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Constructing a 2-meter 5/4 wave antenna, N1HFX details a design fully enclosed within 3/4-inch PVC tubing, addressing the significant velocity factor of PVC which necessitates a 19% reduction in physical length. The design incorporates a specific matching system using 300-ohm TV twin lead to counteract the highly inductive impedance component inherent in a 5/4 wave radiator. Key components include #18 stranded insulated wire for the radiating element, RG58/U coax, a PL259 connector, and a hardwood dowel for internal support, all carefully dimensioned for optimal performance within the PVC housing. The article provides precise cutting lengths for the twin lead and #18 wire, with the overall assembly measuring 77 3/4 inches, reflecting an approximate velocity factor of 0.81. Tuning instructions emphasize taking SWR readings with the antenna assembly inside the PVC, adjusting the #18 wire and twin lead in small increments to achieve a low SWR across the 2-meter band. The prototype antenna achieved SWR readings below 1.2:1 across the entire band, and N1HFX suggests an estimated 6 dB gain when properly mounted, offering a cost-effective alternative to commercial antennas.

A 9 dB gain 70cm collinear antenna construction is detailed, utilizing eight half-wavelength sections of _RG58/U_ coaxial cable. The design incorporates specific calculations for velocity factor (0.66 for RG58/U) to determine precise element lengths, such as 223mm for a half-wavelength at 444 MHz. A quarter-wave radiating element of #16 solid wire, 169mm long, is added to the top, and a 160mm aluminum tube acts as a quarter-wave counterpoise at the feed point. RF choke baluns, constructed from three _FT50-43_ toroids, are positioned a half-wavelength from the feed point to mitigate common mode current. Assembly involves soldering the coax sections in series, followed by SWR testing during construction and final mounting within a ¾-inch PVC pipe. The article suggests using four half-wave elements for a shorter antenna, noting a potential slight increase in SWR, which can be mitigated with quarter-wave ground radials. The design principles and formulas are scalable for other VHF/UHF bands like 6m, 2m, or 1¼m, providing a versatile homebrew solution for enhanced gain.

The Flower Pot Antenna project details a portable dual-band antenna primarily operating on 10 meters, with secondary resonance near the 30-meter band. Construction involves winding RG58 coaxial cable uniformly around a large plastic flower pot, approximately 70cm high with a 60cm top diameter. The design eliminates the need for radials, contributing to its compact and lightweight nature. Key construction steps include soldering the inner conductor to the shield at one end of the wound cable and connecting the wound cable's shield to the rig cable's inner conductor at the base. An LC network, comprising a variable capacitor (0-200pF) and an inductor (10 coils, 5cm diameter, 2mm wire), is inserted between the wound cable's inner conductor and the rig cable's shield. Tuning is performed with an antenna analyzer, adjusting cable length and the variable capacitor for optimal impedance on 10 meters. The antenna performs effectively when installed horizontally.

Building a directional antenna for limited space, M0MRR shares his experience constructing a 10-meter Moxon rectangle. Initially using fiberglass fishing poles and a plastic breadboard, he achieved a 1:1.2 SWR across the band with 50 watts, making contacts as far as PY2TO from the UK. The design incorporates 10-amp power cable for elements and RG58 coax with crocodile clips for feeding, demonstrating a cost-effective approach. His field observations confirm the directional properties, noting European signals fading when facing Stateside, and receiving better reports from stations in the antenna's favored direction. While not formally measured, the front-to-back ratio appears effective. The initial build was somewhat flimsy, intended for temporary deployment, but proved effective for DX. Later, M0MRR constructed a more robust 10-meter Moxon using tubular aluminum pipe, indicating an evolution in his design approach for durability. The project highlights practical antenna building for small backyards, emphasizing the benefits of a directional antenna even with modest power.

The Double Bazooka Dipole is a very efficient single band antenna which is very quite, and does not require the use of a balun. This antenna consists of coax (RG58) or other 50 ohm type with the shield split at the center and the feedline attached to the open ends

A simple multi-band magnetic loop antenna designed for 20, 30 and 40 metres, made from 16 feet of RG58 coax cable. The performance is impressive for its size but not meant to replace a Yagi. The antenna features a tuning head, matching unit, tuning capacitors, band change switch, and matching transformer. The feedpoint is at the bottom of the loop. The document provides detailed instructions on assembly and operation.

