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Showing posts from March, 2019

My Kit for SOTA/Portable Amateur Radio. Post 1822.

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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=nkiht95YCP4. If you enjoy portable field operations, why not become active in the SOTA (Summits On The Air) program?  In this video, SOTA enthusiast James (M0JCQ) shows us his standard, "bare bones" kit for HF SOTA/Portable Operations.  This kit is simple, inexpensive, and thoroughly portable.  Even if you aren't into hiking up mountains and hills in your area, this minimalist HF set up can serve as a home emergency station should the need arise.  With the exception of James's Elecraft KX3 transceiver, most of the materials for this "go-kit" can be found at the nearest home improvement center or electrical equipment outlet. James also mentions the importance of taking your amateur radio license with you in case someone asks what you're doing on top of a mountain. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please vi...

Radials on Vertical Antenna Systems. Post 1821.

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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=bo302ABvOro. Thanks to Dan Vanevenhoven for this excellent tutorial on radials for vertical antenna systems.  Dan begins the video with some basic vertical antenna theory and then shows us how theory translates into practice for a commercial AM broadcast station.  As you can see, radial systems for the MW AM broadcast band can number as high as 120 to 360 ground wires and consume a large chunk of real estate. For radio amateurs, the demands of a ground radial or counterpoise system are more modest.  The idea is to place as many radial wires as you have space, budget, and wire to do so.  Dan does a good job of explaining how radials increase antenna efficiency without getting too technical.  Basically, radial wires supply the "missing half" of a vertical antenna.  Depending on frequency and space availability, you may want to try an "...

Homebrew vertical antenna 40m band by YC2YIZ. Post 1820.

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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=HXsYbp-lEt0 If you need a small, "stealth-like" antenna for the 40 meter ham band, then this center-loaded design from Edy Karsano (YC2YIZ) may be your answer.  Edy takes us through the design, building, and tuning process of this portable 40 meter vertical antenna.  He used a MFJ Antenna Analyser to make SWR adjustments to the antenna.  Although the antenna covers the 40 meter ham band, it can also work on the 15 meter ham band, using the third harmonic of the 40 meter band.  When you complete this easy project, you will have 2 antennas for the price of one. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawa...

Feed-point Connector for Inverted V Dipole Antenna. Post 1819.

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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=4uPk0lAEwhc. Here's a simple, effective way to strengthen the feed-point connection for an inverted V Dipole Antenna.  Dave Turlock (KG0ZZ) takes us step-by-step through the design and construction process for this handy antenna accessory.  Be sure to protect the connector against the weather with paint or some other water-resistant substance. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

Hamstick Dipole set-up at WA0FSE - July 9 2016. Post 1818.

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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=w5YdTarpDHU A "Hamstick" Dipole from MFJ (HF-Stick) makes a nice, simple, portable antenna suitable for both home and field use.  In this video, WA0FSE and WX0V show us how to trim the antenna and set it up for use.  The only materials you would have to find would be a tripod, a short telescoping fiberglass rod, some coaxial feed line, and a dipole connector mating two MFJ "HF-Sticks".  Other than speaking into the backside of a microphone, initial testing of this antenna went extremely well.  Antenna experiments are a great way to learn about propagation, SWR, bandwidth, and general antenna theory.  I liked this video because of its "down to earth" and easy to understand instructions.  Yes, like our intrepid antenna experimenters, I have also used the wrong end of the microphone at times.  We're only human. For the latest ...

Windom antenna: building and testing. Post 1817.

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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=n6e4P27FGTE Nebojsa Kovacevic has done an excellent job of presenting the advantages and disadvantages of the "classic" Windom antenna.  Nebojsa takes us step-by-step through the design, construction, and use of this multiband, off-center fed dipole antenna.  One of the downsides of the classic Windom antenna is the length required for proper operation. In this video, Nebojsa has sufficient space to cover at least six amateur radio bands.  Although his design doesn't require an antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner"), it may be a good idea to use one to keep SWR low and reduce RF on the antenna feed line. 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:...

