Surecom SW-102

Surecom SW-102 Digital VHF/UHF Antenna Power & SWR Meter User Manual

Model: SW-102

1. Introduction

The Surecom SW-102 is a compact and versatile digital VHF/UHF antenna power and SWR meter designed for radio enthusiasts and professionals. It provides direct digital readout of VSWR, forward power, and reflected power without the need for calibration. Its low insertion loss allows for permanent connection within your setup. The device also features a built-in frequency counter and displays comprehensive information including frequency, power, SWR, forward power (FW), reflected power (RW), and battery voltage.

2. Safety Information

  • Do not expose the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
  • Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to severe impacts.
  • Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device. This will void the warranty and may cause damage.
  • Use only the specified charger (5V micro USB) to prevent damage to the battery and device.
  • Ensure proper connection of all cables and adapters before operation to prevent damage to the meter or connected equipment.
  • This device is designed for analog radio systems only and is not compatible with DMR radios.

3. Package Contents

Upon opening the package, please verify that all items listed below are present and in good condition:

  • 1x SURECOM SW-102 Meter
  • 1x Charger Cable (Micro USB)
  • 1x Users Manual
  • SL16 to SMA-F Connector (included)
  • SL16 to SMA-M Connector (included)
Standard package contents of Surecom SW-102 SWR meter
Figure 3.1: Standard package contents for the SW-102-N, including the meter, USB adaptor, USB cable, SL16 to SMA-F, SL16 to SMA-M connectors, and the user manual.

4. Product Overview

4.1. Key Features

  • Direct digital readout of VSWR, Forward Power, and Reflected Power.
  • No calibration required.
  • Maximum measurable power range up to 120W.
  • Low insertion loss (<0.15dB VHF, <0.25dB UHF) allows permanent connection.
  • Built-in Frequency Counter.
  • All-function display: Frequency, Power, SWR, FW, RW, Battery voltage.
  • Compact and handheld size with large LCD display.

4.2. Components and Controls

Front view of Surecom SW-102 SWR meter
Figure 4.1: Front view of the Surecom SW-102 SWR meter showing the display and control buttons.
Handheld size of Surecom SW-102 SWR meter
Figure 4.2: The compact, handheld size of the SW-102 SWR meter with its large LCD display.
Basic function diagram of Surecom SW-102
Figure 4.3: Diagram illustrating the basic functions and port labels of the SW-102 SWR meter, including power, SWR meter, USB charger port, and function keys.

The SW-102 features an N-J Interface for connections. Optional accessories such as SL16 to SMA and SL16 to BNC adapters are available to ensure compatibility with various radio and antenna connectors.

Various connector types compatible with Surecom SW-102
Figure 4.4: Various connector types (SMA-F, SMA-M, M, F) compatible with the SW-102 SWR meter, highlighting its versatility.

5. Setup

5.1. Connecting the Meter

To connect the Surecom SW-102, connect the output of your transceiver to the "TX" port on the meter. Then, connect your antenna or dummy load to the "ANT" port. Ensure proper adapters or cables are used if your device has different connector types. The device ships with SL16 to SMA-F and SL16 to SMA-M connectors for common applications.

Watch the video below for a visual guide on connecting the SW-102 to your radio and antenna:

Video 5.1: Demonstration of unboxing, physical overview, and connecting the Surecom SW-102 to a radio and antenna for SWR measurement.

5.2. Powering On

To power on the SW-102, press and hold the Red button for 2 seconds. To power off, press and hold the Red button again for 2 seconds.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1. Taking Measurements

Once connected and powered on, the SW-102 will display real-time measurements. To measure SWR and power, ensure the meter is in a vertical position and avoid touching the antenna during measurement. Press the PTT (Push-To-Talk) button on your radio to transmit, and the meter will display the VSWR, transmit power, and other relevant data.

The Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) is an indication of the amount of mismatch between an antenna and the feed line connecting to it. The range of values for VSWR is from 1 to ∞. A VSWR value under 2 is considered suitable for most antenna applications. The antenna can be described as having a good match. So when someone says that the antenna is poorly matched, very often it means that the VSWR value exceeds 2 for a frequency of interest.

Video 6.1: Demonstration of taking SWR measurements with the Surecom SW-102, including proper positioning and interpreting the display.

6.2. Display Introduction

The LCD display provides comprehensive information at a glance. Key indicators include:

  • Battery Status
  • Working Time
  • Transmit Power (W)
  • Transmit Frequency (MHz)
  • VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio)
  • Forward Power (FW)
  • Reflected Power (RW)

Video 6.2: Detailed introduction to the Surecom SW-102's display, explaining each parameter and its significance.

6.3. Function Memory Save

To save function memory settings:

  1. Press the MENU (Blue button).
  2. Press F1 (Red button) to select a function (1-6).
  3. Adjust values using the Blue button (-) and Yellow button (+).
  4. Press the Red button for 2 seconds to confirm.
  5. Press the Blue button to SAVE and EXIT.

7. Maintenance

7.1. Charging the Battery

The SW-102 is equipped with a 3.7V Li-ion rechargeable battery (14500 type). To charge the device, connect the provided USB charger cable to the micro USB port on the side of the meter and plug the other end into a 5V (0.5-1A) USB power source.

Surecom SW-102 being charged via USB
Figure 7.1: The SW-102 SWR meter being charged via its convenient USB port (5V, 0.5-1A input).

Video 7.1: Instructions on how to charge the Surecom SW-102 using the provided USB cable.

7.2. Power Saving Features

  • The device features an Auto Power Off function, configurable from 1 to 9 minutes.
  • The Backlight also has an AUTO OFF feature, configurable from 1 to 9 minutes, to conserve battery life.

8. Troubleshooting

  • If the device does not power on, ensure the battery is charged.
  • If readings are inconsistent, check all cable connections for tightness and proper adapter usage.
  • Ensure the SW-102 is used with analog radios only. It is not compatible with DMR radios.
  • For significant discrepancies in SWR readings, verify the antenna's condition and proper installation.

9. Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Frequency Range100 - 520MHz
Measurable Power Range0 - 120W
Maximum Power Input120W
Accuracy+/- 5%
VSWR Range1.00 ~ 19.9
Impedance50Ω
Insertion Loss (VHF)<0.15dB
Insertion Loss (UHF)<0.25dB
Operating Temperature0℃ ~ 60℃
Input Frequency CounterYes
Battery Voltage DisplayYes
Battery Type3.7V Li-ion Rechargeable Battery (14500)
Auto Power Off1-9 minutes (configurable)
Charger Input5V (micro USB)
Backlight Auto Off1-9 minutes (configurable)
Interface (In and Out)N (SL16)
Size66*68*37 (mm)
Weight220g
Item Weight13.4 ounces
Package Dimensions7.76 x 5.43 x 1.81 inches

10. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information and detailed support contacts are not provided in this manual. Please refer to the product packaging or the manufacturer's official website for warranty details and customer support options.

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