Search results

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.

Two Wire Beverage by Jeff Parke, describes a two-wire Beverage antenna design for improved reception with switchable direction (forward/backward) and lower noise level. It includes details on building the antenna, matching transformers, and a control box for selecting direction and connecting to the receiver.

Rolling your own transformers and chokes. Rewinding salvaged power transformers, considerations and step-by-step guide

There are lots of good designs for matching transformers for receiving antennas. Make it yourself it's cheap and easy, and very high performance. This is the design used in the TRX-9 transformers.

Communication Concepts, Inc. specializes in providing RF components for both amateur radio operators building their own gear and professionals prototyping circuit designs. The inventory includes a range of products such as HF and VHF amplifiers, splitter combiners, and various filters, catering to diverse applications from QRP to high-power systems. The site details specific components like _Freescale_ and _Motorola_ RF transistors, along with custom semi-rigid coaxial cable options. The offerings extend to parts for ATV, packet radio, and general electronic components, emphasizing quality and service since 1979. Customers can find items like low-pass filters for RFI/TVI mitigation and specialized transformers for RF power systems, covering frequencies from 2-30 MHz Type "H" to 1-80 MHz high-power applications. The resource highlights its role as a supplier for those constructing custom radio equipment, offering components that facilitate projects from basic radio kits to advanced amplifier designs, with a focus on enabling self-construction and cost-effective prototyping.

The design of Ruthroff broadband voltage transformers

Why Beverages need good transformers by VK3APN

This application note is designed to help the reader understand how balun transformers can be used in today's RF/Microwave communication applications.

Electronic components dealer, semiconductors, switches, leds, motors, solar energy, ferrites, toroids, capacitors, batteries, jacks and plugs, microphones, meters, power supplies, speakers, transformers, wire and more

A complete guide to Baluns and transformers by WK5AJL

In this article, the author discusses the importance of good transformers for Beverages, especially for common-mode isolation. The author recommends #43 ferrite for the transformer, and provides the turns required for different core types. The author also recommends using lower permeability ferrites for better performance at lower frequencies.

Practical applications for end-fed antenna transformers and safe, effective grounding

Online shop for all electronics needs. Cables, Buzzers all kind of electronic components capacitors, inductors, relays, resistors crystals transformers, hardware like knobs screws nuts and washers, opto electronics, diodes and transistors, soldering desoldering products, test equipmemt and tools

CWS ByteMark's Baluns (Balanced to Unbalanced) and Ununs (unbalanced to unbalanced) transformers are developed jointly with Dr. Jerry Sevick, W2FMI, who is known worldwide for his work on transmission line transformers

Quality amateur radio transformers and electrical supplies

TSC International produces soft magnetic sheet steel, custom-stamped and heat-treated to achieve optimal electrical characteristics for applications such as motors, generators, linear power supplies, and ballasts. The company's manufacturing process focuses on precise material engineering to meet specific performance requirements in various electrical systems. They also specialize in soft magnetic core materials essential for transformers, chokes, and inductors. These core materials are utilized in power supplies, lighting ballasts, signal conditioning circuits, inverters, and battery chargers, providing critical magnetic properties for efficient energy conversion and signal integrity. Located at 39105 Magnetics Blvd, Wadsworth, IL 60083-0399, TSC International provides contact via sales@tscinternational.com or phone at +1 (0) 847 249 4900, facilitating direct inquiries regarding their magnetic component offerings.

Practival project that contains two isolation transformers, one for AF from the tranciever to the line in on a soundcard, and one from the audio out of the soundcard back to the mic / data input of the radio. Both of which are variable inside the interface via two preset resistors.

Transmission Line 75 ohm to 50 ohm Transformers

Maker of filters, oscillators, cristals Coils, Toroidal Inductions, Solenoids, Bifilar wound Solenoids, Trifilar Solenoids and Transformers Located in Kansas City, Missouri

This is a QST Article published in January 1982 by W1FB D. Demaw and HH Beverage and is a complete review of the original article published in 1922, which updates and reivew the beverage antenna theory and developlment, explaining the antenna design of transformers and gives accurate reports on antenna general performance.

Manufacturer of transformers, inductors coils and chokes. Custom winding, EMI / RFI Filters, Antenna Windings on ferrite rod, Antenna Winding on phenolic. Any antenna coil designs.

