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Build a space efficient trapped dipole antenna for 40-80-160 meter bands using RG-58 and PVC pipe. The document provides a brief guide on building a compact dipole antenna appropriate for the 40, 80, and 160-meter amateur radio bands. It explains the materials, building processes, and tuning methods required to provide best performance while preserving space. The paper also discusses theoretical elements of dipole antennas, such as impedance matching and feedline selection.
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Cubical quad antenna calculator in java script let you calculate elements size and spacing in inch and meters.
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Dissects the internal components of the popular _Antron 99_ vertical antenna, revealing its unique design elements. The analysis details the construction of the coaxial phasing sections, which contribute to its multi-band performance across 10, 12, 15, and 17 meters. Observations include the use of fiberglass tubing for weather protection and the specific arrangement of conductors within the antenna's structure. The examination highlights the antenna's reliance on a series of coaxial stubs to achieve resonance on multiple HF bands without external tuning. This internal architecture provides insights into how the _Antron 99_ manages impedance matching and radiation patterns for effective DX operation. Further details cover the antenna's base mounting and overall physical dimensions.
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Details the construction of a **multiband vertical** antenna, specifically designed for stealth operation in a rented property, covering 80m, 60m, 40m, and 30m. The author, N3OX, leverages a 12m Spiderbeam telescoping fiberglass pole as the primary support, noting its sturdiness compared to typical fishing rods while remaining light enough for quick deployment and takedown. The radiating element is a 14 gauge Flex-Weave wire, attached to the pole's top with a rubber grommet, and fed by 27 bare 18 gauge radials spread across a 40-foot square backyard. N3OX describes the impedance matching solution, opting for custom-built L-networks over a remote tuner to enable fast bandswitching. Using an MFJ-259B and EZNEC modeling, base impedances were measured and component values calculated with G4FGQ's L_TUNER and SOLNOID_3 programs. The 80m coil is wound on a 3.5-inch PVC form, while the 30m, 40m, and 60m coils are air-wound, self-supporting #10 wire. Variable capacitors are incorporated for 40m and 30m shunt elements, with the 60m impedance matched by a series inductor. The project includes a **servo-controlled** homebrew band switch, utilizing a two-pole 12-position ceramic wafer switch for remote operation, addressing the limited 80m bandwidth. The entire matching network is housed in a weather-resistant shelter constructed from lumber and aluminum flashing. N3OX reports good DX results at 100W, estimating the total cost between $150 and $250, depending on existing parts.
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The **Extended Double Zepp** (EDZ) antenna, a simple wire design, is presented as a means to achieve 3-4 dB of gain on 10 meters, with an overall length of just 43 feet. This resource, authored by WB3HUZ, details several gain antennas suitable for the 29 MHz AM segment, all modeled using EZNEC software at 30 feet above ground. Other designs include a compact rectangular loop, offering more gain than the EDZ and a lower take-off angle, and the **Lazy H**, a bidirectional antenna providing 6 dB gain, which is also workable on 20, 17, 15, and 12 meters. The Bisquare, a diamond-shaped open-top loop, is also featured, providing approximately 4 dB gain and requiring only a single support. These designs are primarily fed with ladder line or open-wire line to simplify matching, though a coax feed option for the EDZ is shown for 10-meter-only operation. The Lazy H, for instance, requires about 16 feet of open-wire line for its half-wavelength elements spaced a half-wavelength apart. An enhanced EDZ Lazy H variant is also discussed, achieving an additional 1-2 dB gain by extending element length to 1.28 wavelengths and increasing spacing to 0.64-0.75 wavelengths. The Bisquare, while primarily a 10-meter antenna, can be adapted for 20 meters by closing the top connection.
