What can cause erratic changes in SWR?

What can cause erratic changes in SWR?

• A. Loose connection in the antenna
• B. Overloaded circuit
• C. Faulty radio equipment
• D. Incorrect antenna tuning

Answer: (A)

Erratic changes in SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) can indeed be caused by a loose connection in the antenna system. When there is a loose connection, it disrupts the flow of radio frequency energy and can lead to variations in the impedance seen by the transmitter. This irregular impedance can cause fluctuations in the reflected power, which is what SWR measures. A properly functioning antenna system should have stable connections to ensure consistent impedance, allowing for efficient power transfer from the transmitter into the antenna and minimizing reflected power. Therefore, maintaining solid and secure connections throughout the antenna system is crucial for maintaining stable SWR readings. While other factors such as overloaded circuits, faulty radio equipment, or incorrect antenna tuning may lead to performance issues, they do not specifically contribute to erratic changes in SWR to the same extent as a loose connection does in the antenna system.

Erratic changes in SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) can indeed be caused by a loose connection in the antenna system. When there is a loose connection, it disrupts the flow of radio frequency energy and can lead to variations in the impedance seen by the transmitter. This irregular impedance can cause fluctuations in the reflected power, which is what SWR measures.

A properly functioning antenna system should have stable connections to ensure consistent impedance, allowing for efficient power transfer from the transmitter into the antenna and minimizing reflected power. Therefore, maintaining solid and secure connections throughout the antenna system is crucial for maintaining stable SWR readings.

While other factors such as overloaded circuits, faulty radio equipment, or incorrect antenna tuning may lead to performance issues, they do not specifically contribute to erratic changes in SWR to the same extent as a loose connection does in the antenna system.