Posts

Ham Radio Basics--Dipole Antenna Center Insulator. Post 1919.

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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=E5OqrvyjTgs. One of the ways you can achieve multiband HF coverage using only one coaxial cable feed line is to build a "Fan Dipole", with separate dipoles for as many HF bands you want to use.  The key to this "classic" antenna is the construction of a sturdy, weather resistant center Insulator to support your various dipole antennas. In this video from Jim (W6LG), we see how some PVC plumbing parts, a coax connector, and a few screw eyes can make a tough, inexpensive center connector for your Fan Dipole. Jim takes us step-by-step through the design, construction, and testing phases of this helpful antenna accessory.  A well-done, easily understandable tutorial from a well-know antenna pro.  Please note the classic Drake Amateur Radio gear in the background. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these w

Inverted-V portable antenna for 20m - Neven, 9A5YY. Post 1918.

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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=azmDNE1uboo . A very short video from Neven (9A5YY) showing us his simple, portable inverted V antenna.  He seems to get a variety of good contacts using only 5 watts into his Yaesu-FT-817ND transceiver. The antenna has only a few parts: Spiderbeam HD 12 m/39.36 ft telescoping fiberglass mast. MFJ-1779C Center insulator. Antenna wire. Plastic insulators. Various clips and clamps. Ancell 5(50 ohm) coaxial cable for the feed line. MFJ-269 Antenna Analyzer. Neven says the antenna is resonant at 14.180 MHz with an SWR of 1.2. 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://bigislandarrl

Ham Radio - A look at the EMTECH ZM 2 antenna tuner. Post 1917.

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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=eOEvhhLlL7U. If you need a simple, effective antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner") for your QRP station, then please consider the EMTECH ZM 2 antenna tuner. In this video, Kevin Loughin (KB9RLW) does an exhaustive review of this small, but highly versatile ATU.  Kevin also compares the ZM 2 to his recently built L-network tuner.  While both tuners are capable performers, the ZM 2 holds the edge on overall performance. The EMTECH ZM 2 is light weight, highly portable, and certainly efficient, whether you prefer home operation or working stations from a nearby park or recreation area. 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.

How To Setup And Trim A Speaker Wire Dipole Antenna. Post 1916.

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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=jK5j8hTVnoE. Now that you've measured your wire, gathered a few supports, and assembled some basic tools, how do you make sure your new dipole is close to the frequency calculated by the usual formulas and collective wisdom of your friends? In this well-organized video by Josh of the "Ham Radio Crash Course", we learn how to build, setup, and trim your new HF dipole antenna so that it performs as you intended. The video provides basic, easy-to-understand instructions on how to make your dipole behave as it should.  A nice review for any antenna enthusiast. 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

A Simple Short Vertical HF Antenna. Post 1915.

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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=8_Axs2ut7sE. Here's an excellent example of what can be done with a very short HF vertical in a portable or field operation. In this video, "RadioPrepper" uses a 6 m/19.68 ft telescoping fiberglass fishing pole to support 19 ft/5.79 m of antenna wire.  The key to the success this antenna is the EARCHI 9:1 UNUN.  On this day, an Elecraft KX2 was able to reach Sweden for a QSO.  Notice how a complete ham station was carried in a small plastic case, making this arrangement perfect for an impromptu 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://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.co