KD6WD Moxon Antenna Project
Building a Monoband Moxon Rectangle Antenna for HF Bands with KD6WD's Guidance
Description
This resource details the construction of a Moxon rectangle antenna, a two-element wire beam, drawing inspiration from a QST article by Allen Baker, KG4JJH, and a project group led by KD6WD. It outlines the use of AC6LA software for critical measurements (A-E) to design the antenna for specific bands like 17 meters, emphasizing the simplicity of adjusting frequency and wire size. The guide covers material selection for spreaders, such as telescoping fiberglass fishing poles, and various hub constructions, including aluminum tubing and PVC joints, with accompanying images.
The author shares practical insights from building multiple Moxons for 10, 15, 17, and 20 meters, noting consistent 1:1 SWR at design frequencies and broadbanded performance. It describes the feedpoint assembly using a 1:1 Yagi current balun and wire nuts for robust, adjustable connections. The resource also discusses element insulators made from Lucite strips and attachment methods to spreaders using plastic wire ties and duct tape, ensuring precise element spacing.
Performance observations include significant signal improvements (4-5 S units) over quad loops and a unique "DX-Vane" effect where the suspended antenna self-aligns with the strongest DX signal. The author also recounts an unsuccessful attempt at a dual-band 17/20 meter Moxon, concluding that the Moxon is inherently a monoband antenna, supported by EZNEC plots for a 17-meter design.