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This PDF article from April 2001 QST details the construction of the "NJQRP Squirt," a reduced-size 80-meter inverted-V dipole antenna. The resource provides a general construction sketch, a photograph of the assembled antenna, and specific dimensions for PC-board insulators. The antenna consists of two wire legs, each approximately **34 feet long**, separated by 90 degrees, fed at the center. It is designed for operation on 80 meters (3.5-4.0 MHz) as a quarter-wavelength antenna, requiring a low-loss feedline and an external antenna tuner due to its non-resonant feedpoint impedance. Construction utilizes readily available materials, including 1/16-inch glass-epoxy PC board for end and center insulators, and #20 or #22 insulated hookup wire for the elements. The feedline specified is 300-ohm TV flat ribbon line, with a note on potential trimming for tuner compatibility. N2CX reports the antenna's center should be elevated to at least **20 feet**, with ends no lower than seven feet above ground, resulting in a ground footprint of approximately 50 feet wide. The design prioritizes NVIS propagation for local 80-meter contacts. DXZone Focus: PDF Article | 80m Inverted-V Dipole | Construction Notes | 34 ft element length
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The QM7 antenna is a simple 7 elements Yagi with 3.7 m boom length for the lower 144 MHz SSB/MGM band, in PDF Format
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Plans for 3 elements beam antenna and gamma matches
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A 1/4 wavelength resonator design for dual-band VHF/UHF operation is presented, focusing on a robust mobile antenna construction. The design prioritizes stability against environmental influences over raw gain, making it suitable for general use rather than marginal signal areas. It details the antenna's two sections: a UHF-resonant lower conductor and an upper coil functioning as an RF choke for UHF and an inductance enhancer for VHF, forming a resonant circuit. Detailed mechanical structure and material considerations are provided, including the use of a PL-259 plug base, 2mm copper rod, and PVC faucet tube for the coil form. The guide outlines a precise construction procedure, from soldering the copper rod to the PL-259 to winding the 22 SWG laminated wire for the VHF section. Tuning involves careful cutting of the UHF section and adjusting the coil length and pitch for VHF, using a reflectometer and temporary ground planes. Furthermore, the resource describes converting the mobile antenna for base station application by constructing a dual-band ground plane system. This involves using electrical conduit, EMT connectors, SO-239 sockets, and a 4-inch round-pan with threaded stainless steel rods as ground elements. Practical test results indicate optimal lengths of **70mm** for UHF and **350mm** for VHF ground elements, with a recommendation to cut rods with _30mm_ extra length for fine-tuning.
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The HB9ABX mobile HF antenna, developed by _Felix Meyer_, offers a high-performance alternative to commercial mobile antennas for 80 through 10 meters. Constructed from fiberglass rods and enamelled copper wire, this design incorporates a loading coil with multiple taps, allowing for band-specific tuning. The article provides detailed instructions for winding the coil, connecting the antenna elements, and integrating it with a vehicle's chassis ground. Field tests conducted at 100W consistently showed the HB9ABX antenna outperforming a HUSTLER mobile antenna by up to **10 dB** (1 S-point) and a YAESU ATAS-100/120 by **18 dB** (2-4 S-points) across distances from 5 km to 1000 km. The design emphasizes a robust ground connection and the use of an antenna tuner, such as an _MFJ-901B_, for optimal SWR on all bands, particularly 40 and 80 meters. Initial adjustment involves setting whip length and coil tap positions to achieve resonance without a tuner, followed by fine-tuning with the tuner during operation. Specific measurements are provided for checking resonance on 21.0 MHz and 14.2 MHz, with precise turn counts for the lower (79 turns) and upper (120 turns) antenna sections. Safety precautions for handling fiberglass dust are also highlighted.
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calculates the dimensions and spacings of the elements needed to build a log periodic antenna, given tao, sigma and the lower and upper cutoff frequencies.
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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.
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The Cubical Quad antenna is a popular choice among amateur radio operators due to its robust design and excellent performance characteristics. This resource provides essential scaling formulas that help determine the lengths of the antenna elements and the necessary gamma match values for various frequencies. The design is adaptable, allowing operators to optimize for gain or front-to-back ratio by adjusting the spacing between elements. The accompanying Excel files facilitate precise calculations, making it easier for both beginners and experienced hams to construct their own Cubical Quad antennas. In addition to the design formulas, the resource includes practical insights from the author, who has successfully built and utilized these antennas in various field events. The document outlines the tuning process for achieving minimum VSWR, ensuring optimal performance. With detailed illustrations and performance data, this guide serves as a comprehensive reference for anyone looking to delve into Cubical Quad antenna construction and optimization, enhancing their amateur radio experience.