The CAT and audio interface version 3 project by PA5CA presents a comprehensive solution for integrating amateur radio transceivers with computer sound cards, facilitating digital mode operation and CAT control. It includes detailed schematics for the interface circuitry, illustrating the isolation transformers for audio paths and optocouplers for CAT data lines, ensuring robust electrical separation between radio and PC. The resource also provides PCB layouts, enabling constructors to fabricate their own boards for this specific design. The project outlines the component selection and assembly process, emphasizing the use of readily available parts to build a reliable interface. It addresses common challenges in sound card interfacing, such as ground loops and RF interference, through its isolated design. This construction guide offers practical insights into building a functional interface, making it suitable for hams interested in DIY radio accessories for digital modes like FT8, RTTY, and PSK31.

Custom transformers by Mr. Dahl has been designing specialty transformers and reactors for over 35 years, and has been a licensed Ham radio operator, K0BIT, since 1955.

Power transformers for electronic, toroidals,three-phases

Use these Variac auto transformers for specific application requirements that include, but are not limited to, home coffee roasting, tube amps, and more.

Article about isolation transformer construction to perform optimal impedance matching. Winding the FCP isolation transformer, includes interesting table for Winding Turns and Lengths and Core Configurations for T300 T200 T400 toroids

Operating in a Single Operator Two Radios (SO2R) setup, especially with beverage antennas, often exposes the receiving radio's front-end to significant RF energy from the transmitting radio. This resource details a practical, homebrew receiver protection circuit designed to mitigate this risk. The core of the design involves a non-inductive 2W 22 Ohm carbon composition resistor in series with the RX antenna line, followed by two stacks of four fast-switching diodes (e.g., _1N914_) configured in opposite polarizations. This arrangement effectively clamps the incoming voltage to approximately 2.8 V peak-to-peak, safeguarding sensitive receiver input components. The series resistor plays a crucial role by absorbing excess power, preventing the diodes from exceeding their current ratings and potentially failing open, which would leave the receiver unprotected. The author, _N4KG_, measured up to 50 watts of coupled power between 80M slopers on the same tower, highlighting the necessity of such protection. The design is presented as a cost-effective solution to prevent damage to receiver input transformers, with the author noting successful protection of a receiver even after a resistor showed signs of overheating. This simple circuit can be integrated via a transverter plug, offering a robust defense against high RF input.

Documents S21RC's construction of an impedance transformer harness for a VHF/UHF cross yagi, utilizing 20m of _RG179_ cable. Details the creation of a DIY RF sampler with a -50dB sampling output, primarily for measuring HF radio PA section output with a Spectrum Analyzer, also applicable for _Pure Signal_ transmission. Chronicles the deployment of a 200m long beverage antenna for the _S21DX IOTA_ operation in 2022, positioned 2m above ground. Discusses the construction of a 3-element short beam for 10m to replace a previous 2-element antenna, with assistance from S21DW. Provides guidance on operating cheap _PA-70_ and _PA-100_ type Chinese SSPAs using IRF530 MOSFETs, emphasizing the necessity of a final LPF. Outlines the design and construction of a fully isolated interface for radio-to-computer connections, supporting various digital modes with isolated ground, audio transformers for IN/OUT, optical isolation for CAT/CIV, and isolated PTT/COS lines. Includes a log of software updates, such as the _HMI/TFT for NX8048K070_ and _2.1.14 Lite_ release with bug fixes for PEP hold and gradual watt decay.

Electronic Products Design Inc based in North Carolina, offers you custom design of transformers, coils, and telemetry control systems.

Operating within the low-frequency spectrum, transformers serve critical roles in antenna systems, particularly for 160m applications. The resource details the construction and performance of 1:1 transformers built on BN-73-202 cores, emphasizing their use as hybrid combiners or phase inverters for RX antenna arrays. Measurements reveal that these transformers exhibit minimal losses, around 0.12 dB at 1.8 MHz, with variations based on wire type and number of turns. The analysis includes comparative data on transformer performance, highlighting the impact of different winding techniques on frequency response. Notably, the use of coaxial cable for winding improves bandwidth while maintaining low-frequency efficiency. The resource also discusses braid breaker transformers, which minimize inter-winding capacitance, achieving low losses around 0.21 dB at 1.8 MHz. These insights are crucial for optimizing low-band antenna systems, allowing operators to make informed decisions regarding transformer design and implementation.

