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This guide provides step-by-step instructions for constructing a tin can waveguide antenna, commonly known as a cantenna, for enhancing WiFi signal range. The project is budget-friendly, costing under $5, and utilizes easily accessible materials like a food can and basic electronic components. The design is suitable for 802.11b and 802.11g wireless networks, operating within the 2.4 GHz frequency range. To start, gather the necessary parts including an N-Female chassis mount connector, nuts, bolts, and a suitable can. The assembly process involves drilling holes in the can for the connector and mounting the probe. The guide emphasizes the importance of can dimensions and placement for optimal performance, encouraging experimentation for best results. This project is ideal for amateur radio operators and DIY enthusiasts looking to improve their wireless connectivity without significant investment. Safety precautions are advised, as the author does not hold electrical engineering credentials. Users are encouraged to take responsibility for their equipment and ensure proper assembly. With this simple yet effective antenna, users can extend their WiFi coverage and enjoy enhanced connectivity.

Pictures of a multiband dipole, build with simple PVC T and standard electrical wire

One of the most important considerations when designing and building a Yagi antenna is the method used to attach the elements to a boom. This is true because the boom influences the electrical length of the elements. In this article JH Reisert explain with drawings techniques on mounting yagi antenna elements to a boom

End-Fed Half-Wave Antennas (EFHWAs) are analyzed for their utility in portable QRP operations, emphasizing their simplicity, efficiency, and predictable radiation patterns compared to other portable antenna types. The discussion contrasts EFHWAs with vertical antennas, random length wires, and center-fed dipoles, highlighting the common pitfalls of each, such as ground system dependency for verticals and feedline issues for dipoles. The article details the electrical half-wavelength calculation using the formula L (Ft) = 468/F(MHz) and explains how EFHWAs can be resonant on harmonic frequencies, enabling multiband operation. Various deployment configurations are presented, including the inverted L, inverted Vee, sloping wire, and vertical setups, each with specific advantages for radiation angle and polarization. For instance, a vertical EFHWA offers a low angle of radiation suitable for DX contacts without requiring an extensive ground system. The resource also addresses the counterpoise requirements, suggesting a quarter-wavelength wire or connection to a metallic structure for decoupling. A schematic diagram for a simple parallel-tuned circuit tuner, based on the _Rainbow Bridge/Tuner_ design, is provided, detailing component values for 30 and 40 meters, including a 6 microhenry toroidal inductor and a 20-100 picofarad mica compression capacitor. The tuner's adjustment process for SWR matching is also outlined.

The document details the optimization and construction of the _Maria Maluca_ antenna, a compact 6-band (20m-6m) directional beam. It presents a comparative analysis of shortwave antenna principles, highlighting the efficiency gains achieved by using an open feeder line and tuner as a resonant unit, contrasting this with the losses associated with traps or capacitive loads in multiband antennas. The resource specifically revisits an older South American 2-element design for 10, 15, and 20 meters, applying modern NEC-based software to develop a six-band version. Performance data is meticulously tabulated, showing impedance, free space gain, gain at 12m height, elevation angle, and front-to-back (F/B) ratio for each band from 20m through 6m. For instance, on 15m, the antenna achieves 5.1 dBd free space gain and 13.72 dB F/B ratio. The construction section provides practical guidance on element assembly using aluminum pipes and hose clamps, detailing the use of a heavy-duty glass fiber reinforced polyamide rod for electrical separation and bending strength. It also specifies the use of 450-ohm _Wireman_ line CQ 552 for the transmission line. The document includes diagrams for rod fixing, an air-wound balun, and a vertical elevation diagram for the 15m band, illustrating its DX qualification. It also discusses the antenna's suitability for portable and expedition operations, noting its compact transport dimensions (max 1.50m length, 12 lb weight) and quick assembly time (under 15 minutes). The author, Dipl.Ing. Helmut Oeller, DC6NY, is identified as a source for material kits.

This project outlines the construction of a 3-element reversible quad antenna specifically designed for the 40-meter band. The materials required include pushup towers, pressure-treated posts, insulated wire, and various electrical components such as relays and a balun. The construction process is straightforward, beginning with the installation of the posts in a straight line, followed by the assembly of the antenna elements and their elevation to the desired height. The antenna's design allows for directional signal reception, making it ideal for operators looking to enhance their communication capabilities on the 40-meter band. The project includes detailed instructions on tuning the antenna for optimal performance, ensuring that operators can achieve the lowest SWR possible. Additionally, the design can be adapted for other bands by extrapolating dimensions, providing versatility for amateur radio enthusiasts. Overall, this reversible quad antenna project is suitable for both beginners and experienced operators, offering a practical solution for improving signal strength and directionality in 40-meter communications.

