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Metro Vector Network Analyzer is a custom antenna analyzer designed and produced by IZ7LDG.

Website for radio Amateurs in the Hastings, Peterborough, and Northumberland Counties of East Central Ontario, Canada. Propagation information as well as antenna designs and home brew projects and Club News. Many links to Amateur Radio information

C-Poles for 20m and 6m, it is a folded half-wave dipole with an asymmetrical tapped 50-Ohm-point in the lower part of the antenna. Design hints by DK7ZB

Protecting amateur radio equipment from transient overvoltages requires robust lightning and surge protection, which is the focus of Electronic Specialty Products. The company provides various devices, including coaxial lightning arrestors for antenna feedlines and surge protectors for AC power lines and data circuits. These devices are engineered to divert high-energy surges, such as those caused by direct or indirect lightning strikes, away from sensitive transceivers, amplifiers, and computer components, thereby preventing catastrophic damage. Key products include the _Coaxial Lightning Protector_ series, designed for various impedance levels and frequency ranges up to 3 GHz, and the _AC Line Surge Protector_ for shack power distribution. Effective deployment of these protection devices can significantly reduce the risk of equipment failure and ensure operational continuity during severe weather. For instance, a properly installed coaxial arrestor can handle peak currents of **20 kA**, while AC line protectors offer clamping voltages typically below 400V. Comparing different models reveals varying levels of insertion loss and return loss, with some coaxial units exhibiting less than 0.1 dB loss at 500 MHz, making them suitable for high-performance HF and VHF/UHF operations. Integrating these components into a comprehensive grounding system is crucial for achieving maximum protection against both common-mode and differential-mode surges.

A 10mm thick aluminum plate serves as the foundation for a homemade hexbeam antenna, designed to support the central mast and six radiating elements. The construction details include precise drilling for the central mast and the six fiberglass spreaders, ensuring proper alignment and mechanical integrity. The author, FY8PE, shares insights from his experience, emphasizing the importance of robust materials for long-term outdoor deployment. The design incorporates a specific arrangement for the spreader attachment points, allowing for easy assembly and maintenance of the hexbeam's unique geometry. While specific performance measurements are not detailed, the focus on structural strength and material choice suggests an emphasis on reliability in various weather conditions. The project provides practical guidance for hams looking to build a durable hexbeam base.

This web article by VK3BLG details the construction of an experimental 70cm (432 MHz) circularly polarized patch antenna, intended for satellite communication. The resource provides dimensions, feed point specifications, and impedance matching considerations for a single patch element, with discussion extending to array configurations for circular polarization. Construction involves a copper patch element on a dielectric substrate, fed via a coaxial cable. The design is based on information derived from AO-40 satellite antenna specifications, focusing on achieving circular polarization for satellite reception. The article includes specific dimensions for the patch and feed points, along with impedance values. Validation is implied through on-air satellite reception reports, with initial signal reports of **1 S-point above noise** for AO-40 beacons using a grid reflector, improving to **3-4 S-points above noise** with a 2-turn helical feed. The author references a _NanoVNA_ for impedance measurements and discusses the relationship between slot and dipole antennas in the context of patch design. DXZone Focus: Web Article | 70cm Patch Antenna | On-Air Satellite Reception | Circular Polarization

This QST article describes the electrical and mechanical design process for two LPs that cover the HF bands from 10-30 MHz

Examining the _Angle of Radiation_ and its impact on amateur radio operations, the resource provides insights into optimizing antenna performance for DX and local contacts. It features a design for SPOTTO, a direct conversion high-performance universal DSB transceiver, detailing its construction and operational characteristics for homebrew enthusiasts. Additionally, the site presents a 7-element VHF high-gain antenna design, offering practical schematics and expected performance metrics for those seeking enhanced gain on VHF bands. The resource also covers the development and popularity of the _FT8_ digital mode, highlighting its effectiveness in weak-signal conditions and its role in special event operations like the FT8DMC anniversary. It includes information on Hamfest India 2023 and the Lamakaan Amateur Radio Convention, providing dates and organizational details for significant Indian amateur radio gatherings. Technical articles on Direct Digital Synthesizers (DDS) VFOs and low-cost multifunctional frequency counters offer practical project ideas for radio amateurs.

