My intention was to go on 8m QRP FT8 today having returned from our break in Berlin. When I tried, I noticed the SWR was 3:1 (it is usually about 1.7:1), so I went QRT. Unless it is something trivial, I may need to re-do the BNC plug. The BNC on the coax to my triband V2000 also needs re-doing.
In the past, putting on BNC plugs would have been easy. Now I find it very hard. My fine motor skills are far worse.
UPDATE 1500z: By a process of elimination (dummy load, change of coax into SWR bridge), I have concluded the rig, SWR meter and coax in the shack are NOT the reason for the 3:1 SWR. This leaves just the antenna and coax. As far as I know nothing has changed since before my Berlin trip. Although I do not possess one, an antenna analyser on the BNC connection to the coax up to the 8m dipole would tell me if something is wrong with the coax or antenna. I am puzzled.
Hoepfully you'll have it repaired soon Roger. Is it a wire dipole connected to a length of coax, maybe water has got in?
ReplyDeleteIn regard to the BNC maybe you could fit PL259s then use an adapter to BNC, not ideal at UHF but won't be a problem on 40MHz.
Paul