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8 elements quad antenna for 2 meters band, centered on 145 Mhz
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This is a vertical multiband antenna made up of several aerial elements lambda/4 length, feeded with just a coaxial cable in French.
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Pictures comments and detail on a 2 elements antenna for 2 meters band
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The HB9CV-Beam is a 2-Element-Yagi with two driven elements and was introduced by Rudolf Baumgartner, HB9CV in the 1950ies. This beam antenna is a coax-feeded version of the ZL-Special construction by DK7ZB for 2m, 6m and 10m
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Details the construction and optimization of antenna systems for amateur radio satellite operations, focusing on practical, homebrew solutions for VHF/UHF bands. It covers building _groundplane antennas_ from salvaged materials, recycling old beam antennas into new configurations like a 2-meter crossed yagi, and constructing a 10-meter horizontal delta loop. The resource also explains antenna matching techniques, including folded dipole driven elements and quarter-wave transformers, along with the importance of accurate SWR measurements and minimizing coax loss. Demonstrates how to achieve a **1:1 SWR** by carefully trimming elements and adjusting radial angles on groundplane antennas. It provides insights into selecting appropriate coax and connectors, highlighting the benefits of Belden 9913 for low loss and the proper installation of _N-connectors_. The article also addresses RFI mitigation from computer birdies and presents a design for a silent triac antenna control circuit, offering practical solutions for common satellite station challenges.
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Presents a practical design for a **crossed-dipole turnstile antenna** specifically engineered for 2-meter Amateur Radio Direction Finding (ARDF) events. The author, WB6RDV, details a robust, omnidirectional, horizontally-polarized antenna, addressing the international ARDF rules requiring such characteristics at a height of two to three meters above ground. This contrasts with the vertical polarization often used in Southern California, highlighting the design's adherence to specific event requirements. The electrical design employs a classic crossed-dipole with a 75-ohm phasing section, resulting in a slight impedance mismatch and an SWR of approximately 1.3:1 with a 50-ohm feedline. Construction utilizes readily available and inexpensive PVC plumbing components and 1/8-inch bronze welding rod for elements. The guide provides step-by-step instructions for mechanical assembly, including drilling element holes at precise 90-degree spacing and preparing the RG-179 matching section. WB6RDV shares insights from his own build experience, discussing the use of plated brass versus aluminum spacers for element attachment and the effectiveness of crimping as an alternative to soldering. The document also covers final assembly, including the integration of ferrite beads as a choke balun and options for weatherproofing and alternative mounting configurations, emphasizing the adaptability of the design for other VHF bands through scaling.
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This article describes how to make a quadrifilar helix (QFH) antenna easily, from inexpensive materials: uPVC plumbing pipe and RG-58U co-axial cable. A low-cost, easy-to-build Quadrifilar Helix (QFH) antenna for weather satellite reception using uPVC plumbing pipe and RG-58U coaxial cable. Unlike traditional designs requiring copper pipe and plumbing skills, this approach enables construction with basic tools and minimal technical expertise. The antenna's shorter, wider proportions favor higher elevation angles, reducing interference from horizon-level pager transmitters. Electrical connections are simplified at the antenna's apex, with the coaxial cable forming the radiating elements. Testing demonstrated consistent signal strength throughout satellite passes, proving effective weather satellite reception is achievable without precision engineering to sub-millimeter tolerances.
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The G3TPW CobWebb antenna design provides a compact, horizontally polarized, omni-directional solution for 20m, 17m, 15m, 12m, and 10m bands. This antenna utilizes five full-size half-wave dipoles, each bent into a square configuration to achieve omni-directional radiation without the nulls typically found in straight dipoles. The design incorporates a single 50-ohm coaxial feedline with an integrated air-core choke balun, minimizing feeder radiation and reducing EMC issues. Construction details include using PVC-covered multi-stranded copper twin cable for elements, supported by a fiberglass cross. The document specifies tapping points for impedance matching to 50 ohms on all five bands, ensuring high radiation efficiency without lossy traps or loading coils. Physical dimensions are compact, with 2.6-meter (8.5 feet) sides and a total weight of 6 kg (14 lbs), making it suitable for mounting on a 20-foot aluminum scaffold pole. Detailed instructions for assembling the junction box, including terminal strip wiring and the coaxial choke balun, are provided with photographs and diagrams. The design emphasizes a confined electric field to reduce coupling to nearby conductors, which helps mitigate TVI and makes the antenna less sensitive to mounting height or ground conductivity.