Designing and constructing portable wire antennas for HF operations, this resource explores several configurations including the _foldback dipole_ for space-constrained setups and an inductively shortened dual-band dipole for 20m and 40m. It details the calculation of inductance for shortened elements, providing a Visual Basic 6.0 program screenshot that illustrates determining coil parameters like turns and length for a **25.5 uH** inductor. The document emphasizes practical considerations such as adjusting wire lengths for optimal SWR, noting that a dual-band dipole achieved SWR below 2:1 on both 20m and 40m, with careful adjustment bringing it under 1.5:1. Further, the resource describes a half-wave antenna matched with a coaxial stub, a method often referred to as the _Fuchskreis_ in German amateur radio circles, to transform the high feedpoint impedance to 50 Ohms. This monoband solution, for a 20m application, uses a stub length of **2.98m** (0.216 lambda multiplied by coax velocity factor) and a shorted stub of approximately 48cm. The coaxial stub design is highlighted for its resilience to ground proximity, allowing it to be rolled up or laid on the ground with minimal SWR impact, making it highly suitable for portable QRP operations.

A system designed to automatically tune small transmitting magnetic loop antennas, particularly beneficial for **contest operations** where rapid frequency changes are common. The core of the system involves a PC-based control application, AutoCap, written in C#, which monitors antenna SWR via an external meter and commands a motor interface to adjust the loop's variable capacitor. The software is compatible with Windows and Linux via the Mono framework, offering a graphical user interface for monitoring system status, SWR, power, and motor commands. Key components include one or more magnetic loop antennas equipped with DC or stepper motors for capacitor adjustment, an SWR meter with data output (such as the Telepost LP-100A or a homebrew serial/USB SWR meter), the AutoCap PC software, and a motor interface. The most effective motor interface utilizes an **Arduino-based controller** with custom firmware, providing precise control over both simple DC motors and stepper motors, and supporting features like motor braking for finer adjustments. The system allows for configurable SWR thresholds, pulse widths, and motor effort settings to optimize tuning speed and resolution. Optional radio integration provides frequency hints, enabling the algorithm to learn the relationship between motor actions and resonant frequency, thereby speeding up initial tuning responses. The software also supports antenna profiles, allowing operators to save and recall specific configurations for different loops, including accumulated frequency hint data.

This is a one for all antenna tuner with wide range tuning on all the HF bands. The tuner is based on a G3WQW design. DIY project by PD7MAA

The HF horizontal loop has been around for many years now. This article includes a YouTube video and discusses the reasons for looking at this antenna, its design, and its installation. There are some on-air comparisons against three regular double bazooka (coax) dipoles and the Par SWL End-Fed antenna.

Benelec Pty Ltd specializes in the design and manufacturing of **antennas** and RF components, covering a broad frequency range from 0.002 GHz to 8 GHz. Their product line includes Land Mobile Radio Antennas, such as HF 2-30MHz, VHF 40-180MHz, and UHF 200-520MHz models, alongside specialized Military Antennas for dismounted, UxS, C2, and EW applications. The company also produces Cellular Antennas, including 4G/5G and GPS/GNSS types, and Marine Antennas for both vessel-mounted and fixed-site installations. Additionally, Benelec offers a comprehensive range of coaxial cables, connectors like N-Type and SMA, and various radio accessories. The company's offerings extend to RF components such as duplexers, diplexers, and 50 Ohm loads, as well as DAS components like directional couplers and hybrid combiners. Benelec provides EMP and lightning protection solutions, including 1/4 Wave Stub protectors and replaceable GAS capsules. Their product catalog also features P25, DMR, and FM Analog radios, along with portable and mobile radio accessories like batteries, chargers, and cabled headsets. The company supports various sectors with robust communication solutions.