Building a 40 Meter Rotatable Dipole. Post 1816.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1fs-zYCfRY A very nice and well-organized video tutorial from Jonathan Charles as he shows us the steps needed to construct a rotatable 40 meter dipole.  According to Jonathan, he used parts from MFJ HyGain, MFJ Cushcraft, Texas Towers, M2, and his local hardware store to build this impressive all metal dipole antenna.  At an elevation of 85 feet/25.91 meters on his tower, the antenna will perform quite well.  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://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. https://www.eham.net. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM...

Adding 80 metres to a 40 metre dipole. Post 1815.

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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=4kXRz6fPFKY. If you live on a small urban lot, erecting a full-sized 80 meter dipole antenna will present a difficult challenge.  According to Australian ham Peter Parker (VK3YE), a simple 40 meter dipole antenna can be modified to work at 3.5 MHz (80 meters) by adding end-loading coils.  Although the "transformed" antenna won't be as efficient as a full-length 80 meter dipole, it will get you on the air with a somewhat narrower bandwidth.  Peter's adaptation comes from an original design by VK5AH. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://...

Homebrew EH antenna for 40M band. Post 1814.

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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=DWR5d7t0WAw Here's an interesting antenna experiment from Paul (OM0ET).  In this video, Paul builds an EH antenna for the 40 meter band--the antenna is based on a design by WB5CXC (SK). Although the build was successful, Paul admits that the antenna may be of questionable value, since "this antenna has the problem of a strong returning RF in to coax...this is a big problem with resonant frequency stability due to this problem...This is the reason why I never tryed (sic) this antenna in a real outdoor conditions (sic)." Of course, your results will vary, depending on the materials used and the general environment in which the antenna is placed.  If you need a better and perhaps  safer antenna, please try a magnetic loop or indoor loop antenna. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.Ha...

Palm sized L match antenna coupler. Post 1813.

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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=8RXjTKMGfHU Australian radio amateur Peter Parker (VK3YE) has designed a small, inexpensive, and lightweight antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner" or "coupler") for end-fed random length "long wire antennas."  This "palm-sized" L "tuner" covers 7 to 30 MHz and is suitable for QRP home or field operations.  Peter supplies a helpful schematic diagram to help with design and construction of this useful antenna accessory. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks f...

QRP/ SOTA Ultimate 40-6M All Band Antenna from W1SFR

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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=i-mj1Iyox9Y If you need a simple, effective antenna for portable, emergency, or even home use, then this homebrew end-fed long wire antenna from Steve Roberts (W1SFR) may be your answer.  This handy, well-made antenna is perfect for an emergency "go-kit", camping, or for use in deed-restricted housing (HOAs/CC&Rs).  All you need is some 14-18 AWG wire, a launching method, a small antenna "tuner", a basic ground radial or counterpoise system, and a QRP rig.  All of this material can be packed in a small box and saved for your next "field" operation. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamr...

Hint and Tips for Telescopic Fiberglass Poles. Post 1811.

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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=vbUQQm0UDQ0 VK5STU and his daughters Emma and Charlotte show us several ways to mount, secure, and protect the telescoping fiberglass poles many of us use to support our portable and home station antennas.  All of these helpful suggestions make our operating life a bit easier when we use fiberglass masts for field or emergency operations.  VK5STU urges us to protect the telescoping sections and their joints from weather and wind.  Those of us living in the tropics (including myself who calls Hawaii Island home) are familiar with just how much damage the sun, salt air, and volcanic fumes can do to support structures such as these fiberglass poles. I found the steps taken to prevent the thinnest part of the pole from collapsing into the interior section of the mast most helpful.  A simple cored loop will keep the tip of the mast from "getting ...

Ham Radio - The back yard vertical part 4. Installing and testing the a...Post 1810.

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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=wYrvqI3-Nxs Now that we have joined Kevin Loughin (KB9RLW) in the process of preparing our home made backyard HF vertical antenna, it's time to install and test our product.  In the 3 previous segments, we learned how to design, plan, and assemble the various parts of this experimental antenna, and, now, we are ready to put the antenna on the air. In this video, Kevin reminds us that this installation is only experimental, subject to final testing and a thorough review of safety precautions before we turn on our HF transceivers. So, how does this antenna work?  According to Kevin, "It's finally up and working...And working very well!  I've made many contacts on it an had the best signal reports I've ever received, especially on 75-90 meters." If you have limited space and little cash, you may want to try this simple, efficient, ...