A rotary trapped-dipole for 17 and 20 meters, as described by IZ7ATH, presents a practical solution for multi-band HF operation. The author, Talino, recounts his experience building this antenna for IK7ZCQ, detailing the evolution from an initial concept involving a grounded-driven element and gamma-match to a direct-fed, non-grounded design. His pragmatic approach, adapting available materials, is evident throughout the construction narrative, particularly with the use of eight tapered aluminum pipes for the driven element. Construction specifics include precise measurements for the aluminum tubing, with diameters ranging from 30 mm down to 16 mm, and a critical note on reducing tip thickness for weight optimization. The _traps_, initially a concern, are fabricated using 8 turns of RG58 coax on a 27 mm support, tuned to resonate at 18.1 MHz using a dip-meter. Talino emphasizes sealing the traps with RF glue and PVC tape to prevent water ingress, a crucial step for longevity. Field test results, conducted on a 10-meter pole in a clear garden environment, showed an SWR of 1.2:1 on 17 meters and 1.5:1 at 14.200 MHz. While SWR varied slightly when installed at Mario's QTH due to nearby objects, the antenna's performance remained commendable. The final half-dipole length is 46 cm for the 18 MHz tips, and the total weight is under 6 kg, with potential for further reduction.

The 10-meter EH Antenna document details the construction and performance of a specific EH antenna design for the 10-meter band. It describes the integration of an L+L balanced matching network, a key component for impedance transformation, and highlights the addition of a tuned coaxial trap. This trap, consisting of 8 turns of RG58 coax wound around PVC tube and resonated at 29 MHz with a 10 pF capacitor, effectively inhibits common-mode current on the feeder, stabilizing antenna tuning. The resource presents a circuit diagram in Figure 1 and assembly details in Figure 2, illustrating the use of PVC plumbing tube as host material for dipole cylinders made from recycled aluminum tubing. It also explains the fabrication of capacitor stators and slider sections from thin aluminum tubing. The author, Lloyd Butler VK5BR, discusses initial challenges with feeder interaction and how the tuned trap resolved these issues, leading to stable tuning. Limited backyard tests indicate that the antenna, with the trap fitted close to the input connector, might exhibit similar field strength for both low and high angle transmission, suggesting a potential skewing of the signal. The document references previous articles by VK5BR in "Amateur Radio" for further operational details of the matching network and trap functionality.

Presents a detailed construction guide for a **Quadrifilar Helix Antenna** (QHA) optimized for 137 MHz, specifically for receiving weather satellite transmissions. The resource outlines the author's experience building previous QHA designs, highlighting challenges with tuning and nulls, and then focuses on a refined design by John Boyer, documented by Steve Blackmore, which proved easier to build and yielded superior reception. The guide provides precise element dimensions, including 1.5m of 32mm PVC pipe for the mast and 8mm soft copper tubing for the helix elements. It specifies lengths for horizontal tubes (190mm, 90mm) and helix elements (903mm, 1002mm), along with instructions for drilling, assembly, and forming a **balun** by wrapping RG58 coax around the mast. The text emphasizes critical steps like ensuring elements are square and twisting in the correct direction to avoid phase issues. It includes references to original QST articles by Buck Ruperto (W3KH) and the WxSat program for decoding satellite transmissions, contextualizing the antenna's purpose. The article concludes with a sample NOAA 12 image from September 1998, demonstrating the antenna's reception capabilities.

A homemade VHF/UHF vertical antenna made essentially with RG58 coax cable, with a 9 turns choke balun to prevent the shield acting as a RF Radiator.

A bazooka antenna design in German with dimensions for 20m and 40m band with RG174 coax cable stronger than the common RG58

The Double Bazooka Dipole is a very efficient single band antenna which is very quite,and does not require the use of a balun. This antenna consists of coax (RG58) with the shield split at the center and the feedline attached to the open ends.