KA7OEI article on homebrewing Yagi UDA antennas with practical suggestions and designing notes.

A dual band coax trap antenna designed to work on 20 and 30 meters or on 20 and 40 meters band by Phil W0XI

The page discusses the concept of a 2-element Parasitic Ground Plane antenna for the 40-meter band. It includes a conversation between amateur radio operators discussing modeling results and design considerations for the antenna. The author shares insights on radial configurations and the impact on antenna efficiency and pattern.

DK7ZB's fan dipole designs address the challenge of operating multiple HF bands with a single feedline, providing practical construction details for **multiband wire antennas**. The resource outlines specific lengths for half-dipoles across various band combinations, including 10-15-20m for classic bands and 12-17-30m for WARC bands. It emphasizes the importance of proper spacing between resonant elements to avoid impedance interaction and high SWR, a common issue when frequencies are too close. The article details the use of **current baluns** built with FT240-43 or FT140-43 cores, specifying turns and cable types for 1KW and 400-Watt power levels. It includes a correction table for adjusting dipole lengths based on frequency shifts, aiding in fine-tuning resonance. The 20+40m dipole is noted for its ability to operate on 15m with an ATU, demonstrating versatility.

Antenna tuners are crucial for matching the impedance of antennas to the 50 ohm output impedance of transmitters. The _LDG Z-11 Pro_ is an automatic antenna tuner designed to handle up to 125 watts, making it suitable for a wide range of amateur radio applications. Its compact form factor allows it to pair well with transceivers like the _FT-857D_, providing a portable solution for operators who frequently change locations or setups. The tuner covers the 80 through 6 meter bands, offering a broad impedance match capability. Although it struggles with some loads, it performs well with typical ham antennas, even managing to load an 80 meter dipole on 6 meters. One of the standout features of the _Z-11 Pro_ is its 8000 memory slots, which enable it to remember successful matches and quickly retune when revisiting frequencies. This memory function significantly reduces tuning time, often to less than half a second. The unit is well-constructed, with improved pushbuttons and a sturdy metal case that offers good shielding. However, users should be aware of potential RFI issues and the lack of a power switch, which requires disconnecting the power cord to turn off the unit completely. Overall, the _LDG Z-11 Pro_ is a user-friendly and cost-effective tuner, offering advanced features that enhance its utility in various amateur radio setups.

Presents construction details for Moxon antennas, specifically focusing on 10-meter and 17-meter band configurations. It covers practical aspects of building these directional wire arrays, including element spacing, feedpoint considerations, and material choices for optimal performance. The resource emphasizes homebrewing techniques suitable for amateur radio operators. Discusses the advantages of the Moxon rectangle design, such as its compact footprint compared to a full-size Yagi and its favorable front-to-back ratio. It provides insights into achieving proper impedance matching and structural integrity for portable or fixed installations. The content includes photographic examples of constructed antennas. Explains the iterative process of tuning and optimizing Moxon antennas for specific frequency segments within the 10m and 17m bands. It offers guidance on minimizing SWR and maximizing gain, drawing from real-world building experiences to assist constructors in replicating successful designs.

The broad band hexagonal beam (hexbeam) designed by G3TXQ and built by K4KIO

Design of a 40 meter Vertical antenna

An antenna for shortwave radio broadcasting consisting of rows and columns of dipoles, is a high gain directional antenna, designed for medium and long range communications.

Presents the Holy Cluster, a contemporary DX cluster service offering real-time amateur radio spot data. This platform integrates a dynamic graphical map to visualize current contacts, enhancing situational awareness for DXers and contesters. Developed by an Israeli group of developers and supported by the Israeli Association of Radio Communication (IARC), the Holy Cluster aggregates DX spots from various sources, including traditional telnet clusters, the Reverse Beacon Network (RBN), and PSK Reporter, providing a comprehensive view of band activity. The cluster's design emphasizes a user-friendly interface for monitoring DX activity across multiple bands, including dedicated support for JOTA (Jamboree On The Air) operations. Its aggregation capabilities allow operators to quickly identify propagation openings and active stations, streamlining the process of making two-way radio contacts. The integration of RBN and PSK Reporter data offers insights into propagation conditions and station reception reports, which can be invaluable for optimizing antenna direction and operating strategies.