A 90-foot vertical antenna constructed from **aluminum irrigation tubing** is detailed, focusing on its innovative raising and lowering mechanism. The resource describes a **45-foot ginpole** system, allowing a single operator to erect or lower the antenna in minutes. It covers the mechanical design, including the pivot base, insulated joints for the tubing sections, and guy wire attachment points. The antenna consists of two 30-foot sections of 4-inch tubing and one 30-foot section of 2-inch tubing, stacked with the smaller diameter at the top. The electrical design incorporates PVC "condulet" boxes at the 30-foot and 60-foot points, housing relays to change the effective height for multi-band operation on 160, 80, 40, and 30 meters. Ferrite rod inductive chokes are used for DC control and to tune out gap capacitance. The antenna is fed with 1000 feet of open wire line, connected to a matching transformer comprising stacked toroids and a coaxial/toroidal balun. Grounding is achieved with a 3x3 foot grid of 16-gauge tinned copper wires with soldered crossovers.

This antenna consists of 4 resonate dipoles made from 12 insulated copper electrical wire. The dipoles are resonate on the following bands: 6 meters, 10 meters, 12 meters and 17 meters.

The ZS6BKW antenna, a popular multiband wire antenna, offers improved band matching compared to the traditional G5RV. This construction guide details the process, beginning with specific dimensions: 13.11 meters (43 feet) for the 450-ohm ladder line and initial dipole arm lengths of approximately 14.8 meters each. It emphasizes the critical role of an _antenna analyzer_ for accurate tuning, particularly for determining the velocity factor of the ladder line and achieving a 1:1 impedance match. The article outlines the materials required, including a 1:1 current balun, 450-ohm window line, wire for the dipole arms, and a 50-ohm non-inductive resistor for testing. It provides a step-by-step procedure for cutting the ladder line to its electrical half-wavelength, explaining how to calculate the velocity factor using measured and free-space frequencies. For instance, a measured 50-ohm impedance at 12.54 MHz with a calculated free-space half-wavelength frequency of 11.44 MHz yields a velocity factor of 0.91. Final adjustments involve hoisting the antenna to its operational height and fine-tuning the dipole arm lengths to achieve optimal SWR, specifically targeting 14.200 MHz. The _ZS6BKW_ design is noted for its performance on 80m, 40m, 20m, 10m, and 6m, though it is not optimized for 15m operation. The author, _VK4MDX_, shares practical tips for durable construction using stainless steel wire and cable clamps.

This online guide details the microphone pinout for the Kenwood TR-7950 transceiver, specifically addressing the wiring configuration for a dynamic mobile microphone with a **500 Ohm** impedance. It provides a pin-by-pin breakdown for the 6-pin microphone connector, identifying the function of each active pin. The resource specifies that Pin #1 is for the microphone audio (white wire), Pin #2 controls the _PTT_ (black wire), Pin #3 activates the memory down function (blue wire), and Pin #4 controls the memory up function (red wire). Pin #6 is designated as the ground connection, while Pin #5 remains unused in this configuration. The document focuses on the physical wiring necessary to restore microphone functionality to the Kenwood TR-7950, a transceiver capable of **45 watts** output on the _2m band_. It directly addresses the technical challenge of re-establishing correct electrical connections after microphone wires have been disconnected from the connector. The information facilitates proper microphone operation for simplex QSOs and other voice communications. DXZone Focus: Online Guide | Microphone Pinout | Kenwood TR-7950 | PTT Wiring

The G5RV multiband HF antenna, designed by Louis Varney (G5RV) in 1946, is a popular compromise antenna offering good overall performance on most HF bands when paired with an external antenna tuner. The basic full-size G5RV measures 102 feet across the top for 80 through 10 meter operation and is fed at the center via a 34-foot low-loss feed-stub. This interaction between the radiating section and the feed-stub facilitates matching across 80-10 meters with a standard tuner, often eliminating the need for ladder line directly to the shack. The antenna's design center frequency is 14.150 MHz, configured as a 3/2-wave dipole on 20 meters, with its 102-foot length derived from long-wire antenna formulas. Construction details emphasize the matching section, which can be open wire, ladder line (window-type), or TV twin lead. Each type has a specific velocity factor (VF) affecting its physical length for an electrical half-wave on 14 MHz; for instance, open wire requires 33.7 feet (VF 0.97), ladder line 31.3 feet (VF 0.90), and TV twin lead 28.5 feet (VF 0.82). The article provides formulas for calculating these lengths and discusses the antenna's behavior on individual bands, from 3.5 MHz where it acts as a shortened dipole, to 28 MHz where it functions as two three-half-wave long-wire antennas fed in-phase. Practical construction notes include recommendations for vertical descent of the matching section, sealing the coax junction, providing strain relief, and winding a coaxial choke coil to mitigate common mode current. The resource also presents dimensions for double-size (204 ft) and half-size (51 ft) G5RV versions, along with their corresponding matching section lengths for various line types, making it a versatile reference for hams considering this classic wire antenna.

