Simple Ham Radio Antennas

ARRL president appeals for volunteers to support hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico. Source:  E-mails to ARRL members. From:  Rick Roderick (K5UR), President, ARRL. Accessed on 26 September 2017, 0515 UTC. The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and many smaller Caribbean Islands have been devastated by Hurricane Maria.  Although relief aid is arriving in this area, many smaller islands, including Puerto Rico, are facing dire shortages of water, electricity, medical aid, shelter, and communications. ARRL President Rick Roderick (K6UR) has taken the rare step of appealing to the Amateur Radio Community, whether they be ARRL members or not, to support ongoing relief efforts in Puerto Rico. On Monday, 25 September 2017, Roderick issued a mass e-mail appeal for help and included several areas where radio amateurs can best serve first responders. Here's the full text of Roderick's message: Monday, September 25, 2017  Dear ARRL Member: There are few times when I have ne

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxwuXuIQvTE. If you've been waiting for a multiband HF antenna that doesn't require a "tuner", then this fairly new, easy to assemble antenna from Alpha Antennas could be your answer.  This antenna was introduced in 2016 and has become a favorite choice of those wanting a sturdy, quality-made antenna suitable for both portable and home use. In this video  from "videosbymike", we get an excellent tutorial on the antenna's theory of operation, how to assemble the antenna parts, and how to improve the efficiency of this vertical. This antenna could be a good choice for those of us who prefer a commercial product. 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.

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser searchbox: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiaHtmOB57Y. In this video, NG9D offers a simple end-fed halfwave antenna suitable for 80 meter portable and emergency operations.  Most of the signal radiated by this antenna is high angle, making it ideal for Near Vertical Skywave applications (NVIS). NG9D provides necessary construction details, theory of operation, and a brief demonstration of how the antenna works in the field.  A nice, simple, inexpensive antenna that should be included in your "go kit." 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of inte

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T10k1NIJO2A. A nicely produced video from "ColdestMoon" on how to erect a mast suitable for amateur radio using only three guy lines and a telescoping fiberglass pole.  This method is quick, safe, and ensures a stable mast for your antennas. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li./kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Hawaii Intelligence Digest (https://hawaiiintelligencedigest.com). Hawaii Intelligence Daily (https://paper.li/f-1482109921). Be sure to check the blog sid

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5awjoMRzrQ. A phased vertical array on 20 meters can give you a boost in gain and directivity on this popular amateur radio band. Bob (VK5FO) gives you a "walk through" of this antenna and a description of the end-fire phased array consisting of 2X 1/4 wave elevated ground plane antennas. This antenna would make an excellent field day or contest antenna.  Most of the materials can be bought at the nearest home improvement outlet or neighborhood hardware store. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430280353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of in

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJ5IIr3hsIA. A nice video showing how to deploy an all-band vertical antenna (DX Commander) in less than 25 minutes.  Notice how well organized the assembly process is and how easy it is to take the antenna down when operations are done. According to "Radionut63", this vertical antenna covers several HF amateur radio bands without a "tuner". He ends the video with a good contact on 17 meters. For the latest Amateur Radio News and Information, please visit these websites: https://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https;//oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https;//paper.li/f-147623

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXcInIk1fGo. Here's a dual band top loaded vertical antenna that covers both the 160 meter and 80 meter amateur radio bands.  For this project, N7EAA used a MFJ pipe for $200, galvanized steel electrical fence wire, and inexpensive poly rope for guy supports.  You'll probably need some help assembling and erecting this antenna. Like all vertical antennas, you will need a good ground radial or counterpoise system.  In this video, N7EAA attaches his ground system to an aluminum plate at ground level. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News &am

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDDQChjQra4. The Maple Leaf Studio offers some excellent antennas for those of us with limited mechanical abilities.  This video from Tom (K2BEW) shows us the popular Off Center Fed Windom Antenna from this manufacturer.  Tom does an excellent job of showing us the step-by-step process of assembling this multiband HF antenna. In this video, Tom uses a 37-foot/11.28 meters aluminum mast to support the antenna.  The antenna fits comfortably into his beautiful yard. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest:

