Ham Radio General Class Practice Test

Which of the following must be connected to an antenna analyzer when it is being used for SWR measurements?

1. Receiver

2. Transmitter

3. Antenna and feed line

4. All of these choices are correct

The correct answer is: Antenna and feed line

When using an antenna analyzer for standing wave ratio (SWR) measurements, it's crucial that the device is connected to the antenna and feed line. This is because the primary function of an antenna analyzer is to assess how well the antenna radiates energy and to determine the efficiency of the feed line in delivering RF signals to the antenna. The SWR measurement reflects how much power is being reflected back from the antenna due to impedance mismatches. Therefore, connecting the antenna and feed line provides the necessary context for the analyzer to evaluate these parameters accurately. In contrast, while a receiver or transmitter might be involved in the overall operation of the radio setup, they are not essential for the SWR measurements themselves. The analyzer can independently assess the conditions of the antenna system without needing these components connected. This distinction is what makes the requirement to connect only the antenna and feed line the correct answer.