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Showing posts from November, 2019

Baofeng Antenna options! Post 2069.

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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=EkBrbc6jEh8. The UV5R series of VHF/UHF transceivers from the Peoples Republic of China are popular, inexpensive radios for portable or casual operations.  Like many HTs sold these days, the antenna supplied with the radios leave much to be desired. In this well-paced video from Tony Kiser, we see how the UV5R's performance can be enhanced by simply changing the antenna to a more efficient design. If you plan to use the UV5R at your home station, you may want to mount a homemade J-Pole antenna outside your shack.  Be sure to choose a good coaxial cable to feed the antenna--something along the lines of LMR-400. ------------------------- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://w

2m/70cm Ground Plane Antenna. Post 2068.

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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=x-DPVuyU8Pg. Here's a simple, inexpensive 2m/70 cm ground plane antenna suitable for both home and portable use. Dave Tadlock (KG0ZZ) takes us step-by-step through the design, construction, and testing process for this handy, easy to use VHF/UHF antenna.  For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

DIY Dual Band VHF UHF antenna from surplus. Post 2067.

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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=LO6-RyFsAZs. If you're handy with a few common tools and willing to experiment with surplus electronic parts, then this homebrewed VHF UHF antenna from "SurvivalComms" may interest you. This antenna project is cheap and uses locally available materials. According to "SurvivalComms", the antenna design, building, and testing were fairly easy.  Readily available parts made the project simple and easy: "Re-purposing / re-banding a cellular/PCS antenna into a dual band VHF UHF antenna. Items used are items from the "dollar box" at a hamfest tailgate and everyday hardware. Electronic surplus can be your friend !" --------------------------------- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlau

The 'L' Dipole Antenna for Ham Radio. Post 2066.

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If you can't see the video, please insert this URL title link into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPgKZUTIXp8. Most radio amateurs have heard about the "Inverted V" antenna as a way of getting almost all of the dipole antenna's advantages in a smaller space. What happens if we reverse the Inverted V and transform it into a "L" antenna?  In this well-paced and easily understood video, Johnny (W5KV) uses some easily available parts from MFJ, Buddipole, and Wolf River Coils to make an efficient portable antenna that takes up little space.  The finished product can be used for both portable and home-based operations. Here's a list of the materials used for this antenna project: MFJ-1979: https://amzn.to/2ryHCTe Wolf-River Coil: https://www.wolfrivercoils.com/ Buddipole Versatee: https://www.buddipole.com/versatee.html Buddipole Choke Balun: https://www.buddipole.com/chokebalun.... Spring: https://amzn.to/2C46I2n En

ARRL opposes cuts in 3.3-3.5 GHz Amateur Radio Allocation. Post 2065.

ARRL opposes cuts in 3.3-3.5 GHz Amateur Radio Allocation Source:   https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgxwGBwSfmscscvqBrvfTVXwXdGbX Accessed on 27 November 2019, 0545 UTC, Post 2065. Author:  HQ ARRL, 225 Main Street, Newington, CT, 06111. Summary: Although this site discusses antenna issues, I sometimes depart from that activity to focus on events that impact Amateur/Ham Radio as a whole. Such is the case for my post number 2065.  The United States Federal Communications Commission is considering cutting back Amateur/Ham Radio allocations between 3.3 and 3.5 GHz to make room for commercial mobile services. This group of frequencies will have a significant impact on Amateur/Ham Radio satellites and experimental point-to-point communications.  The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) is asking the FCC to reconsider its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). Here is the full text of the ARRL reply: ZCZC AG23 QST de W1AW  ARRL Bulletin 23  ARLB023 From ARRL Headquart

7 and 28 MHz HF pedestrian mobile with 6m wire. Post 2064. antenna

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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=vqJrm0OffiM. Here's another great pedestrian mobile antenna project from Australian ham Peter Parker (VK3YE).  You can either use this antenna while you walk or use it as a temporary antenna during rest stops at picnic tables or camp sites. Although the antenna is a bit short for 40 meters, it does work fairly well on that band.  Here's Peter's observation: "Some 7 & 28 MHz HF pedestrian mobile with 6 metres of wire. 6m is barely 1/8 wavelength on 7 MHz but 5/8 wavelength on 28 MHz." ------------------------------ For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.ha

How to build a dipole antenna for Ham Radio. Post 2063.

