MEASURING FIELD STRENGTH
Your meter can measure the low levels of radio frequency (RF) generated by a radio transmitter. You can use these measure- ments to map the transmitting direction and coverage pattern of your antenna, or to compare your radio and antenna’s effi- ciency before and after an adjustment. You do not need to con- nect the meter to the antenna or the radio to measure field strength.
It takes two people to measure field strength. For an accurate measurement, you will need to map the site around your anten- na. Then, while someone presses the radio’s transmit key, you will need to walk around the site around your antenna with the meter, marking the readings you see.
Hints:
•In addition to the meter, we recommend you use the fol- lowing items to help you measure field strength:
—Several photocopies of the template on Page 11
—36 objects such as rocks or weighted pieces of paper
—25 feet of rope or strong cord
—Calculator
—Pencil
—Compass
•Make sure there is at least 25 feet of open space in all directions around your antenna.
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