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This antenna article is geared towards new Hams and antenna builders looking for a very inexpensive 6 band antenna that can be efficiently fed with 50 ohm coax without a tune

Discussion at eham about wire size used in wire antennas, and how it affects the gain of the antenna

W0IPL article on NVIS Antenna

Since they were first described by the French mathematician Benoit Mandelbrot in the mid-1970s, repeating geometric figures known as fractals have fascinated computer scientists, mathematicians and graphic artists.

A 38-foot Tristao Tower, similar to the U.S. Tower HDX538, was installed twice by the author, first in 1980 and then reinstalled in 1989. The resource details the challenges of self-performing heavy construction tasks like breaking concrete and digging a 3' x 3' x 6' deep footing, contrasting it with hiring professionals for the second installation. It highlights the financial and physical costs associated with DIY tower foundation work, noting a rebar cage cost of $65 in 1980 versus $150-$175 today, and the expense of tools for bending rebar. The content emphasizes the critical importance of obtaining building permits, recounting how a permit in Buena Park, California, nullified a neighbor's complaint about TVI. It also discusses the necessity of adhering to local building codes, such as the 1975 UBC and the subsequent 1985 UBC recertification requirement, which reduced the allowed antenna wind loading from 30 square feet to 20 square feet for the author's _KT34A_ Yagi. The footing depth also increased from 6 feet to 6.5 feet under the newer code. Practical advice includes hiring licensed contractors for specialized work, delaying antenna installation for a month after raising the tower, and verifying buried utilities before any excavation. The author provides specific examples of utility location services like _DigAlert_ in California, underscoring the legal and safety implications of neglecting this step. The narrative is grounded in personal experience, offering a realistic perspective on tower projects.

Description and simulation of two types of rhombic antennas, using the software 4Nec2: the simple bi-directional and the terminated directional rhombic antenna

A nice post on Make: on homebrewing a multiband antenna for amateur radio portable operations

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

The Patch Antenna Array was constructed and used for various satellite up and down links at my previous residence in Melbourne, Victoria from 2003 - 2007

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

Experiences with Loop antennas at G3YMC include some loop antenna tests and theory by G3LHZ

Ten essential tips and truisms for understanding HF antenna: Non-resonant wire dipole antennas fed with open-wire line and an antenna tuner can function effectively as multiband antennas, as detailed in "The Classic Multiband Dipole Antenna" by WB8IMY in March 2004 QST. Coaxial cable, unlike balanced parallel-wire feed lines, can cause RF to travel on the outer shield braid, leading to RF feedback to the station; a 1:1 balun at the dipole center can mitigate this by isolating the unbalanced coaxial feed line. Antenna gain is achieved by shaping and directing RF energy, with beam antennas concentrating power in a specific direction, and wire antennas also exhibiting shaped radiation patterns. An antenna tuner's primary role is to match the transceiver's 50-ohm output to the antenna system's impedance, allowing modern transceivers to deliver full power. Wire antennas do not always require center feeding; end-fed long wires or off-center-fed dipoles (like the Windom) can be used, though they often necessitate an antenna tuner and a counterpoise or radial network. Dipole antennas do not need to be perfectly horizontal; their legs can be bent or inclined, which affects feed point impedance and may require SWR experimentation with coaxial feed. Vertical antennas shorter than a half wavelength require an efficient ground system, typically comprising elevated or buried radial wires, with more radials generally leading to better efficiency. A 1:1 SWR indicates an impedance match but does not guarantee antenna efficiency; an inefficient vertical antenna with a poor ground system can show a low SWR while wasting most RF as heat. Investing in high-quality, low-loss feed line, especially coaxial cable, is crucial for maximizing RF signal transfer and overall antenna system performance.

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.

Do you want to measure antenna impedance at resonance? With this Antenna Scope, you have a simple RF Bridge for getting started in an exciting part of Ham Radio, building your own Antennas that work well

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.

The **KC0KJF** personal amateur radio page provides a collection of resources for fellow hams, particularly those interested in operations within southwest Missouri. It offers detailed listings for **Missouri repeaters** on both 2 meters and 70 centimeters, serving as a practical reference for local VHF/UHF communication. The site also includes information about the operator's station setup and antenna projects, such as a dipole and a bazooka antenna, which can offer insights into basic antenna construction and deployment. Beyond local repeater data, the page features links to the FCC Part 97 rules, essential for understanding amateur radio regulations. The operator, licensed as a Technician Class since April 16, 2001, shares his journey from Citizen's Band Radio to amateur radio, driven by a lifelong fascination with shortwave listening. This narrative provides context for the resource's focus on practical operating information and foundational regulatory knowledge. Additional content covers specific equipment like the 2-meter/70-centimeter Arrow Antenna, useful for hams considering portable or fixed station VHF/UHF setups.