The resource details the construction of a multiband trap-style Inverted-V antenna designed for operation on 3.5 MHz, 7 MHz, 14 MHz, 21 MHz, and 28 MHz. It presents specific winding data for the traps, including the number of turns, wire gauge, and coil former dimensions, crucial for achieving resonance on the target bands. The document provides a parts list and a diagram illustrating the antenna's physical layout and trap placement. It outlines the process for building the traps using PVC pipe formers and specifies the required capacitor values for each trap. The design emphasizes a practical approach to achieving multiband operation with a single feedline, a common goal for HF operators with limited space. The document includes a table with antenna segment lengths for each band, allowing for precise replication of the design. It also offers insights into tuning and adjustment, ensuring the antenna performs optimally across the designated amateur radio bands.

Hi-Z Antennas offers specialized high-impedance receiving systems, primarily focusing on phased vertical arrays for HF reception. Their product line includes preamplifiers designed for shortened vertical antennas, featuring optimized 15dB gain and array-matched characteristics. These components are engineered to enhance weak signal reception and improve signal-to-noise ratio across the HF spectrum. The company provides controllers for managing multiple vertical elements in a phased array configuration, enabling directional reception patterns. These systems are particularly effective for mitigating local noise and interference, a common challenge in urban and suburban operating environments. Specific offerings include solutions for 160-meter and 80-meter bands, addressing the unique requirements of low-band DXing. Technical details often reference components like the 2N3866 transistor in preamp designs and discuss concepts such as out-of-band attenuation. The focus remains on optimizing receiving antenna performance through impedance matching and active amplification, rather than transmit capabilities.

A ten element ultra-lightweight yagi beam antenna for 144 MHz based on YU7EF design concept

The HyGain LJ-153BA a monoband 3 element Yagi, designed for the 15 m band 21.00 - 21.45 MHz

A 17 3/4-inch radiating element and 18 3/4-inch ground plane radials form the basis of this quarter-wave ground plane antenna for 2 meters FM. The design, attributed to AA1PG, utilizes a panel-mount SO-239 UHF connector and three lengths of #12 copper wire, with a total material cost estimated at $3.00. Construction involves soldering the elements directly to the SO-239, emphasizing thorough solder flow for robust connections. Recommended feedline includes _RG-8X_ for longer runs, with _RG-58_ acceptable for shorter lengths, cautioning against _RG-174_ for VHF applications due to high loss. The antenna is designed for elevated deployment, such as in trees or on roof gables, to maximize line-of-sight propagation. It aims to improve repeater access compared to typical rubber duck antennas, even with low power output.

Specialize in engineering, design and repair of all rf equipment. Dealer for two way radios, scanners, shortwave radios, wi-fi antennas, wifi amplifiers. Based in Fortuna, California.

Constructing a mobile HF antenna presents unique challenges, particularly when aiming for multiband operation and robust mechanical stability. This project details N1GY's adaptation of the KM4IE $20 antenna and the _Texas Bugcatcher_ design, focusing on practical build considerations and on-the-road performance. The author shares insights from winding coils on 2-inch PVC forms and integrating a salvaged fiberglass core from an old Hamstick-style antenna to enhance structural integrity, preventing potential failures from stress on PVC joints. N1GY's build includes a custom matching coil and a commercially sourced MFJ loading coil, carefully integrated into the design. The article provides specific tap settings for bands from 75 meters to 15 meters, achieving SWRs as low as **1.2:1** on 40 meters and **1.6:1** on 75 meters. Mechanical testing involved driving at speeds up to 70 MPH on Interstate routes, confirming the antenna's durability and the effectiveness of its PVC brace system. Further modifications address real-world usability, such as simplifying antenna removal for car washes. The ground strap was updated with a Power Pole connector, and the brace attachment to the luggage rack was converted to wing nuts, reducing removal time from 30 minutes to approximately _five minutes_. This iterative design process highlights practical solutions for mobile HF operation.

