Simple Ham Radio Antennas

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_makoOL-m8 .  This is post 2191 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Here are some helpful ARRL Field Day Antenna suggestions from Rob ("SevenFortyOne").  Even if you're forced by the COVID-19 pandemic to operate by yourself, you'll find Rob's ideas useful and effective whether you stay at home or find an isolated spot in the "field." Here are some of Rob's comments: "This portable Ham Radio antenna is something I put together from spare materials I had lying around the house one afternoon. It's a 40 meter inverted V made from a cheap WalMart cutting board, some left over 14 gauge wire, a 12 foot telescoping painter's pole, some scrap PVC trim board, and a few scrap pieces of re-bar. I plan to make some changes as time permits. A link to the revised version: https://youtu.be/fg52EAX5Y5I...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkiht95YCP4 .  This is post 2190 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to M0JCQ for this outstanding introduction to SOTA (Summits On The Air) and other portable amateur/ham radio "field" operations. According to M0JCQ, "This video takes you through my standard kit for HF SOTA/Portable operations.  It outlines what I take and why.  You get to see the Elecraft KX3 in use towards the end." Even if you don't prefer SOTA or portable operations, why not make one of these antennas for emergency or home use?  Try one out during the ARRL Field Day event on 27-28 June 2020. ----- 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. ...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-SgA_qno9A .  This is post 2189 in a continuing series of simple Ham Radio Antennas. If you live in a deed-restricted home/apartment and have access to an attic, then getting on the air with modified antennas becomes a real possibility. In this video from "Road Rage 810", we see how one radio amateur solved the "no antennas allowed" issue with a little creativity and imagination. In this case, the radio amateur was able to install an Alpha Delta DX-CC HF antenna and a N9TAX 2m/70cm in his attic with only a few modifications.  Any antenna is better than no antenna. ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.Hawaii ARRl.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. https://oahuarrlnews.wordp...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeumSDLXBKM .  This is post 2188 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. The annual ARRL Field Day Emergency Communications Exercise is set for the last full weekend in June.  Depending on the outcome of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, you may not be able to join your club or your friends in the "field" this year.  Why not operate (class 1D or 1E) from your home this year? In this video, Tracy of "Outdoors On The Air" shows us how he prepared for a home Field Day station a few years ago.  You could do the same and still enjoy the long distance friendships and competition that this annual event brings without exposing yourself to a viral infection.  Here are some of Tracy's comments: "Can't get out into the "real field" for ham radio Field Day? Maybe you should mount an expedition into your backyard. I...

If you can't see the video, please enter this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-t8NBL67fc .  This is post 2187 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Australian radio amateur Peter Parker (VK3YE) for this fascinating version of the "classic" vertical extended double zepp antenna for the 6 and 2 meter amateur radio bands. Peter says this antenna is "a very simple and very good omnidirectional antenna for VHF simplex and repeaters and does 6 meters as well." Just follow Peter's clear directions and you'll have this inexpensive antenna ready in just a few hours. ----- 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...