Slot cubes are folded skeleton slot antennas with widened, folded dipoles bent into a cube to reduce size. QST Article 12 2019

Stop common-mode current when transmitting with an end-fed antenna. Unbalanced antennas are very prone to currents on the outside of the coax.

ITELITE manufactures omnidirectional, sector and directional antennas 900 MHz 2.4 GHz 3.5 GHz 5 GHz 5.8 GHz antennas.

50MHz Collapsible 2 Element Mini Beam antenna, an overview the development of the 6MBA.

**LDG Z100** automatic tuner repair focuses on toroid replacement and troubleshooting. The guide provides detailed steps for diagnosing and fixing common issues with the toroid, which is crucial for the tuner's performance. It includes specific instructions on disassembling the unit, identifying faulty components, and sourcing replacements. The document is technical, requiring familiarity with electronic components and soldering techniques. It emphasizes the importance of using the correct toroid specifications to ensure optimal functionality. Successful repair of the **LDG Z100** ATU restores its ability to match a wide range of antennas, enhancing transmission efficiency. The guide compares the performance before and after the repair, highlighting improvements in SWR readings and overall reliability. Practical application of this repair extends the life of the tuner, making it a cost-effective solution for amateur radio operators. The document serves as a reference for similar repairs on other models, providing insights into common issues and solutions. It is a valuable resource for those looking to maintain their equipment without resorting to professional services.

This article describes the design and simulation of a multiple dipole antenna for the HF band, using the software MMANA-GAL. The antenna will be designed to operate in the 10, 20, 40 and 80 m bands

This article is about a simple vertical end-fed-half-wave wire antenna for 10 meters that can be used in case of restricted space.

Experimental Dual Band High Gain Flower Pot Antenna

A NEC Model Comparative Analysis of Physical Orientation and Performance. The small magnetic loop is a useful compromise antenna for limited space and portability. For this reason, the magnetic loop antenna is a practical high frequency antenna solution for the restricted space of apartment dwellers

Post on a W3EDP experience by Bob Kellogg, AE4IC

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.

50 MHz extended 6-7 element ZX-Yagi antenna. Dimensions for the 7 elements and information on performance of a 2 stacked antennas featuring a total max gain of 20.8 dBi

Pictures and description of a SteppIr vertical antenna setup in a small backyard using DX Engineering radial plates.

The W3EDP is a 85 foot long wire and a 17 foot counterpoise. At N4KGL

The G5RV junior Half Size antenna by kc8hps

kv5r 2 meter antenna

A multiband HF Vee Beam antenna at VK5SW. If you're lucky enough to have the room, perhaps you may like to put up a multiband Vee Beam antenna for the HF bands.

An off-center-fed sleeve dipole, made of CPVC and aluminum foil tape by KV5R

Building a Resonant Feed line Dipole for 2 Meters

The **136kHz Vertical Antenna** at G3YMC employs a Butternut HF2V structure, standing 10m tall. It integrates a 6.5mH loading coil to achieve resonance, with a matching transformer for impedance adjustment. The antenna's configuration includes top loading via a 12m horizontal wire, enhancing capacitive impedance. Initial measurements indicated a high impedance of around 300 ohms, necessitating a transformer for a 50-ohm match. Despite challenges with ground losses, the vertical antenna has shown improved performance in specific directions, filling nulls present in the previous loop antenna setup. The tuning remains broad, with variations due to environmental factors affecting the matching. Ongoing adjustments and comparisons with the loop antenna will continue to refine its effectiveness.

In this article the author provides some guidelines on how to solve a common problem when stacking different types of yagi antennas on the same mast, limiting the effects on gain and radiation pattern of both antennas

KD8KSB realization of the CJU satellite antenna that allow similar performance to the arrow antennas.

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.

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

Experimentig magnetic loop antennas for VHF and HF by M0UKD

Study of the Coaxial Dipole: Just how does this thing work.

A wire antenna feeded with an unsymmetrical feed and a 1:4 balun can be tuned from 6 to 80 meters band but can be noisier than a dipole and cause RF in the shack

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

A 30 Meter Quarter Wave DIY Ground Plane Antenna that loads up nicely also on 12 and 6 meters

A Batwing Antenna Design Challenge

22 Different Wire Antennas for the 160 Meter Band, Random Length Radiator Wire, delta loop, loop antennas, off-centered antennas, sloper, dipoles, Z antenna, Zepp and Clothesline Antennas

Notes on how to build an inverted V wire antenna with lenghts for all HF bands from 160 mtrs to 10 mtrs

An comprehensive article on 40 meters antenna comparing vertical height to the resulting gain

The advantage of 5/8 wave antenna is that it has the lowest angle of radiation and has about 1dB more gain when compared to 1/4 and 1/2 verticals. So the 5/8 should be the favourite choice for DX.