Selecting appropriate cabling for amateur radio installations, whether for antenna feedlines, control lines, or station wiring, is critical for optimal performance and safety. This resource provides access to a manufacturer specializing in a broad range of electronic and electrical cables, including options suitable for various ham radio applications. Their product line encompasses standard and custom cable solutions, designed to meet specific operational requirements for both indoor shack setups and outdoor antenna systems. The company emphasizes _proven quality_ and compliance, with products certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), and Intertek (ETL). Their quality management system is registered to _ISO 9001:2015_, ensuring consistent product standards. They offer competitive pricing and utilize AI-logistic tools for reliable on-time delivery, serving customers globally with technical support. Access to detailed technical specifications and an online quote tool is available for registered site members, facilitating precise cable selection for projects requiring specific impedance, shielding, or environmental ratings.

Details Allied Wire and Cable's extensive product catalog, focusing on its role as both a distributor and manufacturer of specialized wiring solutions. The resource highlights the availability of electronic and electrical wire, various cable types, tubing, and pre-assembled cable solutions. It also specifies their capability in **custom cable design**, addressing unique requirements for specific applications. The site presents information on flexible cable options and a broad spectrum of wire and cable specifications, catering to diverse industrial and technical needs. It outlines the company's capacity to provide tailored solutions beyond standard off-the-shelf products, emphasizing their engineering and manufacturing expertise. Key offerings include **coaxial cable**, connectors, and general wiring components, positioning the company as a comprehensive source for connectivity infrastructure. The content implicitly supports applications ranging from industrial automation to specialized radio frequency installations.

One point eight MHz to 30 MHz is the operational bandwidth for this 4:1 Ruthroff voltage balun, designed to interface an unbalanced T-Match network with a balanced antenna system. The project details the construction using a _T200-2_ powdered iron toroid core, tightly wrapped in PVC electrical tape for insulation, and wound with 17 double bifilar turns of 1.25mm enamelled copper wire. This outboard balun offers flexibility, allowing hams to trial various baluns based on antenna system and impedance characteristics, rather than integrating it directly into the tuner. The resource includes a schematic of the balun, a wiring diagram showing winding connections, and a table suggesting alternative toroid cores like the T80-2 or T400-2 with corresponding winding counts. Component sourcing is straightforward, listing items such as the _Amidon_ T-200-2 core, SO-239 connector, and a sealed polycarbonate enclosure from Jaycar. Performance evaluation was conducted using an _AIM 4170C_ antenna analyser, demonstrating efficient 1:4 voltage transformation across the specified HF spectrum. Further efficiency tests involved measuring RF power loss at various frequencies, revealing minimal loss—less than 0.7 dB from 3.6 MHz to 30 MHz, and only 2.0 dB at 1.8 MHz. These measurements, performed under ideal 50-ohm conditions, confirm the balun's effectiveness as a low-loss interface for multi-band antenna systems. The page also links to several other balun and unun projects, including 1:1 current and voltage baluns, and 9:1 voltage ununs, providing a broader context for impedance matching solutions.

The ZS6BKW multiband antenna, an optimized variant of the classic G5RV, features a 102-foot (31.1 m) horizontal span and a 39.1-foot ladder line matching section. This design, derived by G0GSF (formerly ZS6BKW) in the early 1980s using computer programs and _Smith charts_, aims for improved SWR across multiple HF bands compared to its predecessor. Construction details specify Wireman 554 ladder line and #14 AWG THHN copper wire for the radiators, with precise instructions for determining the velocity factor (VF) of the ladder line using an antenna analyzer or dip meter, ensuring accurate physical length for the matching section. The radiator length is electrically 1.35 wavelengths for the 20-meter band, requiring careful trimming during tuning. Field measurements with an _AIM-4170C_ analyzer by KI4PMI and NC4FB demonstrated good SWR curves and bandwidth on 6, 10, 12, 17, 20, and 40 meters. The antenna was deemed unusable on 15 and 30 meters due to very high SWR, but an LDG AT-100PRO autotuner successfully brought 6 and 80 meters into tune. Contacts were made on 80, 40, 20, and 17 meters, including a **17-meter** contact to Spain. EZNEC models for 80-6 meters are provided, along with an AutoEZ model by AC6LA, which predicted good SWR for 80-10 meters. W5DXP's modifications for an all-band HF ZS6BKW are also referenced.

