Testing antennas with WSPR

There are many ways to test HF antennas, ranging from simulation to various analyzers and antenna bridges. However, there is no substitute for simply using the antenna to see how it works. Just like - supposedly - the bumblebee cannot fly, but it does anyway, it is possible to load bed springs and make contacts. But it was difficult - although fun - to gather a lot of empirical data on antenna performance. Now you can do it all with WSPR and [TechMinds] suggests a moderately priced dedicated WSPR transmitter to do the job. You can see a video of the results of this technique below.

Although WSPR is often cited as taking the fun out of amateur radio, it is perfect for this application. Connect the transmitter and a few hours later visit a webpage and find out where you were heard by an objective observer. If you had a few, you could even examine several antennas at similar times and under similar conditions.

The transmitter has its own GPS, so it doesn't require much setup. You need to define the frequencies you want to use and - presumably - the SWR at those frequencies of your antenna will be acceptable. Of course, you also need to set your call sign and transmission schedule. You can manually set the location code if you don't want to get GPS setting.

Once configured, you do not need to connect the computer. After a while, you can just visit the WSPR.org website and see who could hear the little low-power transmitter.

Of course, you don't need a dedicated tag for this. Use your normal radio or create your own beacon. If you want an encore on WSPR, [Dan Maloney's] $50 ham has you covered.