160-RV - Top Band G5RV Antenna
Adapting a G5RV for 160 Meters with a Simple Matching Section
Description
Demonstrates a practical modification to convert a standard G5RV antenna into a 160-RV for effective operation on the 160-meter band. This project addresses the challenge of achieving Top Band resonance with a common multi-band wire antenna, providing a solution for hams with limited space or resources for dedicated 160m antennas. The design utilizes a specific length of 450-ohm ladder line and a 1:1 current balun, acting as a matching section to bring the G5RV's impedance into a usable range for 1.8 MHz.
The document includes a parts list, detailed construction steps, and tuning instructions, emphasizing the importance of precise measurements for the ladder line and coaxial cable sections. It also outlines the expected SWR characteristics and power handling capabilities, making it suitable for QRO operation up to 1.5 kW. The AD1B design offers a straightforward approach for extending the utility of an existing G5RV.