VSWR MEASUREMENT

VSWR stands for Voltage Standing Wave Ratio. An impedance of exactly 50 Ohm can only be practically achieved at one frequency. The VSWR defines how far the impedance differs from 50 Ohm with a wide-band antenna. The power delivered from the transmitter can no longer be radiated without loss because of this incorrect compensation. Part of this power is reflected at the antenna and is returned to the transmitter. The forward and return power forms a standing wave with corresponding maximum and minimum voltages. This wave ratio defines the level of compensation of the antenna. This test is performed to make sure the cables from BTS to antenna are installed properly. Readings are taken of the whole system of antenna, jumpers and cable up to the BTS. Analyzer is used to measure the VSWR and it draws a graph taking frequency to x-axis and VSWR to y-axis. Calibration Before any reading is taken, the very first thing is to calibrate the analyzer. Analyzer is switched on and cable is connected to the port. The desired frequency range is entered (890MHz 960MHz for GSM and 1710MHz 1880MHz for DCS). To the other end of the port, the Open side of the dummy is connected and reading is taken. Then Close side and Load side of the dummy should be connected. The analyzer process data and if it gives a VSWR reading around 1 for the Load, then it is ready to take the readings. Taking Measurements Jumper cable to the BTS is removed from the BTS port and connected to the analyzer and a graph is obtained. The connectors should be welltighten; otherwise a false reading may be given. The VSWR graph should be below 1.2 for an acceptable installation. If not, the next check points going in sequence are,

Connection point of jumper and antenna cable. Replace the antenna by the dummy load at the next end jumper. Replace the jumper cable and measure. Worst case, replace the antenna cable.

Following are two graphs obtained from a VSWR test. The graph at top is one with the VSWR at an acceptable range and the bottom one is one which is not.

VSWR is at an acceptable range

VSWR is not at an acceptable range