Ham Radio - The back yard vertical part 3. Winding the 1:1 common mode c...Post 1809.

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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=9kY2rz2jizs This video is part three of four segments showing how to build a backyard HF vertical antenna.  Kevin Loughin (KB9RLW) does an excellent job of taking us from antenna concept and design to actual construction and testing of this simple, efficient HF antenna.  In part 1, we get an overall plan for the antenna; in part 2, we begin building the 9:1 UnUn; and in part 3, we learn how to make a 1:1 common mode choke to keep stray RF off the feed line.  Part 4 will integrate all parts of the antenna into a final building project for the vertical antenna. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii....

Ham Radio - The back yard vertical antenna part 2, Winding the 9:1 UnUn. Post 1808.

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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=VAV9Wws-Bs0 This is part 2 of Kevin Loughin's (KB9RLW) backyard vertical antenna project.  In part 1, Kevin outlined the design and construction parameters for this simple, effective antenna. In part 2, Kevin shows us how to build the 9:1 UnUn for the antenna.  Kevin takes you step-by-step through the building process so you won't make a mistake in putting the UnUn together.  Kevin will integrate these parts into the full antenna in parts 3 and 4. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks fo...

Ham Radio - My back yard HF vertical antenna build part 1. The Plan. Post 1807.

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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=-AjsRoajjO8 This well-made video tutorial from Kevin Loughin (KB9RLW) is part one of a four-part series on the design, construction, tuning, and use of a homemade HF vertical antenna.  Part one of this series discusses the design and plan of the HF vertical, while part two shows how to build the 9:1 UnUn and 1:1 current balun used for the antenna.  Kevin does an excellent job of taking us step-by-step through the entire design and planning process.  Subsequent videos will refine the design and show us how to get on the air with this simple, effective antenna. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii....

SOTA Antenna Ideas. Post 1806.

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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=wpxLATs0FIo This video from John Saunders (VK4BZ) provides several options for radio amateurs looking for simple, effective, inexpensive, and thoroughly portable antennas for SOTA (Summits On The Air) and home use.  John does an excellent job of showing several antennas he has used in a variety of portable operations, including verticals, dipoles, and end-fed random length wires.  Most of these antennas can be made from locally available materials. John does a thorough job of describing the advantages and disadvantages of each antenna, so you choose the one that best suits your requirements.  These antennas can be adapted for use in deed-restricted properties, where easy set up and take down are a must. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http:/...

40 Meter Fishing Pole Antenna. Post 1805.

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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=PXg7ZOAkDyg I really enjoyed this video from Denis (VK3BF).  I've built a few variations of this portable antenna for several amateur/ham radio bands from 80 meters through 10 meters. All have worked very well considering the limitations of compromise antennas. In this video, Denis shows us how to make an easy, inexpensive portable antenna for 40 meters and other bands.  Denis says the materials for this project are readily available.  Components include a Shakespeare telescoping carbon fiber fishing pole from Amazon, a LDG 4:1 balun, 33 feet-9 inches/10.289 meters of 18 gauge speaker wire, and various miscellaneous pieces.  Although an antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner") isn't required, it may help solve any minor SWR issues found with this antenna. I have several of these fishing pole antennas at my ham shack for portable and emergency u...

The random length end fed HF antenna and you. Post 1804.

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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=a0hCtmbD5as In this short video, Brett from "Survival Comms" shows us how to design, build, and use a simple multiband HF random length wire antenna with readily available materials.  The key to the antenna's success is a 9:1 UNUN, an antenna "tuner", and a good ground or counterpoise system.  Make one of these antennas for your emergency "go-kit."  A properly designed random length wire antenna can be used for portable or home operations. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.com....

Going around in circles 1: An attempt at an end-fed vertical beam antenna. Post 1803.

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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=5CdqVc0fuWk. Here's another antenna idea which is both simple to make and even easier to set up and take down.  In this video, Australian radio amateur Peter Parker (VK3YE) experiments with a homebrew end-fed vertical beam antenna for the 10 meter amateur radio band (28 MHz).  The antenna works fairly well considering its limitations.  You could modify the antenna into a phased vertical antenna system or convert some extra wire into a half-square antenna for additional directivity and gain.  A nice, simple, inexpensive antenna for portable and at-home 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawai...

