Why can't MFJ fix my Analyzer?!
 

I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR. I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else. The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna. I emailed Scott and he said he
would help pay for the repair expenses since it didn't seem to have been
damaged in shipment, but actually not working 100% when sold. He never came
through with any help on the expenses even after several emails.

I was finally able to mail it to MFJ about a month after receiving it. MFJ
claimed to have fixed it, I paid the repair costs and they mailed it back to
me. It arrived and STILL didn't work right, even though several parts were
listed as being replaced. I called them and they offered to have it shipped
back and looked at again at no expense to me. I did this. They recieved it
on 1/21/2004 and I received it back yesterday. It STILL doesn't work,
dispite the fact that they claim 2 diodes were replaced. Now I'm waiting
from my repair guy to come into work and I'm going to ask him what the next
step is.

Anyone else have an experience like this!? I basically have an MFJ-259
because the UHF doesn't work, even though I paid for an MFJ-269!

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna.

What makes you think the antennas don't exhibit that SWR at those freqs?
(Not being obnoxious, just curious ...)

Carl - wk3c

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna.

What makes you think the antennas don't exhibit that SWR at those freqs?
(Not being obnoxious, just curious ...)

Carl - wk3c

Andy,

what's the VSWR with a 50ohm and a 100ohm load. Are they 1:1 and 2:1?

Roger G7JAQ

Andy,

what's the VSWR with a 50ohm and a 100ohm load. Are they 1:1 and 2:1?

Roger G7JAQ

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna.
I would consider that a pretty poor test of the analyzer. Find a known good
50 Ohm termination ( at 70cM) and use it to test the analyzer. Although you
did not state it, I assume you are testing these antennas through a length
of coaxial cable- unless you account for the cable's electrical length and
loss, the readings will not be accurate.

Dale W4OP

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna.
I would consider that a pretty poor test of the analyzer. Find a known good
50 Ohm termination ( at 70cM) and use it to test the analyzer. Although you
did not state it, I assume you are testing these antennas through a length
of coaxial cable- unless you account for the cable's electrical length and
loss, the readings will not be accurate.

Dale W4OP

"Dale Parfitt" wrote in message
...

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna.
I would consider that a pretty poor test of the analyzer. Find a known good
50 Ohm termination ( at 70cM) and use it to test the analyzer. Although you
did not state it, I assume you are testing these antennas through a length
of coaxial cable- unless you account for the cable's electrical length and
loss, the readings will not be accurate.

Dale W4OP


Yup ... those reading look a lot like 100' of old RG-58 with a
short or open at the other end ;-)

--

... Hank

Hank: http://horedson.home.att.net
W0RLI: http://w0rli.home.att.net

"Dale Parfitt" wrote in message
...

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna.
I would consider that a pretty poor test of the analyzer. Find a known good
50 Ohm termination ( at 70cM) and use it to test the analyzer. Although you
did not state it, I assume you are testing these antennas through a length
of coaxial cable- unless you account for the cable's electrical length and
loss, the readings will not be accurate.

Dale W4OP


Yup ... those reading look a lot like 100' of old RG-58 with a
short or open at the other end ;-)

--

... Hank

Hank: http://horedson.home.att.net
W0RLI: http://w0rli.home.att.net

Another MFJ victim....live and learn!

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna. I emailed Scott and he said he
would help pay for the repair expenses since it didn't seem to have been
damaged in shipment, but actually not working 100% when sold. He never
came
through with any help on the expenses even after several emails.

I was finally able to mail it to MFJ about a month after receiving it. MFJ
claimed to have fixed it, I paid the repair costs and they mailed it back
to
me. It arrived and STILL didn't work right, even though several parts were
listed as being replaced. I called them and they offered to have it
shipped
back and looked at again at no expense to me. I did this. They recieved it
on 1/21/2004 and I received it back yesterday. It STILL doesn't work,
dispite the fact that they claim 2 diodes were replaced. Now I'm waiting
from my repair guy to come into work and I'm going to ask him what the
next
step is.

Anyone else have an experience like this!? I basically have an MFJ-259
because the UHF doesn't work, even though I paid for an MFJ-269!

Another MFJ victim....live and learn!