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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=khZRVZnugio. One of the simplest, cost effective, and efficient HF antennas you can build is the half-wavelength dipole.  All you need is the correct length of wire for your band of choice, a convenient length of 50 ohm coaxial cable, two supports, and your HF rig. In this video from Johnny (W5KV), we get some valuable suggestions for making a dipole antenna that will serve the operating requirements of both newly-licensed hams as well as experienced "old timers." Johnny introduces his basic dipole project with these suggestions: "In this video, we'll discuss how to construct a dipole antenna for Amateur Radio using 50 ohm coax, a cutting board, and some simple hardware. Amateur Radio doesn't have to be an expensive hobby. 73 de W5KV. https://www.w5kv.com Category Science & Technology " -------------------

Motorcycle Ham Radio Setup on my VStrom. Post 2062.

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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=yeb1PjllFAQ. Thanks to Josh Downs for this fascinating video on how to install a simple VHF/UHF radio system on a motorcycle. According to Josh, the heart of the system is the popular Baofeng UV-5R with an extended antenna.  Josh covers the installation from beginning to end, including where to store the batteries for extended operations. A nicely done presentation for those willing to combine their motorcycle touring with amateur/ham radio. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ

HOA Stealth Backyard Vertical 10m-80m Antenna - MFJ-1979, RadioWavz P-80

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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=4W5FFX3movg. "Remingtonh" offers another antenna solution for radio amateurs living in deed-restricted housing. As he explains, the heart of his stealth HF antenna is the MFJ-1979 1/4 wavelength 20 meter telescoping antenna: "In this video a demo a working HOA stealth HF transmitting antenna solution using the MFJ-1979 (1/4 wave 20-meter telescoping vertical), RadioWavz "Patriot 80" adjustable loading coil, Hustler mast, MFJ-909 capacitive matcher. I've updated to Wolf River Coils Silver Bullet 1000! https://youtu.be/p7P4ugDY7fs " ----------------------- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislanda

Stealth Gutter Antenna for Ham Radio or Short Wave

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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=GhqzlvmlND4.  This is post 2060 in a continuing series of articles on ham radio antennas. If you live in deed-restricted housing (HOAs and CC&Rs), you may find this video from "drez20001" interesting. In this video, we see how a metal gutter and downspout can be used as a HF antenna.  The video shows how to bind the metal pieces together to establish a good electrical connection.  Because of losses in this compromised antenna, you will probably need a good antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner") and low-loss coaxial feed line to maximize the performance of this stealth antenna. Despite the shortcomings of this antenna, a metal gutter-downspout antenna will get you on the air without undue attention from your neighbors.  A compromise antenna is better than no antenna at all. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please

Radials on Vertical Antenna Systems. Post 2059.

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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 (N9LVS) for this good, basic introduction to the theory, construction, and use of ground radial and counterpoise systems for vertical HF antennas. The ground radial/counterpoise system provides "the missing half" of a vertical antenna and allow it to be more efficient and stable. Dan does a good job of comparing a ground radial system for an AM broadcast tower to a simpler radial arrangement for an amateur/ham radio vertical.  For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining

160 Meter Inverted L antenna. Post 2058.

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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=JWZZlpHJKT8. If you live on a large piece of property and want to explore the fascinating world of 160 meters, you may find this extra long antenna interesting. Thanks to Bob Holowenko for showing us his winter 160 meter antenna. According to Bob, this antenna is a real powerhouse on the "Gentlemen's Band." Here's how Bob describes his antenna: "1000ft of 14ga AWG wire (7-strand) and some rope make one of the best performing antennas I've played with. This is made from 127ft of vertical wire, 6 127ft radials, and a pile of random wire, including a fence, make for a fun little antenna." For your convenience, here's the conversion from feet to meters: 1000 ft=304.87 meters. 127 feet=38.71 meters. ------------------------------ If you have room on your property, you may want to build one of Bob's 160 meter an

Installing a new Vertical ham Radio Antenna. Post 2057.

