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How to Read a Bird 43 Wattmeter

The Bird 43 wattmeter measures radio frequency (RF) power in 50 ohm coaxial transmission lines. It can be used with continuous wave (CW), TV, FM, and AM modulation but not pulse modulation. Wattmeters are used by many HAM radio operators to measure the amount of power running to and from their equipment. Bird Technologies Group has been producing RF power measuring products for for more than six decades. In addition to wattmeters, Bird produces analyzers, antennas, components, signal boosters, as well as other power monitors.

Things You'll Need

Bird 43 Wattmeter

Instructions

- 1
  Connect the plug-in element (AKA "slug") which matches the frequency range of your device to the wattmeter. This ensures an accurate reading. Make sure the power is off before connecting the wattmeter.
- 2
  Turn the arrow on the element towards the load to measure forward power.
- 3
  Turn on the RF power source and note the reading. Turn the power back off.
- 4
  Turn the arrow on the element towards the transmitter, turn the power on and note the reflected power measurement.
- 5
  Refer to the Voltage Standing Wave Ration (VSWR) conversion graph, included with your Bird wattmeter. You will find your VSWR on the graph by locating the readings taken from the forward and reflected power.

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