Build the PAC-12 Antenna

The PAC-12 Antenna, a multi-band portable vertical, is meticulously detailed in this construction article by James Bennett, KA5DVS. The design emphasizes ease of homebrewing using readily available components from local hardware stores, including replaceable loading coils. It outlines the preparation of the 72-inch telescoping whip (originally from Radio Shack, with an alternate source now provided by Pacific Antenna), the construction of the loading coils from PVC risers, and the fabrication of the aluminum rod base sections. Specific instructions cover threading aluminum rod with a 1/4-20 threading die and assembling the feedpoint insulator with a BNC connector, along with recommendations for radial deployment.

KA5DVS, an avid traveler and QRP enthusiast, developed the PAC-12 to address the bulkiness of random wire setups and the limitations of commercial portable antennas like the Outbacker or SuperAntennas MP1. His goal was a lightweight, packable antenna that disassembles into 12-inch sections, achieving an assembled length of approximately 8 feet. The design strategically places the loading coil away from the base for improved efficiency. The PAC-12 notably placed first in efficiency compared to a quarter-wavelength wire vertical at the HFPack antenna shootout during the Pacificon conference in October 2001, demonstrating its practical performance for field operations. Appendix C showcases various NJQRP Club members' PAC-12 constructions, including a 20m beam made with multiple PAC-12 elements.