Which watt meter should I buy?

[billys95404]

I am just getting back into HF and wasn't sure which watt meter to buy. I would like one that takes at least 2000 watts. Any input would be great. I was thinking about the old Drake WF7.
thanks,
Bill

[WA9WVX]

Hello Bill,

Apparently you've been away from the H.F. scene for quite a while. Trying to locate any Drake equipment is like finding "Hens Teeth" now a days. I think most that equipment has been bought up by collectors of the radio equipment line and if you're so lucky to find the piece of equipment, get ready to pay list price or more.

I'm supplying current manufactures of RF Wattmeters and the website links for you to compare features and prices:

RF Parts – Bird Wattmeters PEP / Average

http://www.rfparts.com/bird.html

ALPHA Wattmeters PEP / Average

http://www.alpharadioproducts.com/products.asp

LDG Wattmeters PEP / Average

http://www.w4wb.com/LDG-wattmeter-main-page.htm

MIRAGE Division of MFJ PEP / Average

http://www.mirageamp.com/Product.php?productid=MP-1

Martin RF Supply – Coaxial Dynamics – Peak / Average

http://www.chuckmartin.com/shop/index.php?shop=1&cat=24

Martin RF Supply – Daiwa – Peak / Average

http://www.chuckmartin.com/shop/?shop=1 ... 51&cat=31&

These should get you started evaluating the RF Wattmeters that are available for H.F. usage. But if you should find a Drake W7 by all means grab it and get a P.E.P. modification kit for reading the SSB Power Output Level.

73,

Dan
WA9WVX