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc... It was obvious that the analyzer was
displaying the wrong SWR on every antenna. I emailed Scott and he said he
would help pay for the repair expenses since it didn't seem to have been
damaged in shipment, but actually not working 100% when sold. He never
came
through with any help on the expenses even after several emails.

I was finally able to mail it to MFJ about a month after receiving it. MFJ
claimed to have fixed it, I paid the repair costs and they mailed it back
to
me. It arrived and STILL didn't work right, even though several parts were
listed as being replaced. I called them and they offered to have it
shipped
back and looked at again at no expense to me. I did this. They recieved it
on 1/21/2004 and I received it back yesterday. It STILL doesn't work,
dispite the fact that they claim 2 diodes were replaced. Now I'm waiting
from my repair guy to come into work and I'm going to ask him what the
next
step is.

Anyone else have an experience like this!? I basically have an MFJ-259
because the UHF doesn't work, even though I paid for an MFJ-269!

"Carl R. Stevenson" wrote in message
...

What makes you think the antennas don't exhibit that SWR at those freqs?
(Not being obnoxious, just curious ...)

Carl - wk3c

Because I did on the air tests with my watt meter and found that the SWR is
only good in the rated portions for each antenna. Besides, if these antenas
were as broadbanded as the analyzer is saying, the manufacturers would be
selling these antennas for more than I paid for 'em.

"Carl R. Stevenson" wrote in message
...

What makes you think the antennas don't exhibit that SWR at those freqs?
(Not being obnoxious, just curious ...)

Carl - wk3c

Because I did on the air tests with my watt meter and found that the SWR is
only good in the rated portions for each antenna. Besides, if these antenas
were as broadbanded as the analyzer is saying, the manufacturers would be
selling these antennas for more than I paid for 'em.

"Dale Parfitt" wrote in message
...

I would consider that a pretty poor test of the analyzer. Find a known
good
50 Ohm termination ( at 70cM) and use it to test the analyzer. Although
you
did not state it, I assume you are testing these antennas through a length
of coaxial cable- unless you account for the cable's electrical length and
loss, the readings will not be accurate.

Dale W4OP

I've tested the other antennas (HF and VHF) at the end of the coax with the
analyzer and they show the same results as on the air tests with the
wattmeter. When I switch to UHF, the results are completly different between
my on the air tests and the analyzer. I'd say this is a good indication of a
problem. I also tested one of the UHF antennas at the antenna, with a small
jumper, about 8 feet in length.

"Dale Parfitt" wrote in message
...

I would consider that a pretty poor test of the analyzer. Find a known
good
50 Ohm termination ( at 70cM) and use it to test the analyzer. Although
you
did not state it, I assume you are testing these antennas through a length
of coaxial cable- unless you account for the cable's electrical length and
loss, the readings will not be accurate.

Dale W4OP

I've tested the other antennas (HF and VHF) at the end of the coax with the
analyzer and they show the same results as on the air tests with the
wattmeter. When I switch to UHF, the results are completly different between
my on the air tests and the analyzer. I'd say this is a good indication of a
problem. I also tested one of the UHF antennas at the antenna, with a small
jumper, about 8 feet in length.

"Dave Edwards" wrote in message
...
Another MFJ victim....live and learn!

First MFJ product I've had problems with. I've owned a lot of products and
their analyzers are usually very good. I owned an MFJ-259 before this, but
wanted UHF capabilities, so I bought the 269.

"Dave Edwards" wrote in message
...
Another MFJ victim....live and learn!

First MFJ product I've had problems with. I've owned a lot of products and
their analyzers are usually very good. I owned an MFJ-259 before this, but
wanted UHF capabilities, so I bought the 269.

On Fri, 20 Feb 2004 21:01:42 -0500, "Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at
COMCAST DOT NET wrote:


"Dave Edwards" wrote in message
...
Another MFJ victim....live and learn!

First MFJ product I've had problems with. I've owned a lot of products and
their analyzers are usually very good. I owned an MFJ-259 before this, but
wanted UHF capabilities, so I bought the 269.