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3T1LOGahiwY. Here's another HF loop antenna idea if you have some trees or tall supports in your backyard.  Marcus Schrader built this full-wavelength 40 meter loop (143 feet/43.59 meters) and suspended it 20 feet/6.09 meters above ground using a few trees in his back yard.  He uses a 4:1 balun along with a length of 450 ohm ladder line to feed the antenna.  Marcus uses this combination with an antenna "tuner" to cover 10 through 40 meters.  As you can see from the video, the antenna is fairly "stealthy". 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353

Antenna simulator for small vertical monopoles. (http://www.472khz.org/pages/tools/antenna-simulator.php). Accessed on 16 September 2017, 2215 hrs, UTC. Please click link to read the full article. Comment: Now that the FCC has established rules and regulations for the 630 and 2200 meter amateur radio bands, radio amateurs can now expand their contacts with frequencies below the standard broadcast band. One of the prime concerns related to these bands, besides running low power and non-interference for existing services, is the type of antenna suitable for such low frequencies. It's possible to design a relatively small vertical monopole antenna that will perform well in the rf "basement", thanks to this antenna simulator for 472 kHz. Although this simple calculator isn't a replacement for software such as EZNEC, it will give you an indication on how this type of antenna will perform.  Just plug in the raw data about antenna type, antenna dimensions, and

ARLB018 FCC opens 630-and-2200-meter bands; stations must notify UTC. Special announcement from HQ ARRL, Newington, CT, 06111. Accessed on 16 September 2017, 0800 hrs, UTC. The full text of this special W1AW bulletin is listed below. Comment: On Friday, 15 September 2017, the FCC opened the 630 and 2200 meter bands for licensed radio amateurs, subject to special rules and regulations of the FCC. Here is the announcement from HQ ARRL, Newington, CT, 06111: SB QST @ ARL $ARLB018 ARLB018 FCC Opens 630- and 2200-Meter Bands; Stations Must Notify UTC Before Operating ZCZC AG18 QST de W1AW ARRL Bulletin 18  ARLB018 From ARRL Headquarters Newington CT   September 15, 2017 To all radio amateurs SB QST ARL ARLB018 ARLB018 FCC Opens 630- and 2200-Meter Bands; Stations Must Notify UTC Before Operating The FCC has announced that the Office of Management and Budget has approved, for 3 years, the information-collection requirement of the Commission's  March 29  Report

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxGXJxNkfb8. If you need to erect a portable HF vertical antenna for the 40 meter amateur radio band in 5 minutes or less, then this video from John Saunders may be what you need.  By pre-assembling the parts beforehand and storing them in your vehicle, you can have a working antenna for any portable or emergency situation.  John shows us how to assemble the antenna in an easy-to-understand, step-by-step process.  You may want to make your vehicle part of the ground system to increase efficiency and reduce rf flow on the outside of the coaxial feed. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6xH-s1rpiM. Even in times of poor propagation, the 6 meter amateur radio band can still produce interesting contacts--often at surprising distances.  In this video from K1GMM, we learn how to build a 3-element 6 meter yagi that can deliver approximately 9.4 dBi gain.  According to K1GMM, all of the parts can be obtained for around $60 from a well-stocked home improvement outlet or hardware store.  The antenna can be broken down easily for portable or emergency operations. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser searchbox: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPGMepI5hrI. I you're feeling a bit experimental when it comes to HF antennas, why not try building a homebrew, portable hexbeam antenna?  In this video from "Cliff" of the QRP School, we learn how to design, build, and use this versatile, multiband HF antenna. Cliff offers many helpful suggestions, including a recommend parts list for the hexbeam. 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 News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Hawaii Intelligence Digest (https://hawaiiintelligenced