If you can't see the video, please enter this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONiupJz1Bic&app=desktop .  This is post 2186 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Many radio amateurs in the U.S. are "sheltering-in-place" while health officials try to stop the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. Dave Casler (KE0OG) says he'll spend some time fixing equipment and replacing bad PL-259 connectors in his ham shack. In this clear, simple video, Dave shows us an excellent way to replace bad or failing PL-259 connectors on coaxial cables. Dave shares some of his thoughts on the process: "Since we all need to stay at home anyway, let's fix up the station! I need to review a new mobile radio, and the connector on my VHF/UHF antenna went bad, so I put on a new crimp-type connector. Watch the step-by-step procedure. Subscribe: https://youtube.com/user/davecasler . Ask Dave Playlist: https://goo.gl/inaQeB ...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser searchbox:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2l1ho7aJtAw .  This is post 2185 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Are you having a difficult time reaching your favorite VHF/UHF repeater because your deed-restricted home or apartment prohibits ham radio antennas?  If this is the case, then this clever, simple J-Pole antenna from WJ6F may provide some answers for you.  The antenna works well and is stealthy at the same time. Here are some construction notes: "Click THIS LINK to learn how to make your very own Stealth Antenna!! https://youtu.be/2l1ho7aJtAw For those who live under a homeowner's association (HOA). The original concept for a stealth J-Pole video was AF5DN which can be seen at https://youtu.be/aJZwPK_MUDY Items Used: Arrow Antenna's J-Pole OSJ 146/440 - HRO ( https://amzn.to/2HRa1uZ ) 3/4" Threaded Schedule 40 pipe - Home Depot 3/4" Cap - H...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser's search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuCSdAr1yDo .  This is post 2184 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the ARRL Field Day remains set for the last full weekend in June.  It's not too early to be thinking about the transceiver and antenna you'll deploy that weekend. In this video from "Outdoors On The Air", we get a good look at a fairly new end-fed HF antenna from The HyEnd Company. The antenna is compact, lightweight, and covers 80 meters through 10 meters. Here's a brief review of this antenna: "The HyEnd Company have released a new antenna, the Field Day 8-band Antenna. This 80-10 meter endfed was designed for portable ham radio operations. Let's take a look at the antenna, then watch as I utilize it in the 2019 ARRL Field Day Contest. For more information on the HyEndFed Field Day antenna, c...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=th9bPEm9i9k&list=PUEWRZEIjVQB8aUkyUQ-g-zA&index=63 .  This is post 2183 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. If you're having a difficult time getting an 80 meter or 160 meter antenna to fit the limited space of your property, then this video from Callum (M0MCX) may help solve your problem. Callum explores a number of possible solutions, ranging from linear loading an inverted L to more complex answers involving coils, segmented dipoles, and even loop antennas. Here are some of Callum's notes: "Inverted Ls do work for these low bands but what if you don't even have that amount of space? Perhaps linear loading an inverted L might do the trick, although the bandwidth might be tight - and the impedance might not be perfect either. Anyway, we'll see. HEY! Subscribe here: https://goo.gl/thM5Vq My Shop: https...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZwejsAMZUo .  This is post 2182 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Tim (G5TM) for this enjoyable and thoroughly interesting tutorial on how to make a "classic" HF Doublet Antenna fit into a very small space--in this case a backyard garden.  His efforts were rewarded with some interesting contacts on several amateur/ham radio bands. If you have space limitations for your HF antennas, please follow Tim's suggestions and see what you can do.  You may be surprised at just how well your new antenna performs. ----- 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.word...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-d3g957EaQ8 .  This post 2181 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to George Donaldson (EI7KO) for this simple, inexpensive method of making open wire feeders for HF antennas.  The main problem with do it yourself (DIY) balanced feed lines is getting a sufficient number of wire spreaders for the feed line.  George has come up with some good ideas in this regard. Balanced feeders are great for feeding loop and dipole antennas.  With a balanced "tuner", it's possible for a HF dipole to cover several Amateur/Ham Radio bands. For another interesting open wire feeder design, please check out the March 2020 "QST", pp. 30-33.  Robert J. Zavrel, Jr. (W7SX) shows you another method of making open wire line for your antenna. For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio News and Information, please visit these websites: ...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWq4tgLH-yI .  This is post 2180 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Australian radio amateur Peter Parker (VK3YE) for this simple antenna mast project.  Rather than using metal or PVC pipe for his HF antenna mast, Peter finds pine wood a good substitute for more expensive mast materials. The original mast was 6 meters (19.68 feet) long with a 2 meter (6.56 feet) top section added later. Here's how Peter describes his mast: "Timber mast suitable for supporting lightweight wire antennas. The mast is 6 metres tall plus a 2 metre top extension. It tilts over for easy work on antennas. The antenna supports dipoles for 40, 20 and 10 metres, coming off the one feedpoint. 15 metre operation is provided by the 40m dipole. 80 metres is covered by adding loading coils to the 40 metre dipole. The antenna is similar to...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8-jxMtpklw&app=desktop .  This is post 2179 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Michael Martens (KB9VBR) for this informative review of portable power options for your ham radio station.  Although this video only suggests antenna and power options for portable and emergency radio operations, it would be a good idea to consider what Michael is saying in our unsettled world. Please take an inventory of your home and shack  supplies to see if you and your family have sufficient resources to survive if you are cut off from stores and neighbors.  At the very least, you'll get an indication of what you need before panic buying begins. Here are some of Michael's ideas: "My recent video on my portable HF transceiver kit generated a lot of questions on what I use for a power supply. So as I’m prepping for an up...

If you can't view the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=rKV_yZOBJ0Q .  This is post 2178 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to "Outdoors On The Air" for this exceptionally clear explanation and testing of the popular "Mini Windom" from Tim (N9SAB).  Although this antenna is no longer being sold, you may be able to find the kit at a hamfest or "Makers Faire." This antenna is ideal for portable operations such as SOTA, IOTA, and even ARRL Field Day events.  An excellent, moderately priced antenna worth the search. ----- 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...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehjKrJ-TH_w .  This is post 2177 in a continuing series of simiple ham radio antennas. Thanks to "Chappy Happy" for this simple indoor receiving loop antenna for general shortwave/ham radio listening.  The antenna covers 5 MHz through 14 MHz. Here are some general comments regarding this DIY antenna. "HF Loop Antenna DIY - Simple & Easy to Build Advantages: Simple & Cost Effective, Suitable for Indoor Installations, Compact in Size, and High Directivity" 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. https://...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRTo01Qttbc .  This is post 2176 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Dave Casler (KE0OG) for tackling the controversial question of the better antenna--verticals or dipoles. The short answer is "it all depends"... "Vertical or dipole? Which is better for you? Antenna modeling software (EZNEC+) helps answer the question!" Dave does a good job of laying out the pros and cons of each antenna design. Your choice will depend on many environmental, material, and permitting factors. About all you can do is experiment to see which design works best for you. As for myself, I use several antenna types, including dipoles, verticals, and loops. All work well for specific applications. Your results will vary. Dave's explanations are clear, concise, and "right on the money." ----- For the latest A...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvZ7z-6wAy0 .  This is post 2175 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Michael Martens (KB9VBR) takes us through the theory, design, construction, and testing of NVIS (near vertical skywave) antennas. These "cloudwarmer" HF antennas are perfect for state and regional communications, with signals reaching between 100 and 300 miles (162 to 486 km).  As Michael explains, NVIS antennas are easy to make and can fill in communications gaps not covered by VHF/UHF repeaters: " Near Vertical Incidence Skywave Propagation is an effective form of HF communication for stations in a 100 - 300 mile range. Ideal for Emcomm, the emergency communicator should be familiar with the use of NVIS antennas and propagation. Support Ham Radio Q&A by shopping at Amazon: http://amzn.to/2kO6LH7 Read my blog: http://www.jpole-antenna.com Colo...