|
|
|
Antennas made for QRO, QRP and portable use
This antenna fits that bill. Now there is a lightweight portable antenna that fits the needs of QRPers, QRO & portable operation and can be also used in attics where CC&Rs restrict antenna use. It is NOT designed nor meant for operation on a vehicle in motion.
I make my antennas from simple materials that require no maintenance and can be adapted for portable use, QRP use and when there is no choice allowed due to CC&Rs or other restrictions, it can be placed in an attic.
The antenna is a made to order multiple band antenna that uses an alligator clip "wander lead" to choose
the band you wish to work. If you have an antenna tuner, the alligator clip is
clipped at the bottom of the antenna coil and the tuner matches the antenna
to the frequency you wish to use. Each antenna has it's own chart shows the optimum frequency when the alligator clip is placed on individual turns of
the coil. In some cases, the coils will have a multiple frequency that is usable
with the alligator clip. The chart references the indented turns of the coil.
In those cases where the frequency you wish to work is not shown, a tuner will be
required to work that frequency.
The overall height of the antenna when in use is approximately seven feet. If
you wish to use another whip on the top of the antenna, the standard 3/8"X24
thread is there allowing use of longer or shorter whips. For transporting the
antenna, the whip simply unscrews from the top and the antenna is ready to
go. The overall length of the main antenna body without the mast is under four
feet.
The antenna can be used on a spring mount, a flat plate mount or clamped to
a post. I use a PVC stand to run a frequency test the units after I assemble
them. No radials or counterpoise are used during the tests. With use, you will find your own ways of operating them that fit your own needs.
Being a lightweight antenna offers many options for use where other heavier antennas would
require a heavier duty support. But being lightweight does not compromise the sturdiness of
the antenna. The coil is a sixteen gauge wire coil firmly fixed to the PVC body. The internal
wiring between the coil and the top and bottom of the antenna uses a minimum fourteen gauge wire
and so does the "wander lead" with the alligator clip. The internal wiring is crimped and soldered to
connectors at the top and bottom. The bolt that holds the top whip adapter on is firmly set and
uses a set pin to keep the unit secure. The lower threaded rod is peened to keep the internal
nut from coming loose while in use. Thread lock is used on any place that has to be tightened
and remain tight.
|
|
|