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=Tbh-IK7KIcg This is post 2313 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. In this video, Pete Hadley (K6BFA) shows how different hams have passed antenna lines through glass windows without damaging the window or the feed line. For a very simple solution to this problem, I recommend using a window pass through kit sold by MFJ Enterprises (model 4603). You can also find various homebrew pass through systems on the internet.  Please check out this topic from "Tinker Tom" (W5CYF) at https://w5cyf.wordpress.com. ----- Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=th9bPEm9i9k This is post 2312 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. In this video, Callum McCormick (M0MCX) discusses how to design, build, test, and use compact antennas for the 80/160 meter amateur radio bands. Callum does a good job of describing his experimental linear loaded inverted L antenna--something which is easy to build and fits into an urban lot. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8RVqsdnKow This is post 2311 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to "Prepping Ohio" for this tutorial on how to build a simple 3-element 2 meter beam antenna. The antenna is vertically polarized, allowing for distant repeat contacts.  Most of the materials are available at the nearest hardware store or building supply outlet.  You may find many of the materials at your own home. The antenna is based on the "classic" Yagi-Uda design from the 1920s and 1930s. ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. https://www.blubrry.com/ar...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhzXRIj5FaY This is post 2210 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Paul of "learningelectronics" for this simple, effective way to splice wire.  This splice is known by various names, including the "NASA Wire Splice."   This splice will come in handy for those of us who design, build, and repair homemade antennas.  This splice is strong and holds up well in most environmental conditions.  Be sure to protect the splice against the weather. Here are some of Paul's remarks: Get professional PCBs for low prices from www.pcbway.com --~-- How to splice a wire In this video we look at how NASA splices wires. If it's good enough for the space program, it's good enough for me. NASA Standards: http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/codeq/d... 937D Soldering Station: http://amzn.to/2t3isiZ 22 AWG Hookup Wir...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Zqss03fcRc This is post 2209 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. If you're using a vertical HF antenna, you know the importance of establishing a good ground radial or counterpoise system. In this well-paced video from Callum (M0MCX), we see the ground radial project taken to its reasonable limit, with almost 405 meters/1,329 feet of wire prepared to insure an efficient radial field. If you have lots of room and want to improve the performance of your HF vertical antenna, then this is the way to go. Here are some general comments from Callum: I used Arctic Grade DX10 for these radials for my eXtreme Nebula multi-band vertical currently in development. These 45 x 1/8th wave radials are equivalent to 22 x 1/4 radials for 80m; 5 x wavelengths - and a whopping 10 wavengths on 40m. Heck.. that'll give me 20 wavelengths of radial...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEWb_H2m5k4 This is post 2208 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Do you need a small, compact, lightweight, and easily portable antenna for your 2 meter activities?  If you do, then this basic 2 meter Moxon Antenna is for you.  Paul Athersmith does an excellent job of taking us step-by-step through the design, building, testing, and use of this sturdy antenna. Paul describes his antenna with this comment: My 2M Moxon antenna, simple and easy to build. Very light weight and ideal for portable work. Step by step instructions. ----- Here's another 2 meter antenna project that you may enjoy, especially if you live in a deed-restricted property (HOA/CC&R): Portune, John (W6NBC), "The Rooster-Tenna-A 2-Meter Weathervane Antenna", "QST", August 2020, pp. 38-39. ---- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news an...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tIZUhu21sQ This is post 2207 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. For those radio amateurs experimenting with antennas and feed lines, you may want to make a "Sea Water Antenna" similar to the one published by "SPAWAR Systems Center Pacific." The antenna is interesting if it works as presented.  Here's some more information from the company: "SPAWAR Systems Center Pacific has developed a technology that uses the magnetic induction properties of sodium chloride (salt) in sea water to create UHF/VHF/HF antenna." Even if the antenna doesn't work, you may have fun designing one and testing it out at the nearest lake or ocean beach. ----- Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZzLLX7xcks This is post 2206 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas.  In this video, Jez (2J4EZ) shows us how to go bicycle mobile and get the benefits of both amateur radio and exercise. According to Jez, his simple bicycle mobile station is easily installed and gives excellent performance on the road.  