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-8ExG3E5oY. Here's another possible antenna solution for those living in deed-restricted homes and apartments (HOAs and CC&Rs). In this video, "None Business" uses his Scorpion Screwdriver mobile antenna to operate from his property. While the arrangement isn't perfect, it does allow this radio amateur to get on the air without undue notice.  As the old saying goes, "a compromise antenna is better than no antenna." 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3Oho0Icbis. If you have a few old CB antennas around your shack, why not covert some of them into 10 meter mobile or home station use?  My current 10 meter vertical antenna is a cut down 108-inch/274.32 cm steel CB whip I bought years ago at Radio Shack.  Used as a ground plane antenna, this converted CB antenna does a good job on 10 meters when the band opens. In this video by Tony (KD8RTT) and his brother Andy (KK4LWR), we see a simple way of modifying a CB whip antenna for use on the 10 meter Amateur Radio Band.  Their MFJ HF/VHF SWR analyzer helps in the trimming process. Don't let that old CB antenna go to waste.  Convert it now into a simple, effective mobile or portable antenna. For the latest Amateur Radio News and Information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislan

HF Multi-Band Dipole (http://hamuniverse.com/multidipole.html). Accessed on 10 September 2017, 0120 hrs, UTC. Please enter title URL into your browser search box to view the full article and photographs. Comment: This variant of the popular "Fan Dipole" antenna was based on work done by the Stanford Research Institute (SRI).  The aim of the SRI project was to develop a multi-band HF dipole antenna that would work without any need for cut and prune techniques. The article provides all of the critical measurements, construction techniques, and materials needed to make a versatile, easy-to-use multi-band HF antenna covering the 80, 40, 20, and 10 meter bands without the use of an antenna "tuner." 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 which is

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-cUNs274rU. Here's an interesting dipole center support that will withstand bad weather, heat, dust, and other environmental factors.  In this video from Ed (W4EDF), we get a detailed, thoroughly explained step-by-step process in designing and building of the original Field Expedient Dipole Antenna center platform introduced by K7ETX.  This would make a good club or school project. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Hawaii Intelli

If you can't views this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuBBHR6Z-IE. In this short video, Brett (SurvivalComms) shows us how to make a lightweight, cheap, and portable VHF/UHF antenna that is easy to make, has broad bandwidth, and offers good performance.  Make one these antennas for your "go box" emergency radio kit. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon. https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Hawaii Intelligence Daily (https://paper.li/f-1482109921). Be sure to check the blog sidebars for more antenna and propagation article

Portable Antennas for Amateur Ham Radio by OH8STN (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKMrdrsNkFA60HGnhXN9_2FehDWdPPnQ1). Author:  OH8STN (Survival Tech Nord) Accessed on 06 September 2017, 2350 hrs, UTC, Post #1242. Please click link or enter title URL into your browser to view the antenna videos. Comment: In this playlist from OH8STN (Survival Tech Nord), you'll find 19 videos covering a variety of portable and field deployable antennas tested OH8STN on this youtube channel.  All are outstanding, understandable, and full of helpful suggestions for man-portable antennas in a wide range of climates and conditions.  The antennas range from end-fed half wavelength wires to compact magnetic loop antennas. In this package, OH8STN has included an article about portable vertical antennas. You can find the article here:  http://www.survivaltechnology.net/the-man-portable-vertical-compromise-antenna-rant/. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit the

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tafy51yUzQo. It may be wise to make several versions of this simple, inexpensive antenna for portable or emergency operations.  Kevin Loughin (KB9RLW) does an excellent job of creating an emergency antenna from coaxial cable.  The antenna is easy to build and uses a minimum of tools.  The antenna can be designed for your favorite amateur radio bands and stored in your vehicle or shack when you need to get on the air quickly. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430280353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ex77E4p3Aq0. Here's an antenna you may want to try in your spare time.  In this video, Stan Gibilisco (W1GV) presents the theory and operational parameters behind this rarely used but effective antenna. This antenna can be used where a tower and metal beam antenna aren't feasible. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Hawaii Intelligence Digest (https://hawaiiintelligencedigest.com). Hawaii Intelligence Daily (https://paper.li/f-148210