Well, I had a similar experience with their 2M SSB radio. Had their 6
meter version and have nothing but good things to say so I figured
their 2meter model would be as good. Wrong - never got more than 1.5
watts PEP, sent it back they said it was okay. Again tested it out on
air and even the folks just a mile or two away reported very weak
signal; put it on the meter and same issue about 1.5 watts PEP. BTW,
they returned it minus the manual that I foolishly packed with the
radio (sent everything it came with in case they decided to replace
it). Talked to them of the problem and they had me send it back.
After about 2 months and several calls they sent it back and claimed
the unit was just fine and the problem was with my antenna and/or
feedline and/or meter. Well, I did use two different meters - a Yaesu
that measures PEP and a borrowed Bird 43 - both read within a quarter
watt of each other. Checked the antenna out and it had a low(1.2:1)
SWR, changed the coax just to be sure and the readings were the same
(SWR of the antenna/feedline and the power output). Spoke to MFJ
again and they flat out refused to deal with the issue.

I won't claim that all their products are "Mighty Fine Junk" or that a
number of folks do get good service from them. Several folks I know
have their tuners and they work just fine and likewise with their '259
analyzer. However, I will no longer patronize their business due to
the length of time they took on addressing my concerns and the fact
that the problem was not even partially resolved. Had they returned
it with any improvement I might feel differently, or had they taken
the attitude of "Have you checked out your antenna/feedline/meter"
versus just claiming that was the problem I would have felt that at
least they were listening and working toward resolution. Oh well, it
doesn't transmit worth a darn - but in fairness the receive is pretty
hot.

Howard

On Fri, 20 Feb 2004 21:01:42 -0500, "Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at
COMCAST DOT NET wrote:


"Dave Edwards" wrote in message
...
Another MFJ victim....live and learn!

First MFJ product I've had problems with. I've owned a lot of products and
their analyzers are usually very good. I owned an MFJ-259 before this, but
wanted UHF capabilities, so I bought the 269.

Well, I had a similar experience with their 2M SSB radio. Had their 6
meter version and have nothing but good things to say so I figured
their 2meter model would be as good. Wrong - never got more than 1.5
watts PEP, sent it back they said it was okay. Again tested it out on
air and even the folks just a mile or two away reported very weak
signal; put it on the meter and same issue about 1.5 watts PEP. BTW,
they returned it minus the manual that I foolishly packed with the
radio (sent everything it came with in case they decided to replace
it). Talked to them of the problem and they had me send it back.
After about 2 months and several calls they sent it back and claimed
the unit was just fine and the problem was with my antenna and/or
feedline and/or meter. Well, I did use two different meters - a Yaesu
that measures PEP and a borrowed Bird 43 - both read within a quarter
watt of each other. Checked the antenna out and it had a low(1.2:1)
SWR, changed the coax just to be sure and the readings were the same
(SWR of the antenna/feedline and the power output). Spoke to MFJ
again and they flat out refused to deal with the issue.

I won't claim that all their products are "Mighty Fine Junk" or that a
number of folks do get good service from them. Several folks I know
have their tuners and they work just fine and likewise with their '259
analyzer. However, I will no longer patronize their business due to
the length of time they took on addressing my concerns and the fact
that the problem was not even partially resolved. Had they returned
it with any improvement I might feel differently, or had they taken
the attitude of "Have you checked out your antenna/feedline/meter"
versus just claiming that was the problem I would have felt that at
least they were listening and working toward resolution. Oh well, it
doesn't transmit worth a darn - but in fairness the receive is pretty
hot.

Howard

As far as the actual customer service so far, they've been pretty good. At
least they sent UPS here to pick up the analyzer at no cost and they're
doing it again. This time the service manager will be looking at the unit
personally. I also had another experience where my 3 element 6 yagi became
bent during a bad storm. MFJ offered to replace any parts needed for free.
Luckily I was able to straighten it out and it works fine now.

I just hope that this analyzer thing gets taken care of this time for good.
The service manager claims as soon as it arrives, he will personally look at
it.