Here are some comments from Jez: In this week video ive decided to put the yaesu ft857d radio on my bike and use the 20m antenna and have a quick tune around the 20m band and make contacts on 20m Comment Like and thumbs up and subscribe it tells youtube i'm doing a good job Thanks for watching A nicely done, effective mobile station. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-vpRMQWanw This is post 2305 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Greg Alexander for this thorough discussion on how to design, build, tune, test, and use this popular HF antenna.  In this video, Gregg configures the Inverted V as a "fan dipole" antenna. Here are some of Gregg's observations: A video documenting the process of building a dipole. How to build and tune a 40 meter Inverted V wire dipole HF antenna. Here I build a multi-band dipole antenna for HF use on 40-20-15-10-6 meters. Some call this a fan dipole. This is just a quick video of what I have setup for a 40/20 meter antenna. This antenna has been working very well for me in spite of how close it is to the ground. In a pinch it will even. Snow day project with the kids making a 40m ham radio dipole antenna. ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Ra...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ir51s_PbJfg This is post 2304 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. "Ham Nation" is one of my favorite Amateur/Ham Radio video programs.  In this program, Bob Heil (K9EID) discusses the theory, design, construction, and testing of coaxial dipole antennas. His notes are concise, accurate, and quite helpful for radio amateurs wanting to experiment with this "classic" dipole antenna. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01A8K-ECkMs&app=desktop This is post 2203 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. If you or your club needs a portable, easily deployed mast for emergency communications, why not get the "AIR 25 Inflated Tower" for your "field" operations? Here's a brief discussion of the tower from the manufacturer's video: "Quick Start Guide to setting up a 25 foot tall inflatable antenna tower invented by LTA Projects...and built especially for Amateur Radio and for CERT Teams. This is a revolutionary way to temporarily put your antenna up. Perfect where there are neighborhood restrictions on permanent antennas...or just to take your rig on the road with you. Or use it with a cell repeater if you're an RV-er on the road looking for better cell reception at your stops in remote areas. It performs amazingly well i...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gie7L3gxLII This is post 2302 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Andrew McNeil does an excellent job of taking us step-by-step in the design and construction of a basic 2.4 GHz helical antenna. This is a fun project which can be modified for other UHF/SHF amateur/ham radio bands. ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. https://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. https://paper.li/f-1576465810 (breaking Amateur/Ham Radio News). Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KHJ6JRM).

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3R-b00pLbw This is post 2301 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. In this video from "connly33", we see how a simple counterpoise wire can help increase the range and performance of your HT.  The free mod is easy to make and even easier to use.  Here is a comment from "connly33": J"ust a quick video on ways to increase performance of a hand held ham radio by attaching a counterpoise" ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://www.eham.net. https://paper.li/f-1576465810 (breaking Amateur/Ham R...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6PcRlmXpt0 This is post 2300 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Every amateur radio station needs a "dummy load" to test equipment without going on the air. In this video from Tony (KD8RTT), we learn how to make a simple low-power dummy load from locally available parts.  This video would make an excellent program for your next radio club meeting or for an upcoming amateur radio license class. ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.hamradioupdate.com. http://www.southgatearc.org. https://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. https://paper.li/f-1576465810 (breaking ...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2hIjQhUsJ0 This is post 2299 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. In this well-constructed tutorial, Johnny (W5KV) shows what equipment and antennas are necessary for your emergency"Go-Bag" or "Go-Kit."  Every radio amateur should have emergency communications equipment nearby should a natural or human-made disaster occur. ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www.hamradioupdate.com http://www.southgatearc.org. https://www.blubrry.com/arrlaudionews/ https://oahuarrlnews.wordpress.com. https://hamradiohawaii.wordpress.com. https://bigislandarrlnews.com. https://www.eham.net. https://paper.li/f-1576465810 (breaking Amateur/Ham Radio News). ----- Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (K...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9th_JBfMIk This is post 2298 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to OH8STN for this helpful suggestion for radio amateurs operating in deed-restricted (HOA/CC&R) properties.  One way to get on the air without being seen is by using a stealth or hidden antenna in your attic.  In this case a magnetic loop antenna can get you on the air without too much trouble.  