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HF Wire Yagi antenna with notes and eznec file on original article of a Portable 3-Band Yagi antenna for 10-15-20 meter band made with wire elements. Include link the original to QST article.
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A wire yagi antenna for 20 and 40 meters band suitable for outdoor and field day operations
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For amateur radio operators utilizing _APRS_ or requiring an external antenna for their GPS receiver, this resource details the construction of a compact, circularly polarized mobile antenna. The design is based on a classic turnstile configuration, employing two dipoles rotated 90° from each other and spaced a quarter-wavelength above a ground plane. A parallel-plate transmission line, fabricated from printed circuit board material, serves as both the connection method and mounting post for the dipoles, simplifying the feed network for circular polarization at 1.57542 GHz. The article outlines the fabrication process, starting with a 4-inch diameter hobby tin or brass base plate and #14 solid copper wire elements. It specifies using _RG-58/U_ or similar 50-ohm coax, with an 8-foot maximum length to minimize loss at the GPS frequency. The parallel-plate transmission line is constructed from two 2-inch lengths of single-sided _FR-4_ or G10 PCB material, 0.062-inch thick, with a specific 45° microwave turn cut on the active side. Final assembly involves an 8-ounce cream cheese container as a radome, and the article discusses the self-phased quadrature feed method to achieve circular polarization without a coaxial phasing line, resulting in an omnidirectional pattern suitable for GPS satellite reception.
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3 elements VHF Yagi homebrew antenna designed with YAGIMAX 3. Maximum forward GAIN is about 8,17 DBi. This antenna offering an effective radiation power 4 times greater of the transceiver output by SV1BSX
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Pictures and plans of a 4 elements yagi beam antenna for 14 Mhz
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A 3 elements long yagi antenna for 6 meters band by ON6MU
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Demonstrates adapting the _Moxon rectangle_ antenna design for 2-meter VHF operation, highlighting its unique characteristics for specific applications. It details how the antenna's small size and distinctive far-field pattern, typically associated with HF, can be effectively utilized on VHF. The resource provides modeled dimensions for three different element diameters (1/4", 1/2", 1") and discusses the necessary adjustments to maintain optimal performance, such as gap spacing and element lengths, to achieve a 50-Ohm feedpoint impedance. The article presents predicted performance data, including gain (dBi), front-to-back ratio (dB), and feedpoint impedance (R, jX) across 144, 146, and 148 MHz. It analyzes free-space azimuth patterns and discusses the antenna's behavior when horizontally and vertically polarized over ground, including its suitability for fixed installations, repeater applications, and even satellite communications. Construction considerations, such as bending elements and maintaining critical gap distances, are also addressed. Furthermore, the content explores advanced configurations like using two back-to-back rectangles for broader coverage and a crossed-Moxon setup for circular polarization, suggesting potential for urban communication and satellite work. The author, _L. B. Cebik, W4RNL_, emphasizes the Moxon's strengths in broad bandwidth, wide beamwidth, and high front-to-back ratio, rather than maximum gain.
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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.
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The _Morgain_ antenna for 40/80 meters is a straightforward and cost-effective wire antenna design, requiring careful tuning for optimal performance across two bands with low SWR. Construction involves creating 12 cm PVC spacers with three holes for wire insertion, along with larger terminals for anchoring and connector housing, which should be sealed with silicone. The provided measurements detail the specific lengths for the antenna elements, crucial for achieving resonance on both 40m and 80m bands. Tuning the Morgain antenna necessitates fabricating four wire segments with pins to temporarily connect and adjust the bridging points symmetrically for both 40m and 80m. This iterative process, though time-consuming, ensures the antenna functions effectively for decades once the precise connection points are soldered and protected. The design emphasizes ease of construction and long-term stability, making it a practical solution for hams seeking a dual-band wire antenna.