One of the featured products, the V350 CAMP, is a multiband vertical antenna covering 6 to 80 meters, priced at R$ 799,90, demonstrating the range of ready-to-use solutions available. The inventory includes various antenna types such as **HF**, **VHF**, and **UHF** designs, along with dual-band options like the J-Pole Dual V/UHF for R$ 235,00. For those building their own arrays, the store stocks essential components like element holders, clamps, junction boxes, and aluminum plates, alongside specialized items such as the KIT Isolador Central Dipolo - 01DX for R$ 99,90. The shop also provides a comprehensive selection of installation hardware, including diverse antenna mounts, PTT supports, and various coaxial cables like RG58 and RG213, with prices up to R$ 849,90 for RG213. Connectors such as UHF male PL259 and various adapters are readily available, ensuring compatibility for different setups. Additionally, specialized items like side handles for popular transceivers such as the FT857/891 and IC7300 are offered, catering to specific equipment needs. Beyond antennas, the store supplies practical accessories like transport bags, 12V power cables for transceivers, and even branded merchandise like the Antena Kit mug. Rodrigo Gonçalves, PP5BT, manages the operation from Blumenau, SC, Brazil, providing direct contact via WhatsApp at +55 47 9.9985.0155.

DL7JV shares his practical experience building and testing capacitive antennas, initially skeptical of their performance compared to magnetic loops and mono-band dipoles. His interest was piqued after hearing a Spanish station running 100 Watts on 80 meters with a 1-meter Micro Vert, making DX contacts into PY and UA0, despite the antenna being only 4 meters high in a garden. This prompted DL7JV to investigate further, consulting resources from DL7PE and DL7AHW, the latter providing DOS programs like "Mitspule.exe" and "Spulenprg.zip" for calculating antenna dimensions and coil conversions. The article outlines the construction of two prototype antennas: one for 7.050 MHz using a 75mm PVC pipe and another for 3.550 MHz with a 110mm PVC pipe. Both designs feature aluminum foil condensers and coils wound from 1mm² H07V-K wire. DL7JV provides specific measurements for the condenser capacitance, surface area, diameter, height, coil inductance, turns, and wire length for both 40m and 80m versions, along with RG58 feedline lengths. Initial reception tests for the 7 MHz antenna, placed indoors, yielded impressive S9+5 signals from a German station compared to an S8 from a 42-meter roof-mounted loop, even hearing a Japanese station. Transmission attempts on April 4, 2004, despite moderate solar storm conditions, resulted in successful QSOs on 7 MHz with EA5OT (579/559) and on 3.5 MHz with YT1NT (579/559) and G4KKI (579/559) using 100 Watts. DL7JV notes the antenna's sensitivity to coordination and feedline layout, suggesting a modification from DL7AXO involving a 500pF fixed capacitor and coil tap for improved SWR stability. He concludes that while the capacitive antenna is space-saving and performs well for reception and 100W transmission indoors, its transmit performance doesn't yet match larger antennas, with further outdoor field tests planned. DL7JV also intends to build a 1.8 MHz version.

Choking balun for lower HF and MF bands. (1.8MHz - 10MHz). Requiring a choking balun to isolate the potential RF pick up on the coax cable as it runs past equipment such as computer within the radio room at lower HF and MF frequencies a simple method of winding RG58 coax onto a Powdered Iron Toroid Core was constructed.

Presents a detailed construction guide for a 9 dB, 70cm collinear antenna, utilizing readily available _RG58/U_ coaxial cable and PVC pipe for housing. The resource outlines the critical calculations for ½ wavelength sections at 444 MHz, incorporating the coaxial cable's velocity factor of 0.66, which yields a section length of 223 millimeters. It specifies the preparation and soldering of eight such half-wavelength sections, each cut to 231mm to allow for trimming, forming the core of the array. Further instructions detail the integration of a ¼ wave element (169mm #16 solid wire) at the top and a ¼ wave aluminum tube (160mm, 5/16 inch) at the bottom, crimped to the feed point's braid. The guide also addresses RF common mode current suppression by suggesting the use of _FT50-43_ toroids on the feedline. Final assembly steps cover mounting the antenna within ¾" PVC pipe using a wooden dowel, waterproofing connections, and initial SWR checks. The article also discusses scaling the design for different element counts and other VHF/UHF bands.

