Every FM guy should have an Analyzer.
that you can. Place the dummy load at the antenna end of the cable. The load R needs to match the cable impedance which I assume is 50 ohms. The match should be very close to unity.
Coax cable is not always what it is supposed to be and attaching connectors doesn't always go as it should.
Neil
Great advise. The dummy load should be here tonight, so it might be a long night working on this. The analyzer will be here Monday night. I used the new pig tail with the same results.
Im glad you mentioned to put the dummy at the antenna end as well. I still think the transmitter is the issue, but it is starting to get fun again trouble shooting everything. I love to trouble shoot PC issues because I know what to look foR, but this is making my brain work in ways it hasn't in a long time. After that melt down it is starting to come together. ROFL
Thank you thank you for your help!
So, it appears the problem is in the coax system somewhere. Most likely it is a problem with the connectors. I lost track but I think you mentioned PL259s. Sometimes when enough heat is applied to solder them (especially the shield) the inner insulation melts or there is a cold solder joint. The next step is to remove and reattach the connectors. Do one and if that fixes it you're done...if not then do the other one.
Neil
I agree with Friend Neil except for one (two) points. I would chop off the connectors and throw them away. Start over with new connectors. My experience re-using PL-259's has not been good.