There are quite a few recipes for building a suitable transformer for an end fed half wave antenna (EFHW), but I was never sure I really understood the main principles. So, I wound a bunch of transformers, made measurements on them using my NanoVNA, learned how to get what I really wanted out of the VNA measurements, and in the process discovered how to build better transformers and be able to predict what they will do

This article clarifies the roles of baluns, ununs, common mode chokes, line isolators, and impedance transformers in amateur radio. A balun decouples balanced antennas from unbalanced feed lines, preventing interference. Ununs serve a similar purpose for asymmetrical antennas. Common mode chokes and line isolators suppress common mode currents, reducing noise. Impedance transformers adjust antenna impedance to match feed lines but do not decouple or suppress common mode currents. Understanding these components is crucial for optimizing antenna performance and minimizing interference.

Over 1000 _Elecraft_ KX2 owners have benefited from the Kx22 Heatsink, experiencing cooler rig temperatures and higher output powers. PAE manufactures these heatsinks, along with AC power supplies for HF transceivers, remote power relays, and Ethernet relays, with all machined products manufactured in the **USA**. PAE distributes _Fair-Rite_ Mix 31 ferrite snap-it cores and toroid cores, essential for RFI suppression and impedance matching in amateur radio setups. The product line also includes commercial monitoring antennas, UQUI transformers, ULP AC power filters, and 3M conductive adhesive copper tape, catering to various station build-out and maintenance needs. The AM1 Portable Antenna Mount System and its AM1-VA Multi-Angle Adapter offer flexible antenna deployment options. PAE ensures careful packing of fragile ferrite products, with shipping cost adjustments communicated post-order for larger, heavier combinations to guarantee safe delivery.

Chokes and isolation transformers are essential for receiving antennas to mitigate common mode current, which induces noise and interferes with signal quality. Common mode chokes, formed by winding feedline through ferrite cores, block unwanted current effectively. Proper selection of core material and winding turns ensures resonance near the operating frequency, reducing interference. Isolation transformers further minimize interference, crucial for multi-transmitter stations.

The author explores enhancing the performance of a 7-meter fiberglass squid pole wire antenna for amateur radio. The wire, resonant at 10MHz, poses impedance challenges on various bands. Experimenting with direct coax feed and UN-UN transformers, the LDG Z11-Pro2 auto-tuner is found effective but may show deceptive SWR readings. The author employs adjustable UN-UN ratios and introduces a custom "porcupine" coil to optimize the antenna's efficiency.

Building some proper matching transformer for loop on ground and Beverage antennas

Ferrite E-cores offer a practical solution for constructing baluns, especially when connectors are already mounted on cables. These cores, commonly used in mass-produced pulse transformers, allow for multiple turns without dismounting connectors, making them ideal for control and power supply cables. The material of E-cores is generally suitable for common mode baluns up to 15 MHz, providing a cost-effective option for amateur radio operators. E-cores can often be sourced from old switch-mode power supplies, adding to their appeal for those looking to utilize existing resources. A notable example involves a balun on a USB cable using a Ferroxcube E 32x16x9, 3F3 core with four turns, secured by three cable ties. This setup demonstrates the ease of construction and stability achievable with E-cores. Another example features a balun with eight turns of shielded cable with RCA connectors on the same core, achieving 140 uH inductance at low frequencies. The impedance plot for this configuration is measured between the shield ends, illustrating the effectiveness of E-cores in practical applications. The article includes detailed figures and descriptions, providing valuable insights into the construction and application of baluns using ferrite E-cores. These examples serve as a guide for amateur radio enthusiasts looking to enhance their setups with cost-effective and efficient solutions.