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The 20-meter homebrew **Moxon antenna** project by 9Y4DD, Dave, details the construction of a 14 MHz directional antenna using readily available and repurposed materials. Initial SWR readings at 6 feet were 1.2 at 14.000 MHz, 1.4 at 14.350 MHz, and 1.1 at 14.175 MHz, with a subsequent increase of 0.1 on all frequencies when raised to 15 feet. The design adheres to specifications provided by L.B. Cebik (W4RNL). Key components include a discarded domestic water pump pressure tank as the center mounting bracket, 1/2-inch PVC conduit for spreaders, and 1/2-inch CPVC hot water pipe inserts to enhance rigidity. The total weight of the antenna is 12.625 pounds, with a material cost of U.S.$36.63. The spreaders are 165 inches from the center, utilizing 2.5mm sq. stranded copper wire for the elements. Dave's design incorporates hexagonal 'spider webs' of waxed twine to stabilize the flexible PVC spreaders, addressing initial issues with wind-induced movement. Separators cut from 3/16-inch Plexiglas maintain an 8.6-inch element spacing. The antenna demonstrated effective DX contacts with Europe from Trinidad, showing improved noise reduction compared to an inverted V.
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M1PAF's 20 Meter Vertical Moxon antenna design, based on Pete Mills' EZNEC model, utilizes a push-up GRP mast and Tufnol plate for mounting cross arms, minimizing metallic elements within the beam. Hydraulic pipe clamps, also plastic, secure the tube clamps, with only two bolts and a plate being metallic. Dog bone insulators with Kevlar line and snap links facilitate quick wire element attachment, ensuring tension in all dimensions. The antenna's support structure includes Tufnol guying rings for Kevlar guys, providing stability against high winds. The cross arms are constructed from three 1-meter sections, allowing for convenient packing. This portable setup was successfully deployed adjacent to the ocean, enabling over 4500 QSOs in six days with 100W, achieving easy contacts into Japan and Asia. The design emphasizes ease of erection by a single operator and robust performance in challenging environments. Components for the cross arms were sourced from Spiderbeam. Further information is available via M1PAF's QRZ.com details.
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Demonstrates the construction and on-air performance of the _NB6Zep_ antenna, a modified 20-meter Extended Double Zepp design optimized for multi-band operation from 40 through 10 meters. The resource covers basic design principles, including dimensions of 66 feet horizontal and 5 feet vertical elements, and specifies open ladder line or TV twin lead for the transmission line. It details material selection for low-cost wire antenna construction, such as 18 AWG wire for the legs and ceramic or plastic insulators, along with practical tips for soldering connections and insulating against moisture. The author, NB6Z, shares insights from extensive _EZNEC_ modeling to optimize the antenna's total length for a 40-meter half-wave dipole footprint and feed line length for direct tuner connection. The article presents field results, including successful _PSK31_ contacts from Oregon to the East Coast on 40 and 30 meters with 50 watts, even at a low height of 6 feet. It provides detailed performance characteristics for each band, noting the _NB6Zep_'s highest gain (over 3 dB) and sharp, medium-angle lobes on 20 meters, which yielded strong DX reports to locations like Korea, Japan, and Argentina. For 17 and 15 meters, it describes a butterfly-like pattern with broad lobes, while 12 and 10 meters exhibit narrow, directional lobes in an "X" configuration. The author also shares personal experiences operating successfully for over a decade in an antenna-restricted environment using the NB6Zep and other stealth wire antennas.