--
73! de Andy KC2SSB
Beachwood, NJ USA! Grid FM29vw
http://shorecogs.tripod.com

"Howard" wrote in message
...
I won't claim that all their products are "Mighty Fine Junk" or that a
number of folks do get good service from them. Several folks I know
have their tuners and they work just fine and likewise with their '259
analyzer. However, I will no longer patronize their business due to
the length of time they took on addressing my concerns and the fact
that the problem was not even partially resolved. Had they returned
it with any improvement I might feel differently, or had they taken
the attitude of "Have you checked out your antenna/feedline/meter"
versus just claiming that was the problem I would have felt that at
least they were listening and working toward resolution. Oh well, it
doesn't transmit worth a darn - but in fairness the receive is pretty
hot.

Howard

As far as the actual customer service so far, they've been pretty good. At
least they sent UPS here to pick up the analyzer at no cost and they're
doing it again. This time the service manager will be looking at the unit
personally. I also had another experience where my 3 element 6 yagi became
bent during a bad storm. MFJ offered to replace any parts needed for free.
Luckily I was able to straighten it out and it works fine now.

I just hope that this analyzer thing gets taken care of this time for good.
The service manager claims as soon as it arrives, he will personally look at
it.

--
73! de Andy KC2SSB
Beachwood, NJ USA! Grid FM29vw
http://shorecogs.tripod.com

"Howard" wrote in message
...
I won't claim that all their products are "Mighty Fine Junk" or that a
number of folks do get good service from them. Several folks I know
have their tuners and they work just fine and likewise with their '259
analyzer. However, I will no longer patronize their business due to
the length of time they took on addressing my concerns and the fact
that the problem was not even partially resolved. Had they returned
it with any improvement I might feel differently, or had they taken
the attitude of "Have you checked out your antenna/feedline/meter"
versus just claiming that was the problem I would have felt that at
least they were listening and working toward resolution. Oh well, it
doesn't transmit worth a darn - but in fairness the receive is pretty
hot.

Howard

Well I hope they fix it right for you.
On the other hand I have heard the same
stories about Icom, Yaesu and Kenwood,
with their products over the years.

M.F.J. Mighty Fine Junk, so they use to say :-)
=======================================

Andy Cogswell wrote:

As far as the actual customer service so far, they've been pretty good. At
least they sent UPS here to pick up the analyzer at no cost and they're
doing it again. This time the service manager will be looking at the unit
personally. I also had another experience where my 3 element 6 yagi became
bent during a bad storm. MFJ offered to replace any parts needed for free.
Luckily I was able to straighten it out and it works fine now.

I just hope that this analyzer thing gets taken care of this time for good.
The service manager claims as soon as it arrives, he will personally look at
it.

--
73! de Andy KC2SSB
Beachwood, NJ USA! Grid FM29vw
http://shorecogs.tripod.com

"Howard" wrote in message
...
I won't claim that all their products are "Mighty Fine Junk" or that a
number of folks do get good service from them. Several folks I know
have their tuners and they work just fine and likewise with their '259
analyzer. However, I will no longer patronize their business due to
the length of time they took on addressing my concerns and the fact
that the problem was not even partially resolved. Had they returned
it with any improvement I might feel differently, or had they taken
the attitude of "Have you checked out your antenna/feedline/meter"
versus just claiming that was the problem I would have felt that at
least they were listening and working toward resolution. Oh well, it
doesn't transmit worth a darn - but in fairness the receive is pretty
hot.

Howard

Well I hope they fix it right for you.
On the other hand I have heard the same
stories about Icom, Yaesu and Kenwood,
with their products over the years.

M.F.J. Mighty Fine Junk, so they use to say :-)
=======================================

Andy Cogswell wrote:

As far as the actual customer service so far, they've been pretty good. At
least they sent UPS here to pick up the analyzer at no cost and they're
doing it again. This time the service manager will be looking at the unit
personally. I also had another experience where my 3 element 6 yagi became
bent during a bad storm. MFJ offered to replace any parts needed for free.
Luckily I was able to straighten it out and it works fine now.

I just hope that this analyzer thing gets taken care of this time for good.
The service manager claims as soon as it arrives, he will personally look at
it.

