Amateur radio
200W PL‑259 UHF Dummy Load — DC to 1 GHz, 50Ω
Product description
Power handling: rated for 200 watts average (continuous) dissipation, intended for routine transmitter checks and non-radiating load tests.
Impedance and frequency: nominal 50 Ω impedance across DC up to 1.0 GHz, with a typical VSWR of 1.2 or less under normal operating conditions.
Connector and mechanical: fitted with a UHF male (PL‑259) connector for direct hookup to many HF and CB transceivers. The unit is housed in a ventilated metal enclosure with an internal resistive element and heat-dissipating construction. Typical external size is roughly palm‑sized — about 110 x 75 x 50 mm (4.3 x 3.0 x 2.0 in) — and it is light enough for bench use but substantial enough to remain stationary in the shack.
What’s included and use: the package contains the dummy load itself, foam packing for protection, and basic user guidance for safe operation. Use it to terminate transmitters during testing, to verify coax or feed-line continuity, or for tuning and SWR checks; adapters can extend compatibility to other connector types.
Pros
- High 200W continuous rating for common tests
- Wide frequency coverage up to 1 GHz with low VSWR
- Sturdy metal housing and protective packaging
Cons
- PL‑259 connector limits direct use with N-type or lab setups
- Relatively bulky compared with pocket loads
- Occasional quality-control failures reported
VerdictThis dummy load delivers a solid, affordable option for bench and shack use: 200 W average continuous dissipation, 50 Ω impedance and performance to 1 GHz with a VSWR at or below 1.2. The PL‑259 outlet makes it immediately compatible with common HF/CB gear but may require adapters for lab-grade setups or N-type systems. Build quality is generally good and packaging protects the unit for storage, t
Reader reviews
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Pascal Vallet 3/5
Good but very large
Works fine though not exactly 50 Ω on my check. The casing is bulky—better for a fixed shack bench than carrying to repeater sites.
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Bill50 5/5
Solid build and useful for line checks
Good construction. Measured about 52 Ω on my meter, within spec. Helped me trace and verify some coax runs. Comes with PL‑259, so keep adapters handy. Well packaged—styrofoam is reusable for storage.
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Bobby Rowe 5/5
Looks well made
Haven’t tested it yet, but the unit appears to be solidly built.
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walter lurz 5/5
Performs as expected
No issues so far. Functions properly and seems well made.
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Misfit 1/5
Faulty units for me
Initial reading was ~54 Ω. Under a 150 W two‑tone test the SWR went to infinity and resistance spiked. Exchanged for another with the same failure, then returned it. Bought a different model that has handled 200 W reliably.
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Richard Wilimek 5/5
Arrived intact and works
Well packaged at delivery. Performs fine and looks like quality materials were used.
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Bruce 5/5
Good quality unit
Quality seems good and it works as intended.
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Cornelius 4/5
Better than I expected for shack use
Exceeded my expectations for everyday shack work up to 1 GHz. The PL‑259 is practical for HF/CB but less ideal for laboratory or >50 MHz use; an N‑type would be preferred. Good value compared with pricier lab loads.
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