Question
Which of the following can be measured with an antenna analyzer?
Answer Options
- A) Front-to-back ratio of an antenna
- B) Power output from a transmitter
- C) Impedance of coaxial cable
- D) Gain of a directional antenna
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
An antenna analyzer is fundamentally designed to measure complex impedance (R \pm jX). Since a coaxial cable’s characteristic impedance is a key parameter (Z_0) and can be measured by looking for standing wave characteristics on a long run of line, the analyzer is perfectly capable of measuring the impedance of coaxial cable.
It can also measure the impedance presented by the antenna feed point, which is the resistance and reactance at the end of the line. The analyzer can also display SWR, which is a function of the impedance. However, measuring front-to-back ratio or antenna gain requires measuring power patterns in free space, which is beyond the capability of a simple analyzer.
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