--
73! de Andy KC2SSB
Beachwood, NJ USA! Grid FM29vw
http://shorecogs.tripod.com

"Howard" wrote in message
...
I won't claim that all their products are "Mighty Fine Junk" or that a
number of folks do get good service from them. Several folks I know
have their tuners and they work just fine and likewise with their '259
analyzer. However, I will no longer patronize their business due to
the length of time they took on addressing my concerns and the fact
that the problem was not even partially resolved. Had they returned
it with any improvement I might feel differently, or had they taken
the attitude of "Have you checked out your antenna/feedline/meter"
versus just claiming that was the problem I would have felt that at
least they were listening and working toward resolution. Oh well, it
doesn't transmit worth a darn - but in fairness the receive is pretty
hot.

Howard

I have a Diamond X-6000A triband antenna, and its SWR curves are 'wavy'
on VHF and a little on UHF, not the smooth symmetrical log curve one
might expect. It's likely the interaction of the other band resonances,
but nothing to lead me to believe it's broken.

I like the suggestion about trying a good quality dummy load on it (or
perhaps another analyser on the same group of antennas) before you
condemn the thing as junk.

Good luck!

B

I have a Diamond X-6000A triband antenna, and its SWR curves are 'wavy'
on VHF and a little on UHF, not the smooth symmetrical log curve one
might expect. It's likely the interaction of the other band resonances,
but nothing to lead me to believe it's broken.

I like the suggestion about trying a good quality dummy load on it (or
perhaps another analyser on the same group of antennas) before you
condemn the thing as junk.

Good luck!

B

I have the first SWR analyzer (with freq output, no counter).
Only problem I ever had with it was the meter fell out. Not surprised to see
it was glued in, but
it works....so I am lucky.
If you have owned lots of MFJ stuff and it all works, all I can say is that
I'm happy for you. Many others have not been as fortunate!
....Dave
"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...

"Dave Edwards" wrote in message
...
Another MFJ victim....live and learn!

First MFJ product I've had problems with. I've owned a lot of products and
their analyzers are usually very good. I owned an MFJ-259 before this, but
wanted UHF capabilities, so I bought the 269.

I have the first SWR analyzer (with freq output, no counter).
Only problem I ever had with it was the meter fell out. Not surprised to see
it was glued in, but
it works....so I am lucky.
If you have owned lots of MFJ stuff and it all works, all I can say is that
I'm happy for you. Many others have not been as fortunate!
....Dave
"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...

"Dave Edwards" wrote in message
...
Another MFJ victim....live and learn!

First MFJ product I've had problems with. I've owned a lot of products and
their analyzers are usually very good. I owned an MFJ-259 before this, but
wanted UHF capabilities, so I bought the 269.

While it is possible that your analyzer isn't working, it is also possible
that you do have some wild variances in impedance with your current setup. I
took a look at the return loss of one of my antenna systems with a tracking
generator/spectrum analyzer combination, and did see some multiple resonance
nodes. This measurement was done, using a Narda directional coupler, which
is flat out to 12GHz, as measured on an HP 8753E Network Analyzer.
Some sort of transfer standard such as an accurate 50 Ohm load would verify
if your analyzer is bad.

Pete

"Bob" wrote in message
...
I have a Diamond X-6000A triband antenna, and its SWR curves are 'wavy'
on VHF and a little on UHF, not the smooth symmetrical log curve one
might expect. It's likely the interaction of the other band resonances,
but nothing to lead me to believe it's broken.

I like the suggestion about trying a good quality dummy load on it (or
perhaps another analyser on the same group of antennas) before you
condemn the thing as junk.

Good luck!

B

While it is possible that your analyzer isn't working, it is also possible
that you do have some wild variances in impedance with your current setup. I
took a look at the return loss of one of my antenna systems with a tracking
generator/spectrum analyzer combination, and did see some multiple resonance
nodes. This measurement was done, using a Narda directional coupler, which
is flat out to 12GHz, as measured on an HP 8753E Network Analyzer.
Some sort of transfer standard such as an accurate 50 Ohm load would verify
if your analyzer is bad.

Pete

"Bob" wrote in message
...
I have a Diamond X-6000A triband antenna, and its SWR curves are 'wavy'
on VHF and a little on UHF, not the smooth symmetrical log curve one
might expect. It's likely the interaction of the other band resonances,
but nothing to lead me to believe it's broken.

I like the suggestion about trying a good quality dummy load on it (or
perhaps another analyser on the same group of antennas) before you
condemn the thing as junk.

