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Showing posts from May, 2018

Stealth Antenna Setup. Post #1509.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXzOrw4TUQc. An impressive "antenna farm" from the "Fishing Ham."  Although his outside HF antennas are by no means stealthy, his VHF/UHF antennas in the attic are impressive and completely out of view. The antenna arrangement includes a W3EDP for lower HF use; a vertical dipole for higher HF bands; a DK7ZB 5-element 2 meter beam, homebrews 432/222/1296 MHz yagis; a homebrews 6 meter moxon antenna; and a homebrew log periodic HDTV antenna that can be used on 900 MHz.  Hopefully, this installation will give you some new  antenna ideas. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. https://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. h

Multiband HF Portable Antenna, the easy way. Post #1508.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofmUK8o7Jxg. Nicely done video tutorial from "rcobo 101" (AC2RJ) on how to design, build, and use a multiband HF portable vertical antenna.  The material list is short:  35 feet/10.67 meters of speaker wire wrapped as a helix around a 20 foot/16.097 meters fiberglass pole, a sturdy tripod, an antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner"), a basic ground radial system, a CW key, portable power, and a suitable HF transceiver.  My current vertical at my home station is a variation of this design using 65 feet/19.81 meters of speaker wire mounted as a vertical helix on a 33 foot/10.06 meters telescoping fiberglass pole.  I use 450 ohm ladder line to feed the antenna, which is, in turn, connected to a 4:1 current balun/coax cable combination connected to my trusty Drake MN-4 "tuner."  A modest set of 8 quarter wave radials cut for 7.088 MHz c

Rebuild MFJ-1622 Apartment Antenna for Ham Radio HF. Post #1507.

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If you can't see the video, please enter this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSOt9KRooek. The MFJ-1622 Apartment Antenna has been around for several years, and can be modified to improve its performance on any Amateur Radio band from 40 meters through 2 meters.  The antenna is a good choice for those of use operating in deed-restricted properties governed by HOAs and CC&Rs. In this well-thought out tutorial, "North Carolina Prepper" shows us how to improve the basic design of the MFJ-1622 so it performs at a higher level. I have one of these antennas for portable and emergency use, and  find the antenna works a lot better if you replace the coax feed line with RG-8X and attach a radial wire for each band of use. Of course, changing the tap on the coil would be the first step in upgrading this antenna, but using better coax and using a few radial wires wouldn't hurt, either.  The video does an excellent job of mak

Cheap, Quick, Easy to Build, Works Great QRP Portable Antenna. Post #1506,

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyZbQEUtyE4. Here's a simple, easy to make HF antenna suitable for home station, portable, or emergency use.  According to Tinker John (W5CYF), all you need are some old headphone cases, a few lengths of wire, and a few pieces of equipment from your shack to build this inexpensive HF antenna.  Although this project was designed for the 20 meter Amateur Radio band (cut for 14.200 MHz), you could scale a similar antenna for any band between 160 and 10 meters.  This antenna should be part of your emergency "go-kit" when disaster strikes. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://a

Build a Portable 10 Meter Yagi Antenna. Post #1505.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJ5aYxLzJyM. Here's another interesting video from Dave Tadlock (KG0ZZ).  This time, Dave shows us how to make a simple 2 element yagi antenna for the 10 meter Amateur Radio band.  By following Dave's step-by-step instructions, you'll have a fully functioning 10 meter yagi in time for the upcoming ARRL Field Day (23-24 June 2018).  The antenna is suitable for both home and portable use. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://amateurradionewsinformation.com (Amateur Radio News & Information). https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today

Field Day Antennas. Post #1504.

Field Day Antennas. Post #1504. https://www.dxzone.com/best-field-day-antenna/ Accessed on 26 May 2018, 1910 UTC, Post #1504. Please click link to read the full article. Comment: With the ARRL Field Day fast approaching (23-24 June 2018), it's time to consider what kind of antennas will be suitable for your field day site, whether you operate alone or with an amateur radio club. Emergency and portable antennas should be simple, easy to make, portable, and offer good performance. Our friends at https://www.dxzone.com have compiled a list of what they call "13 Cool Ideas for Your Field Day Antenna."  Most of these antennas can be made in the "field" with commonly available materials. Here's the list for your consideration: End fed halfwave antenna for 6/40 meters from EARC--Hawaii's Emergency Amateur Radio Club . Smith Windom Six Band HF Windom Antenna from K3MT. Vertical Antenna for 20-15-10 m from F5ZV. KN5L Field Day Vertical

How to build a three element beam antenna for 2 meters. Post #1503.