This article describes the construction of a simple dual-band VHF/UHF end-fed vertical dipole antenna designed for local repeater access using an Icom IC-705 radio. Built from a single piece of RG58U coaxial cable, the antenna consists of a 460mm exposed inner conductor, 450mm of intact coax, and a 9-turn choke balun wound on a 27mm former. Mounted on a 10m Spiderpole, the antenna achieves excellent SWR readings (<1.2:1 on 2m, <1.5:1 on 70cm) and provides effective coverage of local repeaters with unexpected reach into distant locations.

Demonstrates the construction of an **ATU-100 (N7DDC)** automatic antenna tuner, detailing the assembly process from component arrival to final enclosure. The resource covers winding the tandem match transformer, connecting the OLED display, and integrating optional control buttons. Specific attention is given to modifying the EEPROM settings for **QRP operation**, reducing the minimum tuning power to 1 Watt, and addressing potential RF interference with CPU by adding capacitors to button connections. The build log includes practical tips such as adapting RG58 coaxial cable strands for PCB mounting and utilizing a repurposed Macbook Pro cover for the custom enclosure. The author references external GitHub pages for comprehensive information, R0AEK's resources for additional details, and a video by MW0SAW for EEPROM configuration across different ATU-100 variants. Future plans involve field testing the completed tuner during SOTA or other portable activations.

The Dipole Bazooka Antenna for 40 meters is a popular choice among amateur radio operators. Its design allows for easy construction using materials like RG58 coaxial cable and PVC. Measurements are calculated using specific formulas; for instance, at a frequency of 7,100 MHz, the total length is approximately 19.74 meters. This antenna offers a performance range of 97% to 99%, with an impedance of 49 to 52 ohms. Additionally, it can handle up to 1 kW of power and requires no modifications for connection.

Constructing a double bazooka antenna for the UHF band, specifically tuned for 435 MHz, involves a straightforward process detailed with step-by-step imagery. The design leverages readily available _RG213 coaxial cable_, cut to precise lengths derived from formulas: 140.208 / F (MHz) for the radiating element and 99.06 / F (MHz) for the coaxial section. This approach yields a highly effective vertical polarization antenna, suitable for local ragchewing or repeater access. My own field experience with similar coaxial designs confirms their robustness and ease of deployment. The article emphasizes critical steps like short-circuiting cable extremities, interrupting the braid at the center, and securing an insulating support. It also covers preparing the definitive mounting with a quality feedline, noting that RG58 is acceptable for temporary use but better options exist for permanent installations. Weatherproofing is crucial for longevity, achieved through PVC electrician's tube, glue, and heat-shrink tubing. The final assembly is designed for mounting on a small aluminum mast, with the feedline routed internally. The reported SWR measurement is very satisfactory, showing approximately **+/- 3%** HF return, indicating excellent impedance matching at the target frequency.

Constructing a **J-Pole antenna** from 450 Ohm ladder line for 2-meter (144 MHz) and 70-centimeter (440 MHz) operation involves specific calculations and assembly steps. The design, based on an earlier KD6GLF concept using 300 Ohm twinlead, features a ¾ wavelength radiator and a ¼ wavelength matching stub, functioning as an end-fed half-wave antenna without requiring ground radials. It offers a gain of 2.4 dB over isotropic. The resource provides the formulas for determining the lengths of the ¾ wave radiator and ¼ wave stub, incorporating a velocity factor of 91% for 450 Ohm ladder line. For 146 MHz, the radiator measures 55 3/16 inches and the stub 18 3/8 inches. Construction details include cutting a 57¾-inch piece of ladder line, stripping 4 inches from one end, and attaching a 24-inch section of RG58 or RG8X coax with a 3-5 turn RF choke. SWR adjustment is achieved by sliding a shorting bar or by incrementally trimming the elements at a 1:3 ratio (stub to radiator). The goal is a 1:1.1 SWR at 146 MHz, which typically yields 1:1.2 at 446 MHz. The article also discusses power handling, noting that while 10-15 watts is fine, 50 watts may increase SWR to 1:2.1, and advises keeping the antenna away from other objects to prevent coupling and SWR degradation.