The Moxon Rectangle on 2 Meters
Adapting the Moxon rectangle for 2-meter VHF operation, including construction, performance, and application analysis.
Description
Demonstrates adapting the Moxon rectangle antenna design for 2-meter VHF operation, highlighting its unique characteristics for specific applications. It details how the antenna's small size and distinctive far-field pattern, typically associated with HF, can be effectively utilized on VHF. The resource provides modeled dimensions for three different element diameters (1/4", 1/2", 1") and discusses the necessary adjustments to maintain optimal performance, such as gap spacing and element lengths, to achieve a 50-Ohm feedpoint impedance.
The article presents predicted performance data, including gain (dBi), front-to-back ratio (dB), and feedpoint impedance (R, jX) across 144, 146, and 148 MHz. It analyzes free-space azimuth patterns and discusses the antenna's behavior when horizontally and vertically polarized over ground, including its suitability for fixed installations, repeater applications, and even satellite communications. Construction considerations, such as bending elements and maintaining critical gap distances, are also addressed.
Furthermore, the content explores advanced configurations like using two back-to-back rectangles for broader coverage and a crossed-Moxon setup for circular polarization, suggesting potential for urban communication and satellite work. The author, L. B. Cebik, W4RNL, emphasizes the Moxon's strengths in broad bandwidth, wide beamwidth, and high front-to-back ratio, rather than maximum gain.