G8VR a small Yagi for 50 MHz
Build a compact 3-element Yagi for 50 MHz with detailed plans and gamma match.
Description
Presents detailed plans and construction notes for a compact 3-element Yagi antenna specifically designed for the 50 MHz band, authored by Ken Willis, G8VR. The article, originally published in Practical Wireless in 1989 and updated in 1999, outlines the design philosophy behind a small, gain-oriented antenna suitable for restricted QTHs. It covers element dimensions, boom length, and a unique coaxial gamma match system, emphasizing a "plumber's delight" construction approach using readily available hardware.
The resource details the author's operational experience, achieving DXCC on 50 MHz with over 110 countries worked using this antenna. It also incorporates insights from computer simulation studies by G3SEK and W1XP using MININEC, which suggested minor adjustments to element lengths and spacing for improved front-to-back ratio, increasing it from 14dB to 31dB. The author compares theoretical performance with practical results, noting that while larger arrays might offer a few dB more gain, this compact design provides excellent performance for F2 propagation and general 6-meter DXing.
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