Here are some additional comments from OH8STN: OH8STN Ham Radio 30.8K subscribers JOIN SUBSCRIBED Hello Operators A former colleague and good friend in Ukraine, asked about a stealth antenna, and how it might work for his situation. The operator asked about magnetic loop antennas for HF, and if they could be would be completely hidden from view, by the surrounding community. In this video, I am using an attic mounted magnetic loop an...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpPfNHHU6AA This is post 2297 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. The video explores the growing popularity of pedestrian mobile operation by radio amateur.  This program features some of fascinating HF antennas used by Australian ham Peter Parker (VK3YE). Here are some comments from the program: This month's presentation from AREG (Amateur Radio Experimenters Group) is by guest speaker Peter VK3YE who will talk about operating on HF Pedestrian Mobile! Many will be familiar with Peter's YouTube channel and range of books on amateur radio. In this presentation Peter will talk about: - What you can do with today's band conditions - Equipment and batteries to use - Light and effective antennas for use on 7- 50 MHz - Easy ways to get started The date: Friday July 17th – 7.30pm ACST (8pm AEST, 1000 UTC) https://www.areg.org.a...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OghxGaAvkE This is post 2296 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Steve (K5ATA) for this good, basic introduction on how to design, build, test, and use a 40 meter dipole antenna.  A homebrew dipole antenna is easy to make and costs very little. Here are some of Steve's comments: Welcome to another episode of Ham Radio Basics. This episode is all about how to build that dipole antenna. I needed a dipole antenna for portable use in my POTA activations. You can build a dipole with, or without a balun. It is a good idea to wrap the coax a few times to form a choke when not using a balun. Equipment in the Shack: https://www.amazon.com/shop/goodgameh... I am an Amazon Associate, so I make a small commission on purchases through that link to help support the channel. Thanks! Please SUBSCRIBE and LIKE. WEBPAGE: http://www...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qs-iC5mTo9k .  This is post number 2295 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Callum McCormick (M0MCX) for this informative and somewhat humorous look at wire antennas.  Callum does a good job of explaining the theory, design, construction, and testing of simple wire antennas.  Here are some of his remarks: "Let's look at antenna basics. Height above ground, resonance, folding back elements and more. Thanks to the Telford and District Amateur Radio Society for hosting my talk. 73. Callum." This video would make an excellent presentation for your radio club or for a basic Amateur licensing class. Thanks for joining us today. Aloha es 73 de Russ (KH6JRM).

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBN4FnblVnE This is post 2294 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. In part 2 of this delta loop antenna video, Gil (RadioPreppers.com) deploys the 30M delta loop, makes final adjustments, cuts wire to the proper length, and attaches the 4:1 BALUN.  Here are some comments from Gil: "Part 1: https://youtu.be/F1wLSUVBPMI This time I cut my wire to the correct length and successfully deployed my delta loop antenna for 30m. The 4:1 BALUN turned out to be the best matching option. Great performance, but not as easy to set up as anticipated. The delta loop is probably best for 6 to 20m operations. Get more content and help this channel: https://www.patreon.com/radioprepper " ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiARRL.info. http://www.arrl.org. http://www....

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1wLSUVBPMI This is post 2293 in a continuing series of simple ham radio antennas. Thanks to Gil of the "RadioPreppers.com" website for this two-part tutorial on designing, building, testing, and using a 30M delta loop antenna. In part one, Gil shows us the materials and construction practices needed to bring this antenna to life.  He also describes the mistakes he made in making the antenna--something he corrects in part 2.  The video takes us step-by-step through this interesting antenna project. Here are some of Gil's observations from part 1: "Since my 6m Delta Loop seems to work pretty well I decided to build one for the 30m band to be used with my Spiderbeam 12m mast. Unfortunately I cut it too short. The balun works well. I need to try a quarter wave of 75 Ohm coax instead, just for testing... Note that fed a one lower corne...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQ7rpf7MX2I This is post 2292 in an ongoing series of simple ham radio antennas. Peter of the UK-based "Waters & Stratton" Ham Store does an excellent job of presenting the basics of both HF and VHF/UHF mobile operating.  Peter's sound advice will help you design, install, and use your mobile equipment safely.  In the interests of safety, Peter recommends mobile operations only after you've parked in a safe place.  Here are some additional comments: "You need not spend a fortune on an HF mobile antenna. You may already have the basics from your VHF antenna installation. We discuss the potential problems and the economical methods of avoiding them. Check out this link. https://hamradiostore.co.uk/search/?q... " ----- For the latest Amateur/Ham Radio news and information, please visit these websites: http://www.HawaiiAR...