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If you can't see the video, please enter this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8RVqsdnKow. If you need a simple, inexpensive, and effective 3 element 2 meter yagi antenna for the ARRL Field Day (23-24 June 2018), then this video from "Prepping Ohio" is just the thing you need.  "Prepping Ohio" made this portable 2 meter yagi from materials he found around his home and immediate neighborhood.  According to "Prepping Ohio", the homebrewed antenna "worked surprisingly well...I was able to make several qsos on only 1 watt."  A basic, practical, and simple antenna suitable for both home and field use. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com.

Field Day 2016-Amateur Radio Field Operations, Post #1502.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSpXqb9sP5s. The ARRL Field Day is set for 23-24 June 2018.  Thousands of radio amateurs from the U.S., Canada, and North America are expected to participate in one of the largest communications exercises in the world. If you need some equipment and antenna ideas for your club or individual effort, please check out this short video taken at the Vienna Wireless Society's Amateur Radio Field Day site in Fairfax, Virginia.  This club has assembled an impressive array of HF/VHF/UHF antennas, modern transceivers, and reconditioned emergency vehicles to illustrate its emergency preparedness. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com

Nocks for 2m Quad Antennas. Post #1501.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kojw_-z39z0. Quad antennas do very well on VHF and UHF bands.  However, the survivability of the antenna corners is limited in areas where severe wind or weather prevails. In this video from Dave Tadlock (KG0ZZ), we see how simple kite or arrow nocks can strengthen the corners of a 2 meter quad and add more life to this versatile antenna.  Dave has produced a series of video tutorials on quads for 2 m and 70 cm applications.  Each video provides a step-by-step process you can follow to make an effective and sturdy antenna for both home and portable use. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these web sites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. http

Homebrew 2M Moxon Antenna Project. Post #1500.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEWb_H2m5k4. An excellent video tutorial from Paul Athersmith on how to design, build, adjust, and use a 2M Moxon Antenna.  Two-meter Moxon Antennas are simple, efficient, and easy to build. They are light weight and ideal for portable or home use.  Try one out for the upcoming ARRL Field Day on 23-24 June 2018. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these web sites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://amateurradionewsinformation.com (Amateur Radio News & Information). http://www.southgatearc.org. https://www.eham.net. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

6 antennas for 6 meters. Post #1499.

6 antennas for 6 meters. Post #1499, https://www.dxzone.com/6-antenna-for-6-meters/ Accessed on 22 May 2018, 0021 UTC, Post #1499. Please click link or enter title into your browser search box to read the complete article. Comment: If you want to try a new antenna for the upcoming ARRL Field Day on 23-24 June 2018, try some of these simple, inexpensive 6 meter antennas.  Depending on solar activity and propagation, the "Magic Band (50 MHz)" can offer some suprising DX.  These portable 6 meter antennas can be used at home or in the field. Here are the six antenna projects for the "Magic Band": 6 meter J-Pole by W8CWE. 50 MHz, 6-element yagi by G3PR. The Six Meter OCF Sleeve Dipole Vertical by N1GY K0FF's 6 meter sloper. 7-element Quad for 50 MHz by SP5LGN. 6 meter Moxon Rectangle Antenna by KG4JJH. Good luck on your new antenna! For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.inf

Make Your Own FM Vertical Sleeve Coax Antenna. Post #1498.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hK0KX0YcvH0. Do you want better performance from your HT or other FM gear? Then disconnect the stock "Rubber Ducky" antenna that came with your HT and use this design from "electronicsNmore" instead.  All you need to make this vertical sleeve 1/2 wave coax antenna is some 50 ohm coaxial cable with copper shielding, a small diameter brass or copper tube,solder and rosin flux, a bit of heat-shrink tubing, and a SWR meter to help you trim the length of the antenna. This project is perfect for clubs, portable and field operations, and casual use. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnew

Budget Solar Power for the Ham Radio Shack. Post #1497.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wu6x37O1O-k. Most radio amateurs who participate in the annual ARRL Field Day communications exercise rely on some form of alternate energy to keep their stations on the air.  One of the popular choices for emergency power backup is solar power in the form of panels mounted near your Amateur Radio station. In this video, Julian (OH8STN) shows us how to set up a tower-mounted solar panel system, including charge controllers and a "repurposed" battery for providing power during a "grid down" emergency. Julian believes emergency communications should not only be designed for field use but also for your home station.  One never knows when commercial power mains may be rendered inoperable. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.a

Ham Radio Backyard Setup Field Day. Post #1495.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Mgd06UAHbU. The ARRL Field Day is coming to the last full weekend of June (23-24 June 2018).  Radio amateurs from around the world participate in this emergency communications exercise to sharpen their technical and antenna skills.  Field Day is also one of the biggest contests of the year, with contacts ranging from amateur satellites to the most exotic digital modes.  And, yes, the act of getting out in the outdoors and operating with solar power, homemade antennas, and low-powered rigs is a lot of fun. As this video from "motoforlyfe" explains, you don't have to join a club to participate in this annual summer event.  You can operate from your home using your backyard as your playing field.  I've operated from my home several times when work requirements precluded travel to my club's field day site.  This video does an excellent jo

The 6 meter Delta Loop Tutorial. Post #1496.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZkWPP13S6k. An interesting, well-thought out, and easy to follow tutorial on how to make an effective, simple Delta Loop Antenna for the 6-Meter Amateur Radio band. M0ZMF and G3RCW have produced a totally clear and understandable method of designing, building, and using an antenna that produces excellent results on "The Magic Band."  The antenna doesn't use much space, so it can be mounted in your backyard with room to spare.  Try this antenna.  You won't be disappointed. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://amateurradionewsinformation.com (Amateur Radio News & In

Magnetic Loop Transmitting Antenna. Post #1494.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser searchbox: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMCKOHyfeJ0. Here's an interesting magnetic loop antenna from Peter Parker (VK3YE) when he first started experimenting with this type of HF antenna.  According to Peter, this "compact magnetic loop antenna (is) capable of operation on all amateur radio bands between 160-10 meters."  Although the efficiency is quite low, Peter was able to make solid contacts from his backyard with this experimental transmitting loop. Peter says the feed line "connects directly to the copper tube which has a tapping point for the coax inner...other builders use a second smaller loop inside." If you have restricted space for a multiband HF antenna, you may want to try Peter's antenna. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please check these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast w

A Home-based outdoor Field Day Station. Post #1493.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeumSDLXBKM. If you can't join your Amateur Radio Club for this year's ARRL Field Day (23-24 June 2018), why not go solo and set up camping-based single station for the event. In this video "Outdoors On The Air" mounted a small, one-man Field Day station in his back yard for the 2014 event.  He did rather well, making 135 contacts on 40, 20, and 15 meters with a few end-fed wire antennas. There are special categories for single-operator stations, including mobile, battery-powered, or commercially powered arrangements.  Be sure to bring plenty of coffee and snacks--it will be a long, intense night. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bi

160 Meter Inverted L Antenna. Post #1492.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch>v=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWZZlpHJKT8. Another way to get on 160 meters on a medium-sized urban lot is to design and build a simple 160 Meter Inverted L Antenna.  In this video from Bob Holowenko, we see how he built an effective 160 Meter Inverted L Antenna from 127 feet/38.719 meters of wire, six-127 feet/39.719 meters radials, and "a pile of random wire, including a fence."  You may find Bob's antenna a good start for your 160 meter antenna. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: https://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://amateurradionewsinformation.com (Amateur Radio News & Information). Be sure to check the blog sidebars an

Ham Radio 40/80/160 Meter Inverted V Dipole Antenna. Post #1491.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLhNUmolKKY. Dave Tadlock (KG0ZZ) does an excellent job of taking us through the theory, design, construction, and use of a multiband V dipole antenna covering the 40, 80, and 160 meter amateur radio bands.  Like the previous post by Peter Parker (VK3YE), Dave takes a 40 meter dipole or inverted V and adds more bands by means of loading coils, carefully chosen element lengths, and optimal height to give us multiband capabilities without the use of an antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner"). While there is some loss of efficiency and bandwidth, this antenna brings you the opportunity of operating on lower HF bands with just one antenna structure.  Dave adds that this antenna can fit in most urban lots with a little pre-planning.  A good, overall HF antenna for this age of marginal propagation. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, ple

Adding 80 metres to a 40 metre dipole. Post #1490.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v-4kRz6fPFKY. Here's an easy, inexpensive way to add the 80 meter amateur radio band to your existing 40 meter dipole antenna.  With the solar cycle heading towards the bottom, lower HF frequencies, such as 80 and 160 meters, become dependable, viable bands for radio amateurs. In this video, Peter Parker (VK3YE) uses end loading coils to make a 7 MHz dipole operate on 3.5 MHz.  If you're willing to sacrifice some efficiency and bandwidth, this antenna modification will get you on the air quickly from your home QTH. Here are some observations from Peter regarding overall design and construction suggestions for this antenna transformation: "A 7 MHz dipole made to operate on 3.5 MHz by adding end loading coils. It won't be as efficient as a full sized 80m dipole and the bandwidth will be narrow. However it will get you on the air from a s

Horizontal Loop Antenna Experiments. Post #1489.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLq3nBQppqg. If you want a good general coverage HF antenna that exhibits low noise, please consider the horizontal loop. In this video, Rob Wagner (VK3BVW) describes the large horizontal loop used at his QTH.  He compares the design, installation, and noise reduction capabilities of this antenna with several of his dipole antennas. Rob's horizontal loop is large (43 meters/141.04 feet for each of its four sides--a total of 172 meters/564.16 feet for the complete antenna), making this antenna suitable for several amateur radio bands from 160 to 10 meters.  Depending on the type of feed line used, you can either design the loop for single band or multiband purposes.  An antenna transmatch or "tuner" is needed for the antenna to reach its most efficient operation. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websi

Building an Emergency Ham Radio Go Box. Post #1488.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch/v=_3qS6QYQWjQ. Every radio amateur operator should have a "go box" or "go kit" ready for emergency, portable, or disaster response. In this video, "BluegrassMedia" show us how he assembled his go box from material found in his neighborhood.  The only criticism I have about this otherwise excellent tutorial is the failure of the maker to wear eye and body protection during the painting process. This go box is sturdy, light weight, and totally portable--a good candidate for the upcoming ARRL Field Day in June. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please check these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://amateurradionewsinformation.com (Amateu

Tilted Terminated Folded Dipole. Post #1487.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Batw43uoQ9I. Here's an antenna you don't see very often--The T2FD (Tilted Terminated Folded Dipole).  This antenna is well-suited for small urban lots and can be used as a horizontal dipole, a sloper,or even as an inverted vee dipole antenna. In this short video, "SpectreOZ" shows his T2FD from design to installation, featuring a 10 watt terminating resistor made from 4, 5 watt 390 ohm resistors in a series parallel circuit.  The circuit is joined to a 4:1 balun, which is encased in pvc pipe for stability and weather resistance. If you feel in an experimental mood, why not try this classic HF antenna in your backyard? For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradio

An Indoor VHF Delta Loop. Post #1486.

An Indoor Delta Loop. Post #1486. http://www.k2zs.com/indoor-vhf-antennas/vhf-delta-loop Author: Scott (K2ZS). Accessed on 09 May 2018, 0225 UTC, Post #1486. Don't let restrictive housing covenants (HOAs/CC&Rs) stop you from enjoying VHF/UHF activities in your area.  If you follow the suggestions from Scott (K2ZS), you'll have an efficient, effective VHF/UHF antenna that can operate indoors out of the earshot of noisy neighbors. Scott's VHF Delta Loop is easy to build and can be for both home and field use. Scott's article discusses the following topics: General design characteristics of the VHF Delta Loop. Construction procedures. Feed point connectivity Polarization. Weak signal use. I've built a few of these delta loop antennas for 2 meters and they work very well. According to Scott, you can't beat the price and convenience of this homemade antenna: There is no need to spend money for some special antenna that claims to be the be

The Mighty Rhombic, The King of Antennas (AD #128). Post #1485.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmW1Oisao-I. A wonderfully done video on one of the true "monster" antennas of all time.  During the 1930s and 1940s, powerful HF shortwave stations, including the ARRL HQ station (W1AW) used this high gain antenna to reach distant points of the globe.  Nowadays, the rhombic is becoming a historical curiosity in favor of modern sterba arrays which can be a bit more efficient and switchable to various HF bands. In this video, David Casler (KE0OG) delves into the theory, construction, and use of this once popular antenna, citing its "phenominal directivity and extraordinary low elevation angle" as a definite plus for point-to-point HF service. If you have the space, build one of these classic antennas--you won't be disappointed. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.arrl.o