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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=IrWLqixFFuc This video from "learnelectronics" takes us step-by-step in the assembly, tuning, and use of the popular Hustler 4BTV HF Antenna.  Please note how carefully the antenna is laid out prior to assembly and how protectants, such as anti-seize compound, are used to protect joints, screws, bolts, and nuts. A carefully planned assembly routine is vital if you hope to build this antenna right the first time. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

How To Moonbounce! - Ham Nation 428. Post 2056.

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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=KbFN78mrALQ. One of my favorite online video programs is "Ham Nation."  The 1.5 hour program covers a variety of Amateur/Ham Radio-related topics, including news, propagation, antennas, DX contests, and technical questions. In program 428, we get an excellent tutorial on "How To Moonbounce"--something that can be done with modest equipment and homebrewed antennas.  The discussion is clearly presented and is easily followed. Here are some of the other topics covered in this program: "YOTA Camp, equipment for moonbouncing. The Leonid Meteor Shower with Gordo, the AM band with George, Youth on the Air Camp at the Voice of America Museum with Neil Rapp and Jocelyn Brault, Amateur Radio Newsline with Don, Moonbouncing with Val and Lance Collister, your questions with Amanda and more! Hosts: Bob Heil, Gordon West, George Thomas, Don

How to use an antenna analyzer. Post 2055.

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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=bXp7uin7_7Y. Over the past few years, I've found an antenna analyzer a most valuable tool for designing, building, and using homebrew antennas.  Although my MFJ-259 is several seasons old, it does what it's supposed to do. In this well-made video from Ron Payne (WA6YOU), we get an excellent overview of what an antenna analyzer does and what are some of the shortcomings of the commercial products available. This presentation was given before members of the Vienna Wireless Society on 28 April 2017. Ron does a good job of explaining antenna analyzers in simple, easily understood terms.  As you may expect, there are several commercial versions of this useful tool available through the internet or from local Amateur Radio stores. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http:/

What is a Quagi Antenna? Post 2054.

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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=XhuRCV3ZxW4. Here's an interesting and fun VHF/UHF antenna for those experimentally-minded. Stan Gibilisco (W1GV) does an excellent job of explaining the theory, construction, and use of the Quagi Antenna--an antenna that combines the best features of the Yagi-Uda beam and the Cubical Quad Antenna. Build one of these fascinating antennas for your next mini-DXpedition or portable operation. If you want more information on the evolution of the Quagi Antenna, please go here:  http://n6nb.com/quagi.htm. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.south

N4LQ Multiband Inverted L Antenna. Post 2053.

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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=uuD2mBZKHOg. If you live on a small urban lot and want a fairly efficient multiband HF antenna covering 160 meters through 10 meters, then this video from N4LQ might be helpful. As originally designed, the inverted L measured 100-feet/30.48 meters and used a MFJ-998 antenna "tuner" to control the mismatch found on the antenna.  Later, N4LQ extended the antenna length to 200-feet/60.97 meters and got better results. The key to this antenna is to get as much vertical wire in the air as possible before adding the inverted L section at the top. Be sure to install a basic ground radial or counterpoise system to complete the project. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https:/

Ham radio HF stealth dipoles ON-AIR test and review

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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=7rujoKVOhK8.  This is post 2052 in a continuing series about Amateur/Ham Radio Antennas. Operating your amateur/ham radio station in deed-restricted housing can present difficult challenges. Rather than surrender to restrictive rules and regulations, why not be creative and make antennas that are nearly invisible, while still delivering adequate performance? In this well-paced video from the "Ham Radio Concepts Amateur Radio Channel", we see some intriguing, inexpensive HF antennas that blend in with their surroundings and give decent performance. Many of the antennas described in this video come from designs created by N9SAD.  Most of his stealth antennas are ultra-light and can be used in a variety of operating environments. If you're living in a controlled housing area, this video can give you ways to get on the air without bothering you