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Constructing a compact, directional antenna for the 6-meter band presents unique challenges, especially for operators with limited space or those seeking portable solutions. This project details the build of a 50 MHz Moxon rectangle, specifically engineered for balcony or temporary mast deployment, using readily available materials from a typical hardware store. The design emphasizes ease of construction and portability, allowing for quick setup and breakdown. The antenna's dimensions are precisely calculated using _Moxgen_ software for 50.200 MHz, ensuring optimal performance. Key construction techniques include using aluminum U-channel for elements, fiberglass driveway markers for insulation, and cable ties for secure assembly. The guide provides detailed instructions for fabricating the driven element, reflector, and boom, including a clever method for creating foldable element tips for transport. Performance observations indicate a respectable front-to-back ratio, capable of reducing an S7 signal to S0 when pointed away, and a modest gain over a simple wire antenna. The design incorporates a ferrite bead choke balun at the feedpoint to mitigate common-mode current and reduce shack noise, a critical consideration for urban or apartment-based operations.
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The page provides detailed information about the construction of a full-size 160M 3 element beam antenna and an 80M 5 element beam antenna on a 330ft tower. It includes specifics about the tower height, types of antennas, elements, gain, take off angles, front-to-back ratio, operating frequencies, weight, and dimensions of the beams. The content is aimed at amateur radio operators interested in building high-performance antennas for the 160M and 80M bands. This Antenna is now been destroyed and is no more operational.
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Demonstrates the construction and performance of an updated ZS6BKW multiband dipole, a variant of the _G5RV_ antenna, specifically designed for HF operation. The article details a real-world installation using 13.5m copper wire elements and 12.2m of 450 Ohm ladder line, configured as a sloping inverted-V with the apex at 10m and ends at 4m above ground. It covers the critical aspect of impedance matching, incorporating an 8-turn choke balun at the feedline transition to RG-58U coax to mitigate RF common mode current. Measurements confirm favorable SWR readings below **1.3:1** on 7.1 MHz, 14.11 MHz, 18.06 MHz, and 24.8 MHz, indicating effective resonance across 40m, 20m, 17m, and 12m bands. The installation also shows usable SWR dips on 3.55 MHz (5:1), 29.02 MHz (2:1), and 50.84 MHz (3:1), extending its utility to 80m, 10m, and 6m with an antenna tuning unit. Initial on-air results report clear reception of stations over **5000km** away, validating its DX potential.
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EI7BA Multiband Cubical Quads projects, includes two elements quad antennas for 10 12 15 17 20 meters band. Performance considerations, detailed pictures and construction notes.
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Selecting an appropriate antenna system for shortwave broadcasting involves evaluating various types based on performance, cost, and operational parameters. This resource details the critical specifications for broadcast antennas, including average and peak power ratings, directivity, takeoff angle (TOA), horizontal beamwidth, and gain, emphasizing that a 100-kW transmitter requires an antenna rated for 150 kW average and 400 kW peak. It clarifies that low TOA signals travel thousands of kilometers, while high TOA is for local coverage, and nearly all modern shortwave broadcast antennas are horizontally polarized. The article explores specific antenna types, such as Log-Periodic Antennas (LPAs), which offer wide frequency ranges (e.g., 2-30 MHz) and directional patterns with 11 dBi gain, costing from $20K to over $100K for multi-curtain versions. Dipole arrays, also known as curtain antennas, are prevalent in international broadcasting, featuring steerable beams (±15° and ±30°) and mode-switching capabilities to alter TOA, with high/low pairs costing over $1 million. Fan dipoles are noted for omnidirectional patterns, smaller size, and lower cost for low-power applications, while rhombics, though simple, require resistive termination and incur several dB of I2R losses. Balun considerations are crucial, as most communications baluns are not rated for the higher average and peak powers of AM broadcast transmitters. Modern shortwave antennas utilize durable materials like Alumoweld wire rope for radiators and support elements, avoiding copper, fiberglass, or materials prone to stretching or deterioration. Feeder systems for high-power stations often require tapered-line baluns to convert 50-ohm unbalanced power to 300-ohm balanced for connection to the antenna.
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A 6 elements VHF Yagi antenna designed with YAGIMAX 3 and made by SV1XY with excellent results on local and satellites contacts like UO-14 and AO-27
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A homemade antenna plan for a portable yagi beam antenna for the Six meters. Consist of a 3 elements yagi beam design include antenna dimensions, with elements lenght and spacing.
