The pocket-sized RF5 is designed to check and adjust antennas, feedlines,
and RF networks. It includes a microprocessor, A/D converters, and a
low-power "transmitter" with 4 digit frequency readout.
The RF5 goes beyond the frequency range of the RF1 to cover all
remaining ham bands to the 440 MHz band beyond, plus most
frequencies in between. Frequency coverage is 35 to 75 MHz and 138 to
500+ Mhz continuously . This is in three bands
of approximately 35-75, 138-290, and 275-500 MHz.
It measures RF values of true impedance (0-600 ohms), SWR (1 to 6:1).
(Available on special order
for an extra $20 is continuous coverage of 70 to 500 MHz in 3 bands, but
no coverage below 70 Mhz.
For example, RF5's with this coverage are currently used by the FAA to
adjust airport antennas.)
As with all analysts, the
RF5 has a standard UHF coax connector. The screw you see near the
coax connector is an alternate coax ground connection, or could be
used to attach a safety cord.
(You must obtain an adaptor
if you need to use N connectors. Sorry, we do not have adaptors, or
have a model with N connectors.)
The unit is tuned up or down in frequency by holding down the "UP"
or "DOWN" buttons, and with a fine tuning knob.
In addition the RF5 includes an INSTANT SWR mode
which finds the frquency of lowest SWR or Z automatically.
Simply hold down the UP/DOWN buttons together. The RF5
microprocessor scans across the entire band and finds the lowest SWR
in about 5 seconds, then tunes the unit to this frequency. If "Z" is
selected , it finds the lowest Z.
The RF5 is truly pocket size. 4.5 x 2.5 x 1.5 in. The battery pack
on other units is
actually larger than the entire RF5! The RF5 runs off a
single 9 volt battery in a real battery compartment on the
back with a pushoff cover...similar to a TV remote control.A
standard 9 V alkaline battery has a life of about 5 hours,
and can be replaced in seconds. In addition, the unit turns
itself off after about 20 minutes if no buttons are pushed.
(The auto-off feuture can be disabled if desired.)
All parameters are read
out digitally for highest accuracy.
The RF5 is extremely easy to use. Its large 1/2" LCD display is not washed
out in sunlight..it loves sunlight. And it can cycle between several
measured values so you can watch them together.
The illustrated instruction manual discusses many applications in
detail, not just instrument operation. Whether you're an expert or
novice, the manual will show you many of the things you can do
with the unit.
Besides its use by Amateur Radio operators, this unit is in use all over
the world at antenna manufacturers, production lines, and laboratories.
Click here for more discussion of applications
The pocket-sized RF5 is designed to check and adjust antennas, feedlines,
and RF networks. It includes a microprocessor, A/D converters, and a
low-power "transmitter" with 4 digit frequency readout.