Simple Ham Radio Antennas

If you can't view this video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqsfQngkpmM. Now that 160 meters and other low HF bands (80 meters and 40 meters) are becoming more popular because of the approaching solar minimum, you may want to design, build, and use an antenna specifically dedicated for "The Gentlemen's Band (160 meters)."  Erecting such an antenna, even for a 1/4 wavelength vertical, involves some serious height and space requirements (135 ft/41.15 meters). You can reduce the length and height requirements by building an inverted L antenna for this band, where the wire is partially vertical and partially horizontal.  In this video, Stephen Desmarais has done just that and has managed to squeeze in a 160 meter antenna using his back yard.  Stephen also includes a "tuning box" and a ground radial/counterpoise system to make the antenna more efficient and to reduce rfi in the shack. For the lat...

If you're having trouble viewing this video, please insert this title link into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqsfQnkpmM. Now that winter has arrived and shorter days are upon us, you may want to try some contacts on the 160 meter amateur radio band , which is just above the standard AM broadcast band in the United States .  Noise tends to be a bit lower during the shorter hours of daylight and signals will be enhanced if you use "grey line" propagation.  The only drawback to 160 meter operations is the rather large antennas required, especially in terms of height.  You may want to consider the solution described and demonstrated by Steven Desmarais, who has designed and built a simple inverted L antenna for the "Gentlemen's Band."  Inverted L antennas are also suitable for 80 and 40 meters where vertical heights can be limiting factor .  Along with a good ground radial or counterpoise system, the inverted L makes an excellent...