Ham Radio - A quarter wave groundplane antenna for your HT

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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=ViodMxV77eM. If you're dissatisfied with the antenna on your HT, why not make an efficient, inexpensive replacement for that "rubber duck" that came with your HT? In our last post, we discussed how adding a "Tiger Tail" counterpoise wire could boost the performance of your HT. In this post from Kevin Loughin (KB9RLW), we can get some real improvement in coverage by using a simple quarter wave ground plane antenna with our HT. Kevin does a good job of showing us how to make one of these easy, efficient antennas for the VHF/UHF amateur radio bands. You may be surprised just how well your HT performs once you attach a decent antenna. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews? https://oahuarrlnews.word

Increase HT Range & Performance Free Mod ( Baofeng UV)

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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=N3R-b00pLbw. Thanks to "connly33" for this simple, inexpensive way to boost the range and performance of a VHF/UHF HT. The secret of  better performance is the use of a "Tiger Tail" or counterpoise wire attached to the base of the antenna input.  For the lower part of 2 meters, use a 20 inch/50.80 cm length of wire.  For the upper portion of 2 meters, use a 19 inch/48.26 cm piece of wire. You may be able to build a small counterpoise wire with the materials in your "junk box." For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.sou

Multiband & EFHW Antenna Presentation at BVRC

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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=BpdpkUEW39o. In this well-paced video, Steve Ellington (N4LQ) compares a variety of multiband HF antennas with the end-fed half wavelength antenna.  Steve does a good job of explaining the pros and cons of several popular antennas and explains why the end-fed half wavelength should be among your favorite antennas. Other than a few minor quibbles about the relationship between baluns and antenna currents, I found the presentation factual, interesting, and useful for both newly licensed radio amateurs and the "seasoned", experienced operator. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news, events, and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.ne

Turn this 28m light pole into an antenna for 1.8 MHz. Post 2048.

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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=iGQJRhWViMI. Here's another intriguing and somewhat strange antenna project from Australian ham Peter Parker (VK3YE). Peter shows us how to convert free-standing light poles into workable vertical antennas for the 160 meter amateur radio band.  Please get permission from local authorities before you try this antenna. Peter offers this commentary on this unusual antenna project: "Ever thought about how good those light poles you see at sports ovals would be if only you could connect them up as an antenna? Wonder no more. With a coupling loop it's possible to load them up on at least the 160 metre amateur band. Video demonstrates how it's done with contacts made with 10 watts of AM on 1.8 MHz. The variable capacitor and coil used in series with the feed coil is the ground tuning unit described in a previous video. Recording by Clint V

How To Build A 70CM Tape Measure Yagi Antenna. Post 2047.

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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=iRTsCoBe7DU. Here's a simple, inexpensive 4-element 70 cm tape measure yagi antenna suitable for any portable or field operation. "Fuzz The Pi Guy" does an excellent job of explaining the theory behind this antenna as he shows us how common, readily available materials can be used to make an effective, efficient antenna.  The same procedures outlined in this video can be scaled for the 2 meter ham band, allowing, of course, for the larger dimensions found on that band. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news, events, and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. T

A new carbon-fibre mast from SOTABEAMS. Post 2046.

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A new carbon-fibre mast from SOTABEAMS. Source:   http://www.southgatearc.org/news/2019/november/lightweight-carbon-fibre-mast.htm#.XcR1aEtKjIU Accessed on 07 November 2019, 2005 UTC, Post 2046. Summary: If you do a lot of portable or emergency radio operations, you may find this new product from SOTABEAMS a valuable addition to your amteur/ham radio "Go-Kit." This compact, lightweight carbon-fibre mast is ideal for remote locations where an end-fed or inverted V antenna would be desirable. Here's the formal announcement from SOTABEAMS: "A class-leading lightweight carbon-fibre mast from SOTABEAMS Portable specialist  SOTABEAMS  has launched a new carbon-fibre portable telescopic mast. The  Carbon-6  has an extended length of 6 metres (19.6 ft) but weights just 300 grams (10.6 ounces). Its packed length is only 43 cm (17 inches) making it a mast that can be taken pretty much anywhere. The Carbon-6 has been designed for light-duty operations and is

Windom Antenna. Post 2045.

