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Details the construction and optimization of antenna systems for amateur radio satellite operations, focusing on practical, homebrew solutions for VHF/UHF bands. It covers building _groundplane antennas_ from salvaged materials, recycling old beam antennas into new configurations like a 2-meter crossed yagi, and constructing a 10-meter horizontal delta loop. The resource also explains antenna matching techniques, including folded dipole driven elements and quarter-wave transformers, along with the importance of accurate SWR measurements and minimizing coax loss. Demonstrates how to achieve a **1:1 SWR** by carefully trimming elements and adjusting radial angles on groundplane antennas. It provides insights into selecting appropriate coax and connectors, highlighting the benefits of Belden 9913 for low loss and the proper installation of _N-connectors_. The article also addresses RFI mitigation from computer birdies and presents a design for a silent triac antenna control circuit, offering practical solutions for common satellite station challenges.

This antenna was conceived mainly for high-speed digital transmission via satellite. The antenna is made of two full waves loops , mounted at right angles to each other. Then coupled together, 90 degrees out of phase over a horizontal circular reflector. With this configuration the antenna is omni directional and circularly polarized.

The antenna described in this article is for 50 MHz, but the design can be scaled for any band, including VHF, UHF, or even the higher HF bands. The antenna is nothing more than a square loop of wire, approximately 30" (or ~76cm) per side. The loop is fed in the middle of one side, and the opposite side to the feed point has a gap in it.

The structure of this dual band VHF UHF antenna is very simple. It consists of two identical square loops, whose sides measure a quarter wave, connected together at the ends. A project by I5NZR

A portable setup of the ICOM IC-705 with portable VHF UHF and and HF Alex Loop antenna, managed with a portable Raspberry PI 3 setup.