Good luck!

B

"Pete KE9OA" wrote in message
...
While it is possible that your analyzer isn't working, it is also possible
that you do have some wild variances in impedance with your current setup.
I
took a look at the return loss of one of my antenna systems with a
tracking
generator/spectrum analyzer combination, and did see some multiple
resonance
nodes. This measurement was done, using a Narda directional coupler, which
is flat out to 12GHz, as measured on an HP 8753E Network Analyzer.
Some sort of transfer standard such as an accurate 50 Ohm load would
verify
if your analyzer is bad.

Pete

Considering that all 3 antennas showed appropriate SWR readings on their
respective frequencies on my wattmeter with on-the-air tests, and the
analyzer showed wild SWR readings on the same frequencies, I'd say the
analyzer is at fault. Works perfectly at HF/VHF, so I basically have an
MFJ-259 in an MFJ-269 shell until they fix it.

UPS picked it up yesterday. Hopefully I will hear something within the next
2 weeks.

"Pete KE9OA" wrote in message
...
While it is possible that your analyzer isn't working, it is also possible
that you do have some wild variances in impedance with your current setup.
I
took a look at the return loss of one of my antenna systems with a
tracking
generator/spectrum analyzer combination, and did see some multiple
resonance
nodes. This measurement was done, using a Narda directional coupler, which
is flat out to 12GHz, as measured on an HP 8753E Network Analyzer.
Some sort of transfer standard such as an accurate 50 Ohm load would
verify
if your analyzer is bad.

Pete

Considering that all 3 antennas showed appropriate SWR readings on their
respective frequencies on my wattmeter with on-the-air tests, and the
analyzer showed wild SWR readings on the same frequencies, I'd say the
analyzer is at fault. Works perfectly at HF/VHF, so I basically have an
MFJ-259 in an MFJ-269 shell until they fix it.

UPS picked it up yesterday. Hopefully I will hear something within the next
2 weeks.

I must have been asleep when I made this post....................It was an
8717 or 8718............the 8753 only goes out to 3GHz!

Pete

"Pete KE9OA" wrote in message
...
While it is possible that your analyzer isn't working, it is also possible
that you do have some wild variances in impedance with your current setup.
I
took a look at the return loss of one of my antenna systems with a
tracking
generator/spectrum analyzer combination, and did see some multiple
resonance
nodes. This measurement was done, using a Narda directional coupler, which
is flat out to 12GHz, as measured on an HP 8753E Network Analyzer.
Some sort of transfer standard such as an accurate 50 Ohm load would
verify
if your analyzer is bad.

Pete

"Bob" wrote in message
...
I have a Diamond X-6000A triband antenna, and its SWR curves are 'wavy'
on VHF and a little on UHF, not the smooth symmetrical log curve one
might expect. It's likely the interaction of the other band resonances,
but nothing to lead me to believe it's broken.

I like the suggestion about trying a good quality dummy load on it (or
perhaps another analyser on the same group of antennas) before you
condemn the thing as junk.

Good luck!

B

I must have been asleep when I made this post....................It was an
8717 or 8718............the 8753 only goes out to 3GHz!

Pete

"Pete KE9OA" wrote in message
...
While it is possible that your analyzer isn't working, it is also possible
that you do have some wild variances in impedance with your current setup.
I
took a look at the return loss of one of my antenna systems with a
tracking
generator/spectrum analyzer combination, and did see some multiple
resonance
nodes. This measurement was done, using a Narda directional coupler, which
is flat out to 12GHz, as measured on an HP 8753E Network Analyzer.
Some sort of transfer standard such as an accurate 50 Ohm load would
verify
if your analyzer is bad.

Pete

"Bob" wrote in message
...
I have a Diamond X-6000A triband antenna, and its SWR curves are 'wavy'
on VHF and a little on UHF, not the smooth symmetrical log curve one
might expect. It's likely the interaction of the other band resonances,
but nothing to lead me to believe it's broken.

I like the suggestion about trying a good quality dummy load on it (or
perhaps another analyser on the same group of antennas) before you
condemn the thing as junk.

Good luck!

B

I am sure that it is quite possible that your unit has a problem, but still,
a directional wattmeter is not the absolute means of measurement accuracy.
When working in an RF lab, even the Bird 43 series elements need to be
calibrated against a power meter, such as an HP 437. I wouuld still try an
accurate 50 Ohm load for characterization.
Good luck.

Pete

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
"Pete KE9OA" wrote in message
...
While it is possible that your analyzer isn't working, it is also
possible
that you do have some wild variances in impedance with your current
setup.
I
took a look at the return loss of one of my antenna systems with a
tracking
generator/spectrum analyzer combination, and did see some multiple
resonance
nodes. This measurement was done, using a Narda directional coupler,
which
is flat out to 12GHz, as measured on an HP 8753E Network Analyzer.
Some sort of transfer standard such as an accurate 50 Ohm load would
verify
if your analyzer is bad.

Pete

Considering that all 3 antennas showed appropriate SWR readings on their
respective frequencies on my wattmeter with on-the-air tests, and the
analyzer showed wild SWR readings on the same frequencies, I'd say the
analyzer is at fault. Works perfectly at HF/VHF, so I basically have an
MFJ-259 in an MFJ-269 shell until they fix it.

UPS picked it up yesterday. Hopefully I will hear something within the
next
2 weeks.

I am sure that it is quite possible that your unit has a problem, but still,
a directional wattmeter is not the absolute means of measurement accuracy.
When working in an RF lab, even the Bird 43 series elements need to be
calibrated against a power meter, such as an HP 437. I wouuld still try an
accurate 50 Ohm load for characterization.
Good luck.

Pete

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
"Pete KE9OA" wrote in message
...
While it is possible that your analyzer isn't working, it is also
possible
that you do have some wild variances in impedance with your current
setup.
I
took a look at the return loss of one of my antenna systems with a
tracking
generator/spectrum analyzer combination, and did see some multiple
resonance
nodes. This measurement was done, using a Narda directional coupler,
which
is flat out to 12GHz, as measured on an HP 8753E Network Analyzer.
Some sort of transfer standard such as an accurate 50 Ohm load would
verify
if your analyzer is bad.

Pete

Considering that all 3 antennas showed appropriate SWR readings on their
respective frequencies on my wattmeter with on-the-air tests, and the
analyzer showed wild SWR readings on the same frequencies, I'd say the
analyzer is at fault. Works perfectly at HF/VHF, so I basically have an
MFJ-259 in an MFJ-269 shell until they fix it.

UPS picked it up yesterday. Hopefully I will hear something within the
next
2 weeks.

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc...

You don't mention it in your note, but are you in an area of high UHF usage?
Could it be strong signals from other nearby UHF stations who might be
influencing your readings?

The readings of 259's (I don't know about other models or other
manufacturer's analyzers) can be affected in the proximity (a few miles) to
AM (650-1650 kHz) radio stations when doing tests at 160m or even 80m.
Maybe similar effects are experienced with nearby UHF stations (Paging,
com'l comm, etc.).

good luck,

dale, kg5u

"Andy Cogswell" SHORECOGS at COMCAST DOT NET wrote in message
...
I bought an MFJ-269 from KC7SLO in September last year. When it arrived, I
tested it and found that the UHF portion did not display the correct SWR.
I
tested it with 3 different UHF antennas. It works fine everywhere else.
The
problem was that although on the air tests with the antennas all showed
them
with low SWR in the proper frequency ranges, the analyzer told me on every
one that they all had wavy SWR patterns. For example: 415mhz 1.7, 420mhz
2.5, 423mhz 1.2, 431 2.1, etc...

You don't mention it in your note, but are you in an area of high UHF usage?
Could it be strong signals from other nearby UHF stations who might be
influencing your readings?

The readings of 259's (I don't know about other models or other
manufacturer's analyzers) can be affected in the proximity (a few miles) to
AM (650-1650 kHz) radio stations when doing tests at 160m or even 80m.
Maybe similar effects are experienced with nearby UHF stations (Paging,
com'l comm, etc.).

good luck,

dale, kg5u

Your question tells me that you should be asking MFJ that question.

Only they will have the answer to what they can do and not do.

Your question tells me that you should be asking MFJ that question.

Only they will have the answer to what they can do and not do.