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFW-dre0OrQ. This excellent video with Gordon West (WB6NOA) comes from the Ham Nation program, episode 215.  In this video, Gordon shows how radio amateurs remain active by placing a variety of antennas in their attics.  Sometimes, there are no other alternatives because of deed-restricted housing (HOAs and CC&Rs). A few of these compromise antennas work quite well, delivering hours of operating time to antenna-limited areas.  Hopefully, some of these suggestions will help you get and stay on the air. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News &

. If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5B0wCP2Tsdw. Here's a simple, efficient, and inexpensive HF dipole antenna that covers 80 meters to 6 meters.  The key to multiband operation is the use of 300 ohm twin lead as a feeder and a 1:1 ATU balun.  You can also use 450 ohm ladder line or home made balanced line into a 1:4 current balun and then connecting the antenna feed line and balun to an antenna "tuner" with a short length of 50 ohm coaxial cable.  W5XJ provides a list of easily obtainable materials for this versatile antenna.  If you have only one tall support, you can configure the antenna as a dipole "sloper" antenna. 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

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYg9jbdjTIw. Excellent, well-paced video from "Musings" showing us one way to convert a 5/8 wave CB antenna for ham radio use.  Depending on your interests, this video can help you transform an old 11 meter (CB) antenna into an effective vertical antenna for 20, 15, or 10 meters with just a few shop tools and a little imagination. I've converted a few 108-inch/274.32 cm CB whip antennas (from Radio Shack) into usable 10 meter vertical antennas without much difficulty. While this video has a bit of a learning curve, it shouldn't be too hard to copy the procedures shown and build your own, inexpensive HF vertical antenna from unused or discarded CB antennas. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. http:

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mht2YyWAH1I To quote "Tinker John" (W5CYF) in this helpful, informative video, "effective and safe grounding is a complex and often controversial subject." The purpose of this easy to understand video is to show some of the ways to safely ground your entire amateur radio station, and thereby, reduce noise and the risk of injury.  If you have questions this video can't answer, please consult a professional engineer who will identify your specific needs and recommend ways to make your station safe. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWfqZOVqzeA. This is post #1235. Although the telephone wire leading to your home may make an excellent antenna, please be careful how you use this "last resort" antenna. Kevin Loughin (KB9RLW) does a good job of explaining how to adapt your telephone line for radio reception, and warns about the safety precautions involved in using this antenna.  Of particular concern is the 48 volts DC present on an active line and the 90 volts DC present when a call comes in.  That's sufficient voltage to destroy a small transistor radio.  To avoid this issue,  just add a capacitor in series to eliminate the line voltage and a high pass filter to suppress the ringtones. Hopefully, we won't have to resort to this method of communications. But, in this violent century, one never knows when such antenna solutions may be necessary. For the latest Amateur R

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHK7kKsVVw0. One of the most fascinating portions of the electromagnetic spectrum lies in the area below 300 kHz--the realm of Low Frequency (LF) and Very Low Frequency (VLF).  The "basement" of the RF spectrum contains all kinds of interesting signals, from military communications (for submarines, mostly) and time signals to atmospheric noise and the sounds of the Earth itself.  Now that radio amateurs are allowed to explore some of this spectrum (630 meters and 2200 meters), you may want to build an antenna to familiarize yourself with the phenomena present way below the standard broadcast band. In this video, Kevin Loughin shows you an antenna called a "ground spike" that can be used to monitor these very low frequencies.  The antenna is simple, inexpensive, and fun to use. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPGmad2MMVM. "soccerkicker266" has done an excellent job of building this portable 2 meter yagi antenna based on a design by KD5IVP. This radio amateur took the antenna to the summit of Mr. Adams (12,281 feet/3744.2 meters) and was able to contact a repeater in Pullman, Washington 211 miles/341.8 kilometers away with only 5 watts.  A nice, simple, effective antenna for portable use. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6frm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Hawaii Intelli

