Dan, here's my 0.02 worth RE nanoVNA versus antenna analyzers:
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One is an open source "vector network analyzer" that is continually open to updates and fixes and experimentation. It requires close attention to calibration, menu selection, cable choice and adapters to connect to your "device under test." Unless you connect it to an external computer (notebook or laptop usually), even the 4" version might be considered a little hard to read and you must pay attention to what values you are reading. If you can read small Smith Charts and they are what you need, then a VNA is your choice. The nanoVNA is essentially a hobbyist/experimenter device. More professional equipment in the same family costs more and offers more to professional users. The other is an all-in-one box capable of high-levels of precision (still not "top-of-the-line, but up there). You connect your antenna and read the results with little difficulty or fiddling. They are antenna-centric, ready-to-go instruments. Is the more expensive antenna analyzer worth so many $$ more than the nanoVNA? It is almost an apple-orange thing - you have to decide what you need and how you will be using it. Personally, a nanoVNA would not be my first purchase if measuring and adjusting antennas is what is needed. I have one 2.8" and one 4" nano, but when I'm going to an antenna site (at least for now) I'm taking my MFJ analyzer and (because I'm and belt and suspenders person) my Bird Wattmeter. (Or maybe just the Bird, because they are that good.) If you are purchasing for the purpose of checking and adjusting/building antennas, you have your answer. If you want to fool around with neat tech, by all means go small. :-) Frankly, cost should be your last consideration. Cheers, Ed H. KT4ED On 5/11/2020 1:06 PM, Dan Gilliam via groups.io wrote:
I am preparing to purchase my first antenna analyzer product. I have an old MFJ-209 which has neither meters nor frequency readout. I love to build antennas, especially for my ham club. |