MFJ-259 Instruction Manual
HF/VHF SWR Analyzer
1
MFJ-259 HF/VHF SWR ANALYZER
INTRODUCTION
The MFJ-259 SWR Analyzer is an easy to operate, versatile test instrument for analyzing
nearly any 50 ohm RF system on frequencies between 1.8 and 170 MHz. In addition the MFJ-
259 can be used as signal source and as an accurate frequency counter.
The MFJ-259 combines four basic circuits; a wide range oscillator, a frequency counter, a 50
ohm RF bridge, and a calibrated bridge unbalance indicator. This combination of circuits
allows measurement of the SWR (referenced to 50 ohms) of any load connected to the
ANTENNA connector. The MFJ-259 FREQUENCY switch selects the following frequency
ranges:
1.8 - 4 MHz
4 - 10 MHz
10 - 26.2 MHz
26.2 - 62.5 MHz
62.5 - 113 MHz
113 - 170 MHz
The MFJ-259 can be used to adjust or measure the following:
Antennas:
SWR, resonant frequency, bandwidth, efficiency
Antenna tuners:
SWR, frequency
Amplifiers:
Input and output networks
Coaxial transmission lines: SWR, velocity factor, losses, resonance
Balanced transmission lines: Impedance, velocity factor, resonance
Matching or tuning stubs:
SWR, resonant frequency, bandwidth
Traps:
Resonant
frequency
Tuned Circuits:
Resonant frequency
Small capacitors:
Value
RF chokes and inductors:
Self resonance, series resonance, value
Transmitters and oscillators: Frequency
The MFJ-259 is also portable. It can be used with either an external low voltage supply, such
the MFJ-1312B AC adapter or with internal AA battery packs.
WARNING:
Please read this manual thoroughly before using this instrument. Failure to
follow the operating instructions may cause false readings or even damage this
unit.