Mcbazel SW-102HF

Mcbazel Surecom SW-102HF V.S.W.R. & Power Meter User Manual

Model: SW-102HF | Brand: Mcbazel

1. Introduction

The Surecom SW-102HF is a compact and precise V.S.W.R. (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) and Power Meter designed for High Frequency (HF) applications. This device provides direct digital readouts of forward power, reflected power, and SWR without requiring calibration. It is specifically engineered for the 1.5-70MHz frequency range and is not compatible with VHF/UHF frequencies.

Key features include a maximum measurable power range of up to 120W (intermittent use), low insertion loss (0.3 dB or less), and a comprehensive display showing SWR, forward power, reverse power, and battery level. The meter supports measurements for CW, AM, and FM modes only; it does not measure RTTY or SSB.

2. Product Overview

Surecom SW-102HF V.S.W.R. and Power Meter with USB charger and cable

Figure 2.1: Surecom SW-102HF V.S.W.R. and Power Meter with included USB charging cable and power adapter.

2.1 Front Panel Controls and Display

Front view of Surecom SW-102HF showing display, power button, and navigation buttons

Figure 2.2: Front panel of the SW-102HF, indicating the display, Power/Enter button, and Up/Down navigation buttons.

  • Display Screen: Shows SWR, Forward Power (FW), Reverse Power (RW), Transmit Efficiency, Frequency Range, and Battery Level.
  • POWER / ENTER Button (Red): Press to power on/off. In menu, press to confirm selection.
  • DOWN / - Button (Blue): Used to navigate down in menus or decrease values.
  • UP / + Button (Yellow): Used to navigate up in menus or increase values.

2.2 Side and Rear Connections

Detailed view of Surecom SW-102HF showing TX and ANT ports, Micro USB charging port, and ground connection

Figure 2.3: Detailed view of the SW-102HF showing the TX (transmitter) and ANT (antenna/dummy load) ports, Micro USB charging port, and ground connection.

  • TX Port (SO239 / SL16 Socket): Connects to your radio transmitter.
  • ANT Port (SO239 / SL16 Socket): Connects to your antenna or dummy load.
  • +5V Micro USB Port: For charging the internal battery.
  • Charge LED: Indicates charging status.
  • Ground Connection: For external grounding if required.

3. Setup

3.1 Charging the Device

Before initial use, fully charge the SW-102HF. Connect the provided USB charging cable to the Micro USB port on the side of the device and plug the other end into a 5V USB power adapter. The Charge LED will indicate charging status. A full charge ensures optimal performance and battery life.

3.2 Connecting the Meter

Top view of Surecom SW-102HF showing TX and ANT ports clearly labeled

Figure 3.1: Top view of the SW-102HF showing the TX and ANT ports.

  1. Connect your radio transmitter's output to the TX port on the SW-102HF using a suitable coaxial cable.
  2. Connect your antenna or a dummy load to the ANT port on the SW-102HF using a suitable coaxial cable.
  3. Ensure all connections are secure to prevent inaccurate readings or damage.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Powering On/Off

  • To power on, press and hold the POWER / ENTER (Red) button for a few seconds until the display illuminates.
  • To power off, press and hold the POWER / ENTER (Red) button again until the display turns off.

4.2 Basic Measurements

Once powered on and connected, the device will display real-time measurements. Transmit a signal from your radio to observe the following values:

  • SWR: Standing Wave Ratio. An ideal SWR is 1.00.
  • FW Power (W): Forward Power in Watts.
  • RW Power (W): Reverse Power in Watts.
  • Trans. Efficiency (%): Transmission Efficiency.
  • Frequency Range: The operating frequency range (1.5-70MHz).
  • Battery Level: Current battery charge status.

4.3 Menu Navigation

Surecom SW-102HF display showing menu options for LightOff, PwrOff, and Adjust Power

Figure 4.1: Menu display of the SW-102HF.

To access the menu, press and hold the POWER / ENTER (Red) button briefly while the device is on. Use the UP / + (Yellow) and DOWN / - (Blue) buttons to navigate through the options. Press POWER / ENTER to select an option or confirm a setting.

  • LightOff(m): Adjusts the backlight timeout in minutes.
  • PwrOff(0-9m): Sets the automatic power-off time in minutes (0 for disabled).
  • Adjust Power: Allows for power calibration if necessary. Refer to advanced user guides for detailed calibration procedures.

4.4 Supported Modulation Modes

The SW-102HF V.S.W.R. & Power Meter is designed to accurately measure power and SWR for signals modulated in CW (Continuous Wave), AM (Amplitude Modulation), and FM (Frequency Modulation). It is important to note that this device cannot accurately measure RTTY (Radio Teletype) or SSB (Single Sideband) signals due to their complex modulation characteristics.

4.5 Instructional Video

Video 4.1: This video demonstrates the basic operation and usage of the power meter, including connections and reading measurements.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning

To maintain the device's appearance and functionality, wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the casing or display.

5.2 Battery Care

The SW-102HF features a built-in 3.7V Li-ion battery. For optimal battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. Recharge the device when the battery level is low. If storing the device for an extended period, ensure it is partially charged (around 50%) and recharge it every few months to prevent deep discharge.

5.3 Storage

Store the meter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. Protect it from physical shocks and vibrations. Keep the port covers (if any) in place to prevent dust and debris from entering the connectors.

6. Troubleshooting

  • No Power/Display:
    • Ensure the device is charged. Connect it to a 5V USB power source.
    • Press and hold the POWER / ENTER button for a few seconds to power on.
  • Inaccurate Readings:
    • Verify all coaxial cable connections are secure and correct (TX to transmitter, ANT to antenna/dummy load).
    • Confirm that your operating frequency is within the 1.5-70MHz range. This meter is not for VHF/UHF.
    • Ensure your radio's modulation mode is CW, AM, or FM. RTTY and SSB measurements are not supported.
    • Check if the power output from your transmitter is within the meter's measurable range (up to 120W intermittent).
  • Device Unresponsive:
    • Try resetting the device by powering it off and on again.
    • Ensure the battery is adequately charged.

7. Specifications

FeatureSpecification
BrandMcbazel (Surecom)
ModelSW-102HF
Frequency Range1.5 - 70 MHz
Power Measurement Range0.5W - 120W (intermittent use)
SWR Measurement Range1.00 : 1 - 19.9 : 1
Insertion LossLess than 0.3 dB
Impedance50 Ω
Measurement TypeElectrical (SWR, FW Power, RW Power, Battery Level)
Supported ModesCW, AM, FM (RTTY and SSB not supported)
Power SourceBuilt-in 3.7V Li-ion Battery
Charging Port+5V Micro USB
Automatic ShutdownAdjustable (0-9 minutes)
Operating Temperature0℃ - 60℃
Dimensions66 x 68 x 37 mm (approx. 2.6 x 2.7 x 1.5 inches)
Item Weight220 g (including battery)
Connectivity TechnologyUSB
Specification MetCE, NIST

8. Warranty Information

Specific warranty details for the Surecom SW-102HF V.S.W.R. & Power Meter are typically provided by the retailer or manufacturer at the time of purchase. Please refer to your purchase documentation or contact your point of sale for information regarding warranty coverage, terms, and conditions.

9. Support Information

For technical assistance, product inquiries, or support related to the Surecom SW-102HF, please contact the retailer from whom you purchased the device. You may also visit the official Mcbazel website for additional resources or contact information if available.

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