What should be considered when selecting an accessory SWR meter?

When selecting an accessory SWR meter, it's critical to consider the frequency and power level at which measurements will be made because these factors directly influence the meter's accuracy and effectiveness for your specific application. Different SWR meters are designed to operate optimally over specific frequency ranges and must be capable of handling the power levels you intend to use. If the meter is rated for lower power levels than what your setup produces, it could become damaged or provide misleading readings. Similarly, using a meter outside its frequency range will result in inaccurate SWR measurements, which are essential for ensuring a well-matched antenna system.

While the distance of the meter from the antenna and the types of modulation are relevant considerations in antenna systems, they do not directly affect the fundamental operation of the SWR meter as much as the frequency and power level do. These factors can impact signal loss and performance but do not dictate the need for a specific SWR meter. The primary concern in choosing a meter remains its ability to accurately measure within the intended operational parameters of frequency and power.