Moxon beam for 144 Mhz
Building a compact 2-meter Moxon beam for portable QRP operations on 144 MHz.
Description
A 2-meter Moxon beam antenna, designed for the 144 MHz band, is detailed, originating from a desire to participate in the PW 2m QRP contest. The design, based on a Moxon Rectangle, offers a compact directional solution for VHF portable operations. The author, G0KYA, constructed the antenna using readily available materials like 15mm plastic conduit for the frame and 1.5mm copper wire for the elements.
Initial testing with an MFJ-259B antenna analyzer showed a 1.2:1 SWR at 144.300 MHz, indicating good resonance. The antenna's compact size, approximately 70cm x 40cm, makes it highly suitable for portable QRP work, providing a significant advantage over an omnidirectional vertical. The project includes practical advice on element spacing and construction techniques, emphasizing ease of assembly for field deployment.
Field results from a local hilltop demonstrated the Moxon's directional characteristics, allowing for effective nulling of local noise and improved signal reception from specific directions.