Posts

RF and Antenna Basics in 802 11. Post#1201.

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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=tyr_u8Zfw2U. This video tutorial from Hank Ottey does an excellent job of explaining RF and Antenna Basics as they apply to 802.11 wireless systems. The tutorial covers two broad areas: Aspects of Antennas (gain and signal speed; reciprocity; range; and mounting). Enemies of Signal Quality (multipath; obstructions; Fresnel Zones; and weather). Each section is well-illustrated with graphs, photos, and other data. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these sites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast updated every Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: https://paper.li/f-1476233615 (Hawaii Science Digest)

HF J-Pole. Post #1200.

HF J-Pole (http://www.eham.net/articles/39180). Accessed on 25 July 2017, 20:00 hrs, UTC. Author:  Mike Higgins (K6AER). Please enter link into your browser search box to read the full article. Comment: Most radio amateurs are acquainted with the J-Pole antenna, which finds a ready application for our shared VHF/UHF bands.  The antenna is simple, easy to make with commonly available materials, and provides a modest amount of gain. In this post, Mike Higgins (K6AER) describes the HF version of the J-Pole antenna scaled for both 20 and 40 meters. He briefly describes how the antenna is designed and built: "There is nothing special about a J pole, it is an end fed ½ wavelength vertical radiator that needs no radials. Just like its 2-meter brother but on 20 meters it is ten times larger. The bottom ¼ matching section is fed with 50-ohm coax. Bottom of the antenna is shorted and the coax attaches at the 50 ohm point in the matching transformer. The higher the attach poi

Ham Radio Tower Climbing Safety. Post #1199

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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=as3brjn_-X4. During my career in commercial broadcasting, I've climbed enough towers to last a lifetime. The fact that I'm still alive to discuss such things is a tribute to my training, the use of certified safety equipment, pre-planning, and plenty of help on the ground. In this video from Valerie Hotzfeld, we learn how to climb ham radio towers safely. The emphasis of this video is on planning, safety equipment, and adequate ground support.  Don't take shortcuts when you climb towers.  Just take your time and work slowly. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353

Amateur Radio Bicycle Mobile setup. Post #1198.

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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=2zWb-KnkGdY. Not all mobile operations can be run from your vehicle.  How about mounting a simple 5/8 wavelength Larson VHF magnetic mount antenna on your bicycle and using a HT to contact fellow radio amateurs on 2 meters while you cruise around the neighborhood?  "Taverned" has just done that with a simple 2 meter mobile antenna arrangement on his mountain bike. When you've finished your run, you can park the bike at a public park and operate portable from a bench or picnic table.  A very simple, effective operation--plus you get exercise and some fresh air at the same time. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these sites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast updated on Friday

Solo antenna mast erecting - Ham Radio know how. Post #1197.

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If you can't view this video, please enter this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch/v=T10k1NIJO2A. Placing your ham radio antenna atop a mast can really boost your your antenna performance, especially if you're using a small yagi beam. In this video, "ColdMoon" shows how he erected a mast by himself using 3 guy lines and a fiberglass pole.  While this arrangement works, it may be safer to have a friend help you, in case there is a problem. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast updated every Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: https://paper.li/f-1476233615 (Hawaii Science Digest). https://hawaiiintellilgencedigest.com (trends i