What transmitter reading may increase when ice forms on the antenna?

When ice forms on an antenna, the standing-wave ratio (SWR) is likely to increase. The SWR is a measure of the efficiency of power transmission from the transmitter through the antenna and is influenced by the impedance match between the antenna and the transmission line.

As ice accumulates on the antenna, it can change its physical characteristics, such as its effective length and shape. This alteration can lead to a mismatch between the impedance of the antenna and the feed line, resulting in more reflected power and, consequently, a higher SWR. A high SWR indicates that more power is being reflected back to the transmitter, which can lead to reduced efficiency and potentially cause damage to the transmitter if the SWR remains excessively high for an extended period.

Understanding the behavior of SWR in relation to physical changes in the antenna system is essential for maintaining optimal performance in radio operations, particularly under conditions where ice may accumulate.