iPortable iP60z Field SWR Antenna Analyzer

Like many others, I have been using the MFJ 259B Antenna Analyzer in the field.

I was watching an instructional video on the Buddipole website and seen the iPortable Analyzer.

So I purchased mine from Buddipole so I can also purchase some extra clips for my antenna at the same time. Same price at iPortable

 

Small video I put together

iPortable iP60z Antenna Analyzer - YouTube

 

Here is a photo just for the size comparison

I will make another in focus, but you can get a feel for the size

 

I have a friend who has the Autek and I was not as impressed with it as much, maybe because this is just so simple like me is why I like the iPortable LOL

 

I wanted to play with the analyzer so I set up my Buddipole as a VersaTee Vertical.

Once set up, including the elevated radial wire,, I just "drug" the lead up and down the coil and watched the SWR and impedance on the iP60z until it was as close as I could be to resonance. I was also using my 6 section adjustable shock cord. So I fine tuned it with the adjustable bottom section.

Now I know it is similar to just hooking up to the radio and dragging the lead for maximum noise level. After comparing the tap location with the noise level method and the iP60z I discovered it is just a coil ring or two difference.

I have the internal tuner on my KX3 so it would tune either method with no problem. Like I mentioned before, this tuner will tune a dog's tail LOL. In my mind though, if the antenna is adjusted to the best efficiency possible, then use the tuner, you would be getting the max radiated power? Correct? Every little bit is important when operating QRP. That is why I prefer set up using an analyzer. YMMV