Dual Band Wire Beam 12 and 17 m
Building a compact 12m/17m dual-band wire beam antenna with a single 50-ohm feed.
Description
Operating on the 12-meter and 17-meter WARC bands often benefits from directional antennas that offer gain and front-to-back ratio in a compact footprint. This resource details the construction of a dual-band wire beam, specifically a Moxon Rectangle design, for these two bands. It outlines the use of fiberglass tubing for spreaders, Flexweave wire for the elements, and an aluminum hub with die-cast flanges to create a robust structure. The design allows for a single 50-ohm feed point, simplifying station setup and minimizing feedline loss.
The project provides specific dimensions and material choices, enabling a homebrewer to replicate the antenna. While inspired by L.B. Cebik's (W4RNL) theoretical work, this implementation focuses on practical construction techniques for a physical build. The resulting antenna offers directional characteristics suitable for DXing and contesting on 12m and 17m, providing an alternative to full-sized Yagis or compromise verticals, particularly for those with limited space.