Backyard Inverted-L Antenna. Post #1484.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wq4A9skU3Zs. Here's a simple inverted-L antenna that works well between 40 and 10 meters.  According to Craig Sheppard, the antenna is about 58 feet/17.68 meters long and 24 feet/7.31 meters high at the branch supporting the top of the antenna.  The longer section is terminated at a post  between 6-7 feet/1.87-2.13 meters high at the far end.  Don't forget to install a good ground radial or counterpoise system to maximize efficiency and reduce RFI and SWR. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://amateurradionewsinformation.com (Amateur Radio News & Information). https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgate

Portable Amateur Radio Satellite Antenna. Post #1483.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0niy7Sy96Q. In this informative and easy-to-understand video, Dave Tadlock (KG0ZZ) takes us step-by-step through the design, construction, and use of a small, hand-held portable Amateur Radio dual band (2 meter/70 cm) satellite antenna.  While this antenna is a bit complex, Dave's building process and suggestions will make assembly fairly simple.  This antenna is suitable for both home and portable use.  Use this antenna to copy Amateur Radio satellites during the upcoming ARRL Field Day on 23-24 June 2018.  For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://amateurradionewsinformation.com (Amateur Radio News & Informa

Ultimate Bugout Bag Radio. Post #1482.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDYSF5KAA8M. In this video, Julian (OH8STN) discusses the ultimate survival communications radio, the features it has, what makes it so useful, and how it can provide reliable contact when you're out in the field. In Julian's view, the "ultimate survival radio" must be low cost, multi-band capable, low weight, sturdy, and battery-powered.  Julian uses the popular Yaesu FT-817 series of transceivers to illustrate his point.  He also refers to several portable antennas that can be used in field or emergency operations.  Overall, this video is an excellent introduction to survival communications. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. http

Roll Up Slim Jim Antenna for Emergency & Preparedness. Post #1481.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=196-sS2yYak. If you need an efficient, easy to use portable 2 m/70 cm antenna for field or emergency use, please consider the "Slim Jim" VHF/UHF antenna from Nelson Antennas.  In this video, Coach Helder (W2NTC) discusses the indoor and outdoor use of this antenna for emergency and preparedness communications.  Testing was done with a Yaesu VX-8DR transceiver. Of course, you could always build your own version of this versatile antenna.  But, if you want to have a ready-made 2 m/70 cm antenna that works right out of the box, then consider the antenna described in this video.  It certainly doesn't hurt to have a spare antenna in your shack or vehicle. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday

Ham Radio HF/VHF Antenna Lengths Chart. Post #1480.

Ham Radio HF/VHF Antenna Lengths Chart. Post #1480. http://www.hamuniverse.com/hamantennalengths.html. Author:  N4UJW (http://www.hamuniverse.com. Accessed on 03 May 2018, 0436 UTC, Post #1480. Please click link to read the full article. Comment: N4UJW from http://www.hamuniverse.com has created a handy, useful, and easy-to-understand chart for those building their own HF and VHF antennas.  You can use this chart to determine the lengths of 1/4 wave verticals, 1/2 wave dipoles, and full wavelength loop antennas.  Antenna calculations are based on the general formula 468/F(MHz)=Length in feet.  Loop antennas follow the general formula1005/F(MHz)=Length in feet.  Copy this chart and file it with your antenna documents. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these web sites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). http://www.southgatearc.org. https://www.eham.net.

40 Meter Inverted V Antenna-Build, Tune & Test. Post #1479.

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If you can't view the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbq1UgwM_go. What started out as a "snow day" project for Barbara Justice and her children ended up as a 40 meter/20 meter fan dipole configured as an inverted V antenna.  Barbara says a few modifications also allowed her to use the antenna on 40-20-15-10 and 6 meters.  Despite the antennas low height above ground, the overall results of this winter activity produced a useful, multiband HF antenna at a modest cost. The video takes you-step-by-step through the building, configuration, and use of this versatile antenna.  The assembly process is organized, efficient, and simple.  Just follow the instructions and you'll have an efficient multiband HF antenna in just a few hours. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which