Simple 2.4 GHz SWR Meter

This is a simple 2.4 GHz SWR meter which is based around surplus microwave hardware which can be easily found. The main component is a MECA -20/-20 dB Directional Coupler which has a frequency range of approximately 700 MHz to 2.5 GHz. This particular directional coupler has two ports, each coupled by 20 dB. What that means is, a signal is coupled to these ports which is identical to the main signal passing through the directional coupler, only it"s attenuated by 20 dB. By placing diode detectors on the outputs of these two ports and comparing the resulting voltages on an oscilloscope, you can quickly determine the integrity of your antenna system in reference to 50 ohms.