to make measurements with a tuned tracking receiver rather than a broadband detector separates the toys from the real equipment in the presence of other RF interference when making antenna measurements. Granted that the absence of a PC is a plus but the larger screen of a notebook PC is a big deal to me as is the ability to capture plots for others to see. I would take the AIM4170 over the AA-200 any day. If you wish, take a look at http://www.bnk.com/w0qe/AIM4170_page1.html for a detailed examination of the AIM4170. I am in no way connected to Array Solutions who sells the 4170. 73, Larry, W0QE Dale Parfitt wrote: I now have my AA-200 up and running with the latest firmware and software. Support from RigExpert Canada has been first rate too. I have owned about every analyzer out there from Autek to Timewave- except the AIM as it requires a PC and that is not convenient for me. The AA-200 is a vector device that even allows one to change the connector simulation L/C. It agrees extremely well with my HP 8711B and the software allows easy archiving and documentation. Dale W4OP |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
On Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:16:45 -0600, Larry Benko
wrote: Dale, Glad you are happy with the AA-200 but the ability to calibrate an analyzer with standards at the end of a cable or through a filter is IMHO the absolute most important feature an analyzer can have. The difference in accuracy is huge. Additionally the ability to make measurements with a tuned tracking receiver rather than a broadband detector separates the toys from the real equipment in the presence of other RF interference when making antenna measurements. Granted that the absence of a PC is a plus but the larger screen of a notebook PC is a big deal to me as is the ability to capture plots for others to see. I would take the AIM4170 over the AA-200 any day. If you wish, take a look at http://www.bnk.com/w0qe/AIM4170_page1.html for a detailed examination of the AIM4170. I am in no way connected to Array Solutions who sells the 4170. 73, Larry, W0QE I'll second that Larry. If you really want to soar add a Bluetooth to RS232 serial adapter and battery to the AIM. That makes it much more convenient to use plus it will improve measurement accuracies by easily having everything floating above ground potential. 73, Danny, K6MHE .. |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
I've had my RigExpert AA-200 for a few weeks now and I'm impressed with it.
I have only had the MFJ-259 as a comparison. This Analyser for what I use it for, is far superior to the MFJ-259 in all ways. This is just what I have experienced myself.. Others may prefer the MFJ. I can't think why though. Using a small homebrew loop coupler to measure the frequency of my homebrew traps on the AA-200 was very consistent and repeatable, with the same reliable and accurate readings every time. I got a fantastic dip at resonance. Unlike my TR Dip meter and the MFJ-259. Both would be close each time but not spot on like the AA-200. I found using the AA-200 for homebrew Antennas is very easy and nice to use. I'm new to using Analysers , so I'm still learning. But I can't fault this Analyser in any way for what I use it for. It does every thing I want it to do and does it very well indeed, all the time and every time with out fail. What amazes me is after using the MFJ-259 and the AA-200 is why people are still buying the MFJ. I know its cheaper, but after having two fail on me, well never again. 73 Andy Danny Richardson wrote in message ... On Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:16:45 -0600, Larry Benko wrote: Dale, Glad you are happy with the AA-200 but the ability to calibrate an analyzer with standards at the end of a cable or through a filter is IMHO the absolute most important feature an analyzer can have. The difference in accuracy is huge. Additionally the ability to make measurements with a tuned tracking receiver rather than a broadband detector separates the toys from the real equipment in the presence of other RF interference when making antenna measurements. Granted that the absence of a PC is a plus but the larger screen of a notebook PC is a big deal to me as is the ability to capture plots for others to see. I would take the AIM4170 over the AA-200 any day. If you wish, take a look at http://www.bnk.com/w0qe/AIM4170_page1.html for a detailed examination of the AIM4170. I am in no way connected to Array Solutions who sells the 4170. 73, Larry, W0QE I'll second that Larry. If you really want to soar add a Bluetooth to RS232 serial adapter and battery to the AIM. That makes it much more convenient to use plus it will improve measurement accuracies by easily having everything floating above ground potential. 73, Danny, K6MHE . |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
For what it's worth...
I own an MFJ analyzer, not the RigExpert AA-200. Why? 'Cuz I can afford it, can't afford the RigExpert. While extreme accuracy would certainly be nice, I just don't have a need for that accuracy. If it get's into the ball park, that's usually close enough. The MFJ thingy is also a bit more convenient for me to use, no need for a computer, doesn't weigh a ton, and I can afford it. Is it the best? (Qualified) NO! But it works. Would I like to have that RigExpert AA-200? Sure! But not enough to buy one. Ahem... if someone should decide to give their's away.... (hold my breath, right?) - 'Doc |
Rigexpert AA-200 antenna analyser
Fair enough, Doc. That's why I went for the MFJ in the first place.
It's not heavy, comes with its own carrying case with shoulder strap and its very portable. I don't know where you get the need for a computer from. You don't need a PC to use the AA-200. Its a added bonus if you want to connect it to a computer but you don't need to. In fact, apart from testing the software and updating the firmware I haven't found the need to use the computer with it since. Not for what I need it for at the moment. This will probably change over time. I get all the readings on the display of the AA-200 itself. So I get the best of both words. 73 Andy wrote in message ... For what it's worth... I own an MFJ analyzer, not the RigExpert AA-200. Why? 'Cuz I can afford it, can't afford the RigExpert. While extreme accuracy would certainly be nice, I just don't have a need for that accuracy. If it get's into the ball park, that's usually close enough. The MFJ thingy is also a bit more convenient for me to use, no need for a computer, doesn't weigh a ton, and I can afford it. Is it the best? (Qualified) NO! But it works. Would I like to have that RigExpert AA-200? Sure! But not enough to buy one. Ahem... if someone should decide to give their's away.... (hold my breath, right?) - 'Doc |
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