[Boatanchors] Wattmeters

[Bill Stewart]

Hi Mark,
Thanks for more watt meter info. Actually, I doubt if I would ever test anything much over 200 watts. I am primarily interested in checking the outputs of some of my low power boatanchors which are generally novice/entry level xmtrs. Also, I really doubt that I would reach the 'over heat' point. So, the Waters type instrument would not need any power for my application...which moves it up a few points in the 2nd place position. And to make it simpler, I don't really need the swr function..just interested in output power into a 50 ohm load. 5% accuracy is plenty for me. I'm not gonna quibble over a few watts either way.  

Tnx again to all who responded...very helpful info.
73, Bill K4JYS
  
----- Original Message -----
From: "Mark Shaum" <k9tr at btsnetworks.net>
To: boatanchors at mailman.qth.net
Sent: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 6:52:18 AM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern
Subject: Re: [Boatanchors] Wattmeters

>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


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