[Boatanchors] Wattmeters

[Mark Shaum]

>The Waters would be a good one, if no problems crop up with the sensor 
>diode, which I read, is in a small oil tank in the instrument (big problem 
>to repair, which, of course >might not ever come up). It's also larger and 
>needs power. However, since I do most of my shopping on eBay, the chance of 
>refurbishment is a possibility.

> 73 de Bill K4JYS

Bill,

The Waters 334 and 334A (the A is perhaps more desirable as it raises the 
measurment limit to 1500 watts vs. 1000 for the non-A) only uses power to 
illuminate the front panel overheat bulb.  Outside of testing to make sure 
the overheat sensor and bulb work I've had no reason to keep mine powered 
during normal day to day tuneups, it just doesn't get that warm.

If you are concerned with accuracy, any of the wattmeters you have 
considered should be fine.  Just find someone with a good standard (known 
good Bird or such) to compare/calibrate against and you should be set.  I 
have an Autek WM-1 which I like very much for its dual meters (vswr and 
forward power) and peak reading capability, you might consider that product 
as well.

73! - Mark K9TR