How to Pull Images from Satellites in Orbit (NOAA 15,18,19 and METEOR M2). Post 1802.

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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=cjClTnZ4Xh4. A beautifully done video nearly ruined by an overly loud music track. The video does an excellent job of showing us how to pull images from 4 weather satellites in Orbit, including NOAA 15, 18, 19 and METEOR M2, by using a SDR (software defined radio).  Other than the imbalance between narration and music, the video is a good introduction to the use of weather satellites for both commercial and amateur/ham radio 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today. Alo...

Antennas 101 / How does an antenna work. Post 1801.

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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=oiBi9RbNBUY. This video from "0033mer" does an exceptionally good job of explaining basic antenna theory in terms anyone can understand.  The use of a bagel and a small "rubber duck" mobile antenna to illustrate radiation patterns is a stroke of genius. The video describes how antennas work and the properties of different configurations, including the common dipole and 1/4 wave monopole.  With this basic knowledge established, the video shows you how to build your own monopole antenna.  This video is a simple, accurate, and practical introduction to antennas.  The video would make a great presentation to an amateur/ham radio license class.  Place a copy of this well-done program in your ham radio reference library. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://w...

Ham radio HF stealth dipoles ON-AIR test and review. Post 1800.

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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=7rujoKVOhK8. Radio amateurs living in deed-restricted housing (HOAs/CC&Rs) face difficult choices when it comes to designing and building efficient antennas for their ham shacks. In this video, the "HamRadioConcepts" video channel shows us several simple, inexpensive, and effective stealth HF dipoles that can be used both at home stations and in the field.  These antennas are lightweight, highly portable, and "stealthy".  Why not make some of these antennas for your ham shack, your "go-kit", or for SOTA or IOTA operations.  If you choose light colored wire, the antennas will be nearly invisible to your neighbors. 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 ...

Review of MFJ-1984MP End-Fed Multi-band Antenna (# 89). Post 1799.

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If you can't view the video, please insert this title URL into your search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qddvFMgGKJo. End-fed antennas can be tricky to tune properly, especially if your ground radial or counterpoise system is not up to par.  Such is the case with the popular MFJ-1984MP End-Fed Multi-band Antenna, tested in this video from Dave Casler (KE0OG).  Dave goes through the installation process step-by-step to ensure that you have a good ground connection for this antenna.  Dave offers a few suggestions on how to install the balun so that SWR and other gremlins don't interfere with antenna performance.  Those commenting on Dave's website suggest raising the balun about 3-feet/0.914 meters above ground.  After some trial and error, Dave was able to adjust the antenna so it worked efficiently.  For a more in depth review of a similar end-fed half-wave antenna, please check out the March 2016 issue of "QST." For the latest Amateur/Ham Rad...

How to make a Ham Radio RF Dummy load using a Low Pass filter Conversion. Post 1798.

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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=zTS2g-FZ72Q. Here's a clever way to convert a surplus Low Pass Filter into a useful 50 ohm dummy load.  According to D-lab Electronics, "Depending on the low pass cabinet and whatever resistors you have on hand, a powerful device can be constructed." Subscribers to this article say your initial cash outlay should be in the neighborhood of $15 to $20 US.  Compared to the prices now being charged for RF Dummy Loads, this homebrew project is quite a bargain.  An RF Dummy Load should be an integral part of your ham radio station. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigi...

Build the No-Stick Buddy-Stick Antenna. Post 1797.

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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=E8JrZxPkCLs. Here's another excellent idea for a multiband portable HF antenna.  Scott (KW4JM) does a superb job of creating this versatile antenna in an easy-to-understand process. His only caution relates to the coil.  Scott says "The coil wire must be secured on each end to keep it tightly wound...this can be done with a knot or a couple of holes in the PVC or both."  Nicely done video. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

Portable Amateur Radio Satellite Antenna. Post 1796.

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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 exceptionally well-made video from Dave Turlock (KG0ZZ), we learn how to build a simple and effective satellite antenna covering the 2 meter and 70 cm Amateur Radio bands.  Dave takes you step-by-step through the design and construction phases of this project.  Whether you enjoy portable operations in the field or DX contacts from your home shack, you'll find this uncomplicated antenna a worthwhile addition to your radio room. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining...

Homebrew HF Vertical Antenna, Post 1795.

