Description
Simpson 498-A TV Field Strength Meter UHF VHF Microvolts Vintage Analog
The Simpson 498-A is a portable analog TV field strength meter designed to measure UHF and VHF television signal levels in microvolts. It features a large analog meter movement with a microvolts field strength scale and a secondary battery voltage scale, along with a set of front-panel rotary controls for channel selection, signal level ranging, channel calibration, and power/battery charging mode. Separate UHF and VHF antenna input terminals are provided on the front panel. The unit is housed in a metal carry case with a top handle for field portability.
Specifications & What's Included
- Manufacturer: Simpson Electric Co., Chicago, IL
- Model: 498-A
- Type: TV Field Strength Meter
- Frequency bands: UHF and VHF
- Meter scale: Field Strength in Microvolts; secondary Battery Voltage scale
- Front-panel controls: Channel selector, Signal Level–Microvolts range knob, Channel Calibration knob, Power/Battery-Charge selector
- Antenna inputs: UHF input terminals (front), VHF input terminals (front)
- Rear panel: Phones (headphone) output jack, 0.5 Amp fuse, 5 Amp fuse, 6 VDC external input
- AC power: 117V AC input via rear panel; AC power cord included
- Power options: AC mains or self-contained wet battery (battery not included)
- Form factor: Portable bench instrument — metal case with top carry handle
- Country of manufacture: USA
- Includes: AC power cord
Applications
The Simpson 498-A was used by television broadcast engineers, cable TV technicians, antenna installers, and field service personnel to measure the signal strength of UHF and VHF television broadcast signals at the antenna or at distribution points in a cable or master antenna TV (MATV) system. Field strength meters of this type were essential tools during the era of over-the-air analog broadcast television in the United States, roughly the 1950s through the 1980s and into the 1990s, when technicians needed to verify signal levels at antenna mast height, trace signal loss through coaxial distribution systems, and align directional antennas for maximum reception. The 498-A's portability — battery or AC powered, with a sturdy carry handle — made it well suited for rooftop and tower work. Today, units like this are sought by vintage electronics collectors, broadcast history enthusiasts, and technicians who work on legacy MATV or analog cable TV systems.
This Simpson 498-A TV Field Strength Meter is in used condition and shows its age. The metal cabinet has moderate to heavy cosmetic wear throughout — the rear panel and sides show significant paint loss, surface rust, and general weathering consistent with decades of field or shop use. The front panel is in better shape, with the Simpson logo, model label, and all knobs and controls intact and visually complete. The analog meter face is present and legible. The unit includes its AC power cord. It has not been powered up or tested at our facility, but it appears to be a complete, intact instrument that was in prior service use. Please review all photos carefully and contact us with any questions before purchasing.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
Simpson |
Model: |
498-A |
MPN: |
498-A |
Type: |
TV Field Strength Meter |
SKU: |
47584 |
Frequency Bands: |
UHF, VHF |
Measurement Type: |
Field Strength (Microvolts) |
Display Type: |
Analog Meter |
Input: |
UHF and VHF antenna inputs, 6 VDC input |
Fuse: |
0.5 Amp and 5 Amp |
Power: |
117V AC (power cord included); 6 VDC input |
Audio Output: |
Phones (headphone) jack on rear panel |
Form Factor: |
Portable / Bench — metal case with carry handle |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
United States |
Seller Notes: |
Includes AC power cord. No additional accessories. |
Condition Notes: |
This Simpson 498-A TV Field Strength Meter shows moderate to heavy cosmetic wear — paint loss and surface rust on the rear and sides. Front panel, controls, meter face, and knobs appear intact. Includes AC power cord. Not tested at our facility. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |