How to Make a Ham Radio Speaker Wire Antenna. Post #1596.

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqh0Ntus5G0.

If you need a simple, efficient, cheap, and lightweight antenna for portable or field operations, the "HQD" Speaker Wire Antenna from Jerry (KG6HQD) may be the answer.  The antenna resembles several designs featured in past editions of the "ARRL Antenna Book."  Those examples used commonly available "zip cord" available at many hardware and home improvement outlets.  Jerry shows us how to build the antenna in a few simple steps.  Used with an antenna transmatch (i.e. "tuner"), the antenna is capable of multiband operation--something that should appeal to SOTA (Summits on the Air) and QRP (low power) enthusiasts. 

Based on research conducted by the ARRL and my own experience, these antennas provide excellent results on the lower HF bands (80/40 meters).  Higher HF bands may suffer significant losses, depending on the feed line used.  None the less, this project will provide you with an easily-made, lightweight antenna suitable for portable and emergency use.  Make a "HQD" antenna and put it in your "go-box".  A compromise antenna is better than no 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://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com.
https://bigislandarrlnews.com.
https://amateurradionewsinformation.com (Amateur Radio News & Information).
https://www.eham.net.
http://www.southgatearc.org.

Thanks for joining us today.

Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).