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnN0NVGqtKQ. A ground radial or counterpoise system is necessary to get maximum performance from your HF vertical antenna.  Installing a ground radial system can take hours if you have to dig a small trench for each radial element. If you plan on having many radials, such as 16 to 32 buried wires, you could spend most of your weekend inserting wires into grooves and covering them up with earth.  In this video, Rich Rogers manages to install a basic ground radial system in about 10 minutes using an electric edger tool and tamping down the wire with his foot.  Plastic lawn staples can be used to hold down the wire until the grass grows back or soil covers the slit trench. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these websites, http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. http://ww

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgQFJYCXpo. Another excellent video tutorial from Peter Parker (VK3YE).  This time, Peter builds a 144 MHz, 4-element yagi antenna.  The emphasis in this video is on dimensions and proper spacing of antenna elements.  This antenna is suitable for a variety of amateur radio uses, including portable/emergency operations, 2-meter SSB, and DX-peditions.  As configured by Peter, the antenna is horizontally polarized. You could add a gamma match to provide a bit more spectrum. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of in

If you can't view this video, please enter this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29CA_IPyg9M. This end-fed halfwave antenna from 2E0VOV is based on the popular "Par Endfedz" QRP multiband antenna.  In this case, 2E0VOV used a FT140-43 toroid with a total of 16 windings and a 100 pf capacitor across the feed point. The 40 meter loading coil is made from 58 feet/17.68 meters of enamel wire wound tightly on a 20 mm form. A good, simple, inexpensive antenna suitable for portable and emergency operations. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://p

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_GGGW9usTQ. If you're hardpressed to get on the air from a deed-restricted property, you may find this quickly designed and built indoor antenna from JC Haywire a possible solution.  The wire antenna was suspended from a support in his apartment stairwell.  Here's the project description: It was a speaker cord from the Walgreens down the street. I split the cord, put one side up the stairwell and tied it to a curtain rod--put the other end into the kitchen and laid it on the floor--and I was getting out of that wood-framed bungalow pretty well. I used an alligator clip to 'ground' the rig and the counterpoise wire to the chair I was sitting in. That's it. Radio is fun! Fairly crude, but it works! For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxZ4rr2aKo. According to KF7TOV, only a few hours are needed to make this portable 2 meter, 3 element yagi antenna.  Most of the parts should be available at the nearest home improvement or building supply outlet.  Your total cash outlay should be around $15.00.  You will find this yagi useful for both home and portable operations, including radio direction finding ("foxhunts") activities. For the latest Amateur Radio News and Information, please visit these web sites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https;//oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated each Friday afternoon). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Hawaii

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch/v=SG9AgVbDxHM. If you need a quick, short antenna mast, then this idea from "Theoffroader" may prove useful.  The antenna was made from surplus lumber and a few hinges. The mast can be lowered when it's not in use--a great idea for a stealth antenna. This short mast (approximately 10 feet/3.04 meters) could be used to support a VHF or UHF antenna. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these web 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Hawaii Intelligence Digest (https://hawaiiintel

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anPhX5kICU. In this video, M6JDM demonstrates another simple way to solder a PL259 connector to coaxial cable. All it takes is a little practice to master this radio art. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-14762335615). Hawaii Intelligence Digest (https://hawaiiintelligencedigest.com). Hawaii Intelligence Daily (https://paper.li/f-1482109921). Be sure to check the blog sidebars for more antenna and propagation articles. Opinions expressed on this bl

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v-6hq7HAOYjZA. Here's a handy, lightweight end-fed HF antenna for portable and emergency operations. KD9EAS says he built this antenna for low wattage QRP use "to be compact and inexpensive."  The antenna uses 33-feet/10.06 meters of hookup wire with a 9:1 unun wrapped on a T-106-2 toroid.  The design is based on the end fed matchbox antenna from the Emergency Radio Club of Honolulu (EARCH). 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476233615). Haw