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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=MxZMTja0Hn0. Here's another great idea for a homebrew HF vertical antenna from W0OTM.  He uses a Cabela 16.5-foot/5.03 meters "Classic Crappie fishing pole" as the support for the 1/4-inch/.635 cm copper tape which serves as the conductor in each antenna element.  Most of the materials for this antenna can be found at the nearest home improvement center or sporting goods store. This antenna can be used in both home and portable operations. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joini...

20m Indoor Antenna. Post 1794.

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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=PfW3u9YJuhM Here's a remarkably simple and easy-to-use 20 meter indoor antenna from IZ0RQF.  The antenna is built on a 1.66 meter/5.44 feet fiberglass fishing rod with a 1/4 wave length base coil and a .55 meter/1.804 feet counterpoise.  The antenna works well, considering its length and use indoors.  If you need to get on the air from a deed-restricted property (HOA/CC&R), you may find this antenna useful. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Rus...

22 Different Wire Antennas for the 160 Meter Band. Post 1793.

22 Different Wire Antennas for the 160 Meter Band https://topbandhams.com/tech-page/6-22-different-wire-antennas-for-the-160-meter-band. Accessed on 06 March 2019, 0415 UTC, Post 1793. Please click link or enter title into your browser search box to read the full article. Comment: Now that propagation is favoring the lower HF bands (160m, 80m, and 40m), it may be time to consider a simple, inexpensive antenna to cover these bands.  This article discusses 22 simple to moderately challenging antennas for "Top Band", otherwise known as 160 meters.  Detailed drawings illustrate the basic construction details of these antennas, which can be built from locally available materials. Here are some of the antennas featured in this article: Random Length Wire Antenna for 160 meters. Delta Loop Antenna. Half Delta Loop Antenna. Full-Wave Loop Antenna. These are the basic antennas that will get you on 160 meters with a minimum of time and expense. Here are some oth...

80 Meter Half Square. Post 1792.

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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=2SBGdPMnH-E. If you have a large yard and a few tall trees, you may want to build this 80 meter half square antenna from Don Johnson (N4DJ).  With HF propagation now favoring the 160, 80, and 40 meter bands, the half square antenna should be in your basic antenna tool kit.  Although the dimensions of this antenna are a bit large, the payoff in DX contacts should negate any questions about using it. Don says "My 80 meter bent half square was probably the best antenna I ever had..." He had the antenna facing broadside to Europe from his Hampton, Virginia QTH and collected many strong contacts. Don takes you through the design, construction, and use process of this excellent DX antenna.  Don adds that you must get the top portion of the antenna rather high for it to hit the 15-degree radiation angle for good DX contacts.  While the half square...

20 Meter Delta Loop Antenna. Post 1791.

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If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rq-9TAcCnxE. A 20 Meter Delta Loop Antenna is an excellent antenna for those of us with limited space and an even more limited budget.  As Denis (VE3BF) explains, the delta loop has a modest amount of gain (a little more than 2dBi), receives well, is fairly quiet, takes up little space, and is cheap to build, depending on what resources you have in your community.  You can change polarization (vertical and horizontal) by feeding the antenna from the top, bottom, or corner.  If you chose to feed your 20 meter delta loop with balance feed line, you can get coverage from 20 through 20 meters.  An excellent antenna at a modest cost.! 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 Fr...

Building And Tuning 2 Meter 144 Mhz Copper J Pole Antenna. Post 1790.

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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=IdbFqVwoV8s An excellent, well-thought-out video tutorial from "CA militia."  The video takes you from basic design and construction to on-air use.  You can get most of the antenna materials from your neighborhood hardware or home improvement outlet. Although tuning of this antenna is a bit tricky, the rewards of an almost 3dB gain over a simple ground plane antenna make this project worthwhile. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

A bobtail gain antenna for 432 MHz. Post 1789.

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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=FgJVuEq5Its. Australian radio amateur Peter Parker (VK3YE) always has something interesting when it comes to experimental antennas. In this video, Peter shows us how to make a bobtain gain antenna for the 70 cm (432 MHz) Amateur Radio Band.  The concept is simple and the construction is uncomplicated. So, if you need an antenna to reach a distant UHF repeater or something to improve operations in the field, then this antenna is for you. 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://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today. ...