G/T (Gain-to-Noise Temperature) is a critical figure of merit for evaluating the receive performance of VHF/UHF antennas, particularly for weak-signal work like EME (Earth-Moon-Earth) or meteor scatter. This resource presents extensive simulation data for numerous 2-meter and 6-meter Yagi antenna designs, originally compiled by _VE7BQH_ (Lance Johnson). The lists, updated as of October 2017, include various antenna models from designers such as _DK7ZB_, G0KSC, and K1FO, providing key performance parameters. Each entry details the antenna's G/T value, gain, front-to-back ratio, beamwidth, and VSWR at specific frequencies like 144.1 MHz or 145.0 MHz. The data facilitates comparison of different Yagi configurations, including those with folded dipoles and varying intrinsic impedances, aiding radio amateurs in selecting optimal antennas for their specific operational needs on the 2-meter and 6-meter bands.

A portable VHF yagi antenna designed for SOTA operations based on the orignal DK7ZB concept.

Presents the construction of a 2-meter **Skeleton Slot Yagi** stack, detailing the design process and practical considerations for VHF operation. The author shares insights from building and testing this antenna, emphasizing its performance characteristics for local and extended range contacts. The project outlines the specific dimensions and materials used, providing a clear path for other radio amateurs to replicate or adapt the design for their own stations. The resource covers the unique aspects of the Skeleton Slot radiator, explaining how its geometry contributes to gain and pattern control. It includes discussions on impedance matching and feedline considerations crucial for optimizing power transfer and minimizing SWR. The article draws on real-world testing, offering practical results that validate the theoretical design. This project serves as a valuable reference for those interested in custom VHF antenna solutions.

The NB6Zep Antenna, an electrically shortened 80-meter end-fed wire, addresses space constraints for low-band operation by integrating two loading coils into a 37-foot wire. This design, modeled with _EZNEC_, explores configurations like the quarter-wave sloper and inverted-L, with the latter providing a more vertical radiation pattern and practical backyard deployment. The resource details specific coil construction, recommending 21 uH coils made from _BW coil stock #3026_ or similar, and outlines wire segment lengths for optimal tuning. Performance analysis indicates a radiating efficiency of approximately 27% with good ground conductivity, resulting in a signal typically 3-4 dB down compared to a full-size quarter-wave vertical. The antenna exhibits a narrow bandwidth, around 50 kHz, due to its high Q, necessitating a tuner for broader band operation. Feedpoint impedance is low, with ground resistance playing a critical role in achieving a usable SWR. The article emphasizes the importance of an effective ground rod at the feedpoint for proper operation and tuning, suggesting an antenna analyzer for precise adjustments. It confirms the antenna's suitability for DX, citing successful contacts from Oregon to the East Coast and Hawaii on a 160-meter variant, making it a viable option for urban operators seeking low-angle radiation on 80 meters.

Six elements yagi antenna for 6 meters band. This antenna design is based on the QuickYagi 4 software by WA7RAI, uses a 6.5 m boom, feature 12.0 dBi gain and 35dB front/back

An unconventional antenna family, the VHF/UHF Zigzag Dipole Antennas. Design, theory and practical construction, transformation and balancing with a half wave balun.