Integrating a _Software Defined Radio_ (SDR) into an existing ham radio setup involves connecting it with a standard transceiver (TRX), power amplifier (PA), and antennas. The core component is a splitter box that facilitates the connection between the TRX and the SDR, allowing for simultaneous operation without modifying existing equipment. In receive mode, the splitter ties the antenna inputs of both the TRX and a direct conversion receiver (DC RX) together. During transmission, the DC RX input is grounded via a fast telecom relay controlled by the transceiver's -SEND signal, incorporating a 10ms delay for safety. The splitter box includes a 3.7 dB input attenuator for impedance matching and acts as a protective fuse for the DC RX input. Ground loops are mitigated using common mode balun transformers, while the DC RX input is insulated with a broadband transformer. An audio switch box complements the setup, enabling users to listen to either the main transceiver, the SDR output, or both simultaneously. This configuration ensures noise immunity and safety, with the splitter housed in a screened box made from PCB material. On-air tests, such as the CQ WW 160m CW DX Contest, demonstrate the system's effectiveness, showcasing the SDR's ability to handle crowded band conditions with superior selectivity and dynamic range. The SDR's narrow bandwidth filters and waterfall display provide significant advantages, allowing operators to detect weak signals amidst strong interference. The integration of SDR with conventional radios offers enhanced operational flexibility and performance in challenging environments.

Details the construction and performance of a phase-controlled receiving array, specifically a **MicroSWA** variant, optimized for QRP low band fox hunting on 40M and 80M. The resource documents the author's iterative design process, addressing significant regional noise challenges encountered during 0100-0230 UTC fox hunt periods. Initial experiments involved a director wire on a 40M vertical, yielding limited improvement, prompting a shift towards advanced null-steering techniques. The project leverages concepts from Victor Misek’s "The Beverage Antenna Handbook" and Dallas Lankford’s extensive work on phased receiving antennas for urban lots. A key modification involved integrating a new passive phase control box and a push-pull **Norton common base preamp** using 2N5109 transistors, designed for high third-order intercept performance to maintain weak signal integrity amidst strong adjacent signals. The system incorporates Faraday-shielded transformers with RG174 primaries on -75 ferrite cores, housed in ABS plastic pipe. Performance tests confirmed the MicroSWA's ability to produce deep, steerable nulls, achieving approximately 30 dB noise reduction on 160M, 80M, and 40M. This enabled detection of QRP signals undetectable on conventional transmit antennas. The final unit includes front panel controls, a 10-11 dB preamp, and a robust power conditioner, demonstrating effective noise mitigation for challenging low band QRP operations.

Designing a collapsible 6-meter beam antenna involves careful consideration of element geometry and feedline matching, as demonstrated by VE3SMA's project. The construction draws inspiration from foldable dipole concepts and established wire beam designs like the Penn. State 40m beam and the DJ4SA Spiderbeam. Utilizing **4NEC2 modeling**, the author optimized element lengths for gain and bandwidth, observing the impact of end loops on resonant frequency and the need for compensation. Feeding the approximately 25-ohm balanced antenna with 50-ohm unbalanced cable required a specialized network. This setup incorporates a choke **balun** and a matching section built from two series quarter-wave transformers using readily available 75-ohm cable. On-the-air results validate the design, including a successful 1st double hop Es QSO with 10 Watts and satisfactory performance in the CW WW VHF Contest from FN05, where 41 grids were worked with 100 Watts, showing improved performance over a simple dipole.

This comprehensive article dispels common misconceptions about Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) in amateur radio. The author explains that SWR is not an antenna property but a measure of the entire antenna system, representing the mismatch between transmission line and load impedance. Contrary to popular belief, modest SWR values (under 3:1) typically cause minimal power loss in HF applications. The article demonstrates mathematically why obsession with achieving 1:1 SWR is often unnecessary, explains when SWR matters more (QRO, QRP, VHF/UHF), and explores effective matching techniques including proper ATU placement and quarter-wavelength transformers.

This FAQ covers building and buying transformers for loop-on-ground and Beverage antennas. Building one uses ferrite cores and thin wire. Buying is an option, with the DX Engineering BFS-1 being recommended. These transformers isolate the antenna from the cable to prevent unwanted signal pickup.

This page by Arctic Peak provides a detailed explanation on how to use quarter-wave transmission lines as impedance transformers in ham radio antenna work. It explains how to match impedance values by connecting them with a λ/4 transmission line. The page also offers guidance on constructing your own transmission lines with specific impedance requirements, along with a calculator to determine the quarter wave length based on velocity factor and frequency. Useful for hams looking to optimize antenna performance and match transmission line impedance effectively.