The electrical characteristics of an antenna that are of interest to obtain by direct measurement are the frequency at which the antenna is tuned, the gain and radiation pattern

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.

A 60-foot available space, for example, might necessitate a shortened multiband dipole array to cover 80, 40, and 15 meters effectively. This resource details the construction of such an antenna, combining full-size and coil-loaded dipoles on a single feedline. It addresses the common challenge of fitting multiple HF bands into restricted physical footprints, providing practical guidance for hams with smaller backyards or portable operations. The core of the offering is an interactive calculator that determines required loading coil inductance and dipole lengths for various amateur bands from 160m to 10m. Users input their available space, and the tool provides dimensions, coil turns, and an efficiency rating (Good or Fair) based on the antenna's electrical length relative to a quarter-wavelength. It also suggests suitable _PVC_ pipe diameters for coil forms. The article further illustrates a center feed-point assembly using an 18-inch section of 2-inch _PVC_ pipe, detailing eye-bolt spacing and coaxial connector installation. It emphasizes the importance of adequate spacing between parallel dipoles and offers customization options for the feed-point, including the addition of a _Balun_ for improved feedline isolation.

Dipole for 40m band. It is a simple linear loaded dipole feeded with 450-Ohm openwire feedline. Designed it for resonance at 7.050 MHz, can be tuned on 30m and 80m bands with an external antenna tuner. Build with simple electrical copper wire (2.5 mmq/13 awg) and two fishing poles with size of about 7 m/23 ft.

Showcasing German engineering, ANjo Antennen develops and manufactures a diverse portfolio of amateur radio and commercial antenna products. Their offerings span a wide frequency range from 1.8 MHz to 3000 MHz, emphasizing electrical and mechanical precision for longevity. The company actively participates in events like FUNK.TAG Kassel, providing opportunities for direct engagement and order pickup. ANjo's product line includes high-performance **Yagi antennas** optimized for Tropo and EME, along with multi-stacked Quad antennas designed for contest operations, featuring wide horizontal and narrow vertical beamwidths. They also produce circularly polarized satellite antennas, some with switchable LHCP/RHCP, leveraging their commercial satellite antenna expertise. Beyond amateur applications, ANjo provides flexible, custom antenna solutions for commercial sectors such as BOS, EMC measurements, and telemetry. Their commitment to quality is evident in the Premium-Line antennas, which utilize **1.4301 (V2A) stainless steel** for mast clamps and connectors, ensuring durability and corrosion resistance. They also offer end-fed HF multiband wire antennas, known for their compact footprint and discreet installation.

Demonstrates the construction and portable deployment of a 40-meter horizontal loop antenna, often referred to as a "Sky Loop" or "DX-Buster." The design adapts a full-wavelength horizontal loop for field use, eliminating the need for traditional insulators by employing four 5-meter heavy-duty _squid poles_ and metal post bases for support. This setup facilitates rapid assembly, crucial for portable operations, with the antenna wire length specified at approximately 43-45 meters for optimal 40-meter band performance. The resource details the specific construction methodology, including winding the antenna wire around rubber caps on the squid poles and securing it with electrical tape. It provides a parts list and assembly techniques, focusing on minimizing components for ease of transport and quick setup. The article, originally published in the February 2013 edition of the Central Coast ARC "Smoke Signals" magazine, reflects practical experience. This documentation offers a field-deployable 40-meter loop antenna solution, utilizing readily available components like fiberglass squid poles. It presents a practical approach for operators seeking a robust, portable antenna for the 40-meter band, emphasizing simplicity and efficiency in its design and deployment.

After owning the second-hand radio for a few months, it developed a sense wire failure, limiting output to 20 watts. Yaesu support advised the owner, an Electrical Engineer, to investigate. The issue was traced to a blown digital transistor, Q1032. Yaesu provided free replacements, revealing intricate internal components during the repair.