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IR-8T0QjUjM. A 1:4 current balun is a handy device if you use 450 ohm ladder line, 300 ohm television twin lead, or homebrewed 600 ohm balanced line to feed your antenna. In this video from N7JFP, we see how to make a simple 1:4 HF Current Balun with 15 turns per side.  This balun uses a T-130-2 toroid and 18 gauge copper wire. N7JFP says this is a low power device (around 5 watts) suitable for 20 and 40 meters. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast which is updated every Friday afternoon). Other sites of interest: Hawaii Science Digest (https://paper.li/f-1476234

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch/v=i6VrbsYsx6s. If you live in a deed-restricted antenna environment (HOA/CC&R), this indoor loop from Joe Baille may enable you to get on the air.  According to Joe, he used 86 feet/26.219 meters of #16 AWG wire to form a two-turn loop around the ceiling of his apartment. He used a CG-3000 automatic antenna "tuner" to work several HF bands.  Although there is no commentary or test data provided by Joe, the antenna seems to work.  As long as you keep power below 10 watts you should have no problems with rfi. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & Information). http://www.arrl.org. http://www.arrl.org/arrl-audio-news (a weekly podcast w

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4efv1tb3ME. If you have the space, time, and the help of a few close friends, this full-sized 80 meter loop antenna will be worth the effort to design, build, erect, and use. In this video, Bas Lev (PE4BAS show us the 4-hour project compressed into a few short minutes. With a bit of help from friends or your radio club, construction time can be reduced significantly.  While this antenna is perfect for NVIS (near vertical incident skywave) propagation, it will also perform well on several Amateur Radio HF bands if 450-ohm ladder line or 300-ohm television twin lead is used in conjunction with a balanced antenna "tuner." This loop antenna would be useful on ARRL Field Day events or other portable operations now that propagation is favoring the lower HF bands. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_Q0ORT93M. Here's another informative and well-produced tutorial from Julian (OH8STN), the creator of Survival Tech Nord. Over the past few weeks, Julian has produced a series of videos on "Man Portable Off-grid Power for Amateur Radio". This video addresses the use of solar power for your emergency "GoKit".  Julian's explanations are clear, simple, and thoroughly understandable.  He also discusses antennas and other equipment needed for portable and emergency operations. 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 which is updated each Friday afternoon). https://paper.li/kh6jrm/1430289353 (Amateur Radio News & In

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-s7pbFZyUY. If you want full dipole antenna performance but don't have enough space to erect a full-half wavelength horizontal dipole, then a simple sloping dipole antenna may be the answer.  In video, Stan Gibilisco (W1GV) presents a simple tutorial on how to design, build, and use a slopping dipole antenna.  All you need is one tall support and a place to tie off the bottom part of the sloper.  Stan also discusses what portion of the sloper should be attached to the center pin of your coax feed line.  A simple, inexpensive antenna that will keep you on the air in a restricted space environment. 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 tha

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Peq69M02Bvk. Sometimes, you have to let your imagination run wild, especially when it comes to antennas. In this video, Wilson Hines (W4BWH) finds himself with a lot of property to erect a huge antenna--in this case a 265-foot/80.79 meters "Carolina Windom Antenna." Wilson says he gets great signal reports on all Amateur Radio bands from 160 through 10 meters.  While most of us don't have the room for such a monstrous antenna, we can certainly maximize the space we do have by designing antennas that are efficient and well-built. 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/143028

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uUVMaRFMv4. Here's a simple antenna that you may want to try for your next Amateur Radio activity. In this video, Hiram Vazquez takes us step-by-step in the design, building, and use of a Delta Loop Antenna.  The Delta Loop receives well, exhibits low noise, shows some gain over a dipole antenna (about 3 dB), and can be built from locally available materials.  You can feed a delta loop antenna with 50-ohm coaxial cable for single band use or with 450 ohm ladder line for multiband use. For multiband coverage, design the antenna for the lowest frequency of use, use 450 ohm ladder line as a feeder, and run the feeder through a balanced antenna "tuner" or a 4:1 balun before connecting the antenna system to your HF transceiver. For the latest Amateur Radio news and information, please visit these sites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. https://oahu