Constructing an effective directional antenna for the 40-meter band presents unique challenges due to its physical size requirements. This resource details the homebrew construction of a 2-element _Moxon_ Yagi antenna specifically designed for 7 MHz operation. The author, TA7OM, provides a visual guide to building this antenna, showcasing the boom, element mounting, and feedpoint connections through a series of high-resolution photographs. While textual descriptions are minimal, the imagery clearly illustrates the mechanical aspects of the antenna's assembly. The _Moxon_ rectangle design offers a compact footprint compared to a full-size Yagi, making it a practical choice for many hams with limited real estate. The visual documentation allows builders to replicate the antenna's structure, including the use of PVC pipe for element support and the method for spacing the driven and reflector elements. The project emphasizes practical construction techniques for achieving a directional pattern on a challenging HF band, suitable for DXing and contesting.

On this page are designs for Dual Band 2M / 70cm antennas. All antennas are 50 ohm designed driver. These Yagis have a unique element called a Open Sleeve. 4 Element 5 element and 9 element Dual Band - 2M / 70cm antenna projects

This antenna can gets you on the air on 14MHz, and it has a useable frequency range. The VSWR is almost perfect at the centre-frequency abd the design uses no expensive components.

A Batwing Antenna Design Challenge

A freeware windows antenna design and modelling software developed by an amateur radio operators primarily intended for VHF yagi aerials.

MyAntennas.com offers standard and custom made multiband antennas, Baluns, Common Mode chokes and accessories. All products are designed and made by Danny Horvat, E73M an antenna design engineer formerly employed by Cushcraft Corporation.

Demonstrating the construction of a short dipole antenna tailored for the 60 meter band, this resource provides detailed instructions for radio enthusiasts with limited space. The design incorporates inductive loading using two inductors (L1/L2) made from PVC tubes, allowing for effective operation on 5 MHz. The antenna consists of 12 meters of wire, divided into four sections, with specific dimensions and materials outlined for optimal performance. Results from users indicate that this antenna can significantly enhance DXing capabilities on the 60 meter band. Feedback from operators suggests that while the design is effective, adjustments may be necessary based on individual setups, such as coil diameter and wire gauge. Many users report successful construction and operation, with some experimenting with variations to improve resonance. The practical application of this antenna design has led to successful contacts and improved signal quality, making it a popular choice among 60 meter band operators.

This article describes the details of the design, which can be easily scaled for just about any HF band. The antenna described in this article is for the 20 meters band.

Valcom Guelph specializes in the design and manufacturing of a full range of MF Beacon 100 KHz - 600 KHz, AM Broadcasting 540 - 1700 KHz, HF 1.8 - 30 MHz, VHF 30 - 300 MHz and UHF 300 - 1,200 MHz and SHF up to 6 GHz antennas based in Canada

This antenna was designed for the CQ WW CW 2009 at EA8URL. All elements are made out of fishing rods with an insulated copper cable fixed on the rods by cable ties. Both fishing rods and cable are UV resistant.

Getting the most out of LowFER transmitting antennas, designing an efficient antenna for the 1750-meter band by K0LR

This is a presentation used at OVARC on the LindenBlad antenna construction. The presentation cover several topics about this antenna, from the basic antenna design, to the guide on how to contruct a custom lindenblad antenna for the 2 meters band and and 70 centimenters band.

There are a large number of antenna designs for HF. One choice out of many is the fan dipole. The ability to transmit of multiple bands without needing a tuner (and even more with a tuner) is a very desirable factor in choosing a versitle antenna for HF.

The .64 wavelength antenna is presented as a single-element design offering superior gain, specifically noted for achieving at least 0.8 dB/d more gain towards the horizon compared to a 5/8 wave element. The discussion emphasizes identifying specific hardware revisions, defining clear operating goals for various signal paths like receiving, transmitting, and data, and establishing a baseline measurement before any modifications. This methodical approach ensures accurate assessment of antenna performance. Practical application involves a structured testing methodology where only one variable is altered at a time to ensure valid comparisons. The article suggests exploring related technical paths, referencing components like the R820T Rafael Micro and Mirics MSI3101 SDR USB Dongle, and encourages a holistic view of the radio system from antenna to operator. This systematic process helps hams optimize their antenna systems for improved DXing and contesting.