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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=5PbOfZYzCUE. Another "classic" multiband HF antenna to consider is the "Windom Antenna", originally designed around 1922 by Loren G. Windom (ex-W8GZ). Windom's original design was fed by a single wire connected on 1/3 of the antenna's total length, with modern versions using balanced line and coaxial cable to feed this off-center fed dipole. Windom's design often created RFI and SWR problems because it had no "return conductor" or shied on the single feed wire.  Modern versions have largely solved the common mode and RFI problems found with this antenna. In this video, Stan Gibilisco (W1GV) provides an excellent review of the theory, construction, and use of this nearly 100-year-old design.  If you build and test this antenna carefully, it will give you years of contacts at minimal cost. For the latest Amateur

Antenna Restrictions for Ham Radio, HOA & Co: there are solutions! Post 2044.

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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=PBm7JsbVQzw. If your ham radio activities are limited because of deed-restricted housing (HOAs/CC&Rs), then this upbeat, positive video from Lucien (DH7LM) is just what you need to get on the air despite your homes limitations. Lucien does an excellent job of exploring alternative antennas that may work in  your situation.  The important thing to remember is this:  Never give up!  A compromise antenna is better than no antenna at all.  Lucien's ideas can help you return to the communications hobby you love without alerting the "housing police." For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news, events, and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https:

Ham Radio - A 75/80 meter single band fan dipole. Post 2043.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qwQzVdRRec If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qwQzVdRRec. Thanks to Kevin Loughin (KB9RLW) and his friend Jim (AC9EZ) for this intriguing answer to large SWR swings found on dipoles trying to cover the entire 80 meter Amateur Radio band. According to Kevin and Jim, a modified fan dipole with elements cut for both the 80 and 75 meter segments of the band will provide low SWR across the entire 75/80 meter band.  Using 450 ohm ladder line and a good antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner") are keys to making this antenna attain maximum efficiency.  A good, simple antenna that will provide wide 80 meter coverage at a reasonable cost. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradi

An Awesome Antenna For 2m SSB CW, Part 2 Test. Post 2042.

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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=VcU2BZ7aBB8. Here's part 2 of the "Hourglass Antenna" from "Radiopreppers.com."  The antenna is based on a design by John Stanley (K4ERO) and can be used successfully on 2 meter Single Sideband and CW. According to the "Radiopreppers.com" website, this horizontally polarized VHF antenna can also be used on VHF digital modes.  The antenna has approximately 5 dB gain (nearly as much as a 2 meter Moxon Antenna), is almost omni-directional, and is easily portable.  The antenna shows a 50 ohm impedance and can be fed with a good quality coaxial cable. ---------------------- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news, events, and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.c

An Awesome Antenna For VHF 2m SSB CW, Part 1 Build. Post 2041.

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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=7fsFx_Wf2Ko. This somewhat unusual "Hourglass" antenna from "Radiopreppers.com" is a horizontally polarized antenna for those involved with 2 meter SSB, CW, and digital modes.  The original idea for this antenna came from a "QST" article, which is cited in the links below. In part one of this two-part series, we get a general overview of the theory, construction, tuning, and use of this antenna. Here's the overall description of the antenna from "Radiopreppers.com": "Its vertical shape makes it easy to fit anywhere and it is not too long to fit inside a regular car. Efficiency is near that of a Moxon, about 5db, but with a bi-directional, almost omni-directional pattern. Much bigger than a Moxon, which I consider to be portable, but nevertheless it could be dismantled for transport. It is sort of a doubl