A dipmeter measures the resonant frequency of radio circuits and can be called a grid dip oscillator or meter. It works by collecting electromagnetic information with a coil and displaying it on a screen. Dipmeters have various applications, including determining the appropriate length and inductance level of coaxial cables and measuring transmit frequencies for radio amateurs. They can also be used as signal generators for tuning or adjusting radio equipment.
A dipmeter is a device used to measure the resonant frequency of radio circuits. More specifically, it measures how much absorption is present in a high frequency circuit coupled with the effects of any nearby magnetic fields. The device also goes by other names, including “grid dip oscillator” (GDO) and “grid dip meter”.
The dipmeter is a device known as an oscillator. Oscillators create an electronic signal that is repetitive in nature. When in the presence of a circuit – and, in the case of a dipmeter, a radio circuit – the signal changes to reflect the information gathered. The recording of the electronic signal is called a dipmeter log, and changes to the signal are how information is gathered and interpreted.
A coil on top of the unit allows the dipmeter to measure resonant frequency. When placed near the circuit, the coil begins to collect electromagnetic information, which it then displays on its screen. Placing the coil too close to or directly on a circuit board or any nearby metal object can distort displayed results and potentially damage the device.
Dipmeters work in different ways depending on the specifics of the device model being used. Some base units have built-in knobs that allow the user to tune the generated frequency and a real-time meter that allows users to see the information being received. The instrument contains a needle which adjusts its position according to the resonant frequency being measured. Other units are more complicated and can connect directly to a computer and send results using associated software.
Dipmeter devices have a wide variety of applications in a number of different fields. For example, dipmeters can be used during the production of coaxial cables used to transmit data. A dipmeter can be used to determine the appropriate length of a coaxial cable, as well as measure its appropriate inductance level. Dipmeters are also used extensively by radio amateurs to measure transmit frequencies.
Dipmeters can also be used by radio amateurs as rudimentary signal generators. Instead of analyzing an existing frequency, the dipmeter can create its own. This may be necessary if a person is trying to tune or adjust radio equipment and needs a strong, constant signal by which to make calculations or adjustments.
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