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For amateur radio operators seeking a compact, directional antenna for the 10-meter band, this resource details the construction of a Moxon Yagi beam. The design utilizes readily available PVC pipe for the boom and elements, with specific measurements derived from the Moxon Rectangle Generator software. It outlines the assembly process for the main boom and end sections, providing critical dimensions for element spacing and overall length to achieve resonance at 28 MHz. The Moxon configuration offers a smaller footprint compared to a traditional Yagi, making it suitable for limited space installations. The article provides practical guidance for hams interested in a DIY antenna project, emphasizing the use of common hardware store materials. It specifies a 1 1/4" PVC schedule 40 pipe for the main boom and details the use of tees, reducing bushings, and 45-degree elbows for the element ends. Key measurements like the 55" spacing for the ends and the 150 3/4" overall length are provided, enabling replication of the design. The Moxon's inherent wide beamwidth and good front-to-back ratio make it an effective choice for DXing on 10 meters.
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Basics and principles of the HB9CV antenna by Rudolf Baumgartner. This antenna join electric advantages of the two elements direct feeded aerials with the mechanical advantages of the Yagi antennas, in French.
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Quagi antenna design, this little windows application let you calculate dimensions of elements and spacing of a quagi antenna. Freeware by VE3SQB
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This wire-beam has one radiator-element, feeded with 450-Ohm-Wireman-twinlead and needs an antenna-tuner. For the bands 6m, 10m, 12m, 15m, 17m and 20m bended reflector-elements are used. The support is a cross of 4 fibreglass-fishing-rods
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The K5OE 2-meter vertical mobile antenna design, detailed in this resource, employs a 3/8-wavelength vertical section complemented by four shortened radials, forming an off-center-fed vertical dipole. This configuration creates a self-contained lower half, enhancing efficiency compared to traditional 1/4-wave monopoles relying on vehicle bodies for a ground plane. The article specifies construction using PVC components, 10-gauge insulated wire for elements, and provides precise dimensions in both inches and centimeters for the 25-3/16" (64 cm) vertical and 7-3/16" (20 cm) radials. Performance data indicates an honest 3 dBi of gain at 6 feet elevation (2 dBi free-space), with a pattern favoring the horizon, suitable for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications. At 20 feet high, the same antenna exhibits almost 6 dBi of gain, with a nominal 50 Ohm feedpoint impedance at 146.850 MHz. Tuning instructions involve trimming element lengths, with the author achieving a 1.2:1 SWR by pruning the mast to 24-3/4" and radials to 7". The resource highlights the antenna's effectiveness for mobile LEO satellite uplinks, particularly at low elevations, and its suitability for fixed, mobile, or portable operations. The flexible wire elements allow for easy folding, making it a practical choice for backpacking. The original design by K5OE was previously hosted on aol.com.
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F6EZX presents a detailed account of constructing a compact, multi-band _Levy antenna_ for portable holiday operations, specifically addressing issues with local QRM from a previous _Deltaloop_ setup. The article outlines the design criteria, including multi-band operation on 40m, 30m, 17m, 15m, 12m, and 10m, a symmetrical configuration to reduce interference, and a low take-off angle for DX. Construction involves 2x 10.3m radiating elements and a 15.3m open-wire feeder (ladder line) with 7cm spacing, made from 1.5mm2 copper wire and foam pipe insulation spacers. Theoretical calculations, referencing F9HJ's "_Les antennes Levy_" book, guide the determination of element lengths and feeder impedance characteristics, aiming for a good match across bands with a commercial antenna tuner. Initial field tests with the _VCI Vectronics VC300DLP_ tuner showed a 1:1 SWR from 80m to 10m, with some difficulty on 17m. The antenna, mounted as a 45-degree slopper with the high point at 12m, successfully facilitated DX contacts to South America, particularly Chile and Argentina, suggesting a lower take-off angle compared to the previous Deltaloop which favored Brazil. The Levy antenna significantly reduced TVI/RFI, attributed to its improved symmetry and greater distance from the QRA. While signal reports on 15m and 20m were 1-2 S-points lower than the Deltaloop, its performance on 40m and 30m was comparable, fulfilling the design goals for a portable, low-cost, multi-band solution.