Antenna Articles

Collection of short articles relating to all manners of antennas. These
articles are the hard work of Wayne Sarosi KB4YLY (995 Alabama Street,
Titusville, FL 32796)


SUBJECT: Circular Polarized Antenna

    There has been a request for a series on 'CP' antennas.  The term
'CP' eluded me at first as I was not familar with the abriviated 
designator for circular polarization.  At work, we just use the entire
words.

    I'm going to begin this ten part series with the basics.  After
researching CP designs with a few engineers and fellow hams, I found
that they knew very little about the subject.  I also found I didn't
know quite as much as I thought I did about circular polarization.  So
starting at the begining will help all out.

    First, let's discuss the circular polarized wave.  There seems to
be conflicting standards used by the world of physics and the IEEE.
I found this to be true in four reference manuals including the ARRL
Antenna Handbook.  At least it's stated right up front but biased
according to which text you read.  We will follow the IEEE/ARRL standard
in the following series for obvious reasons.  

    There are two types of circular polarization; right and left.
All of us agree up to this point.  According to the ARRL Antenna Handbook, 
the following statement:

              'Polarization Sense is a critical factor, especially 
     in EME work or if the satellite uses a circular polarized antenna.
     In physics, clockwise rotation of an approaching wave is called 
     "right circular polarization," but the IEEE standard uses the term 
     "clockwise circular polarization" for a receeding wave.  Amateur 
     terminology follows the IEEE standard, calling clockwise 
     polarization for a receeding wave as right-hand.'

    Confused yet?  I read it five times before it sunk in.  Physics uses
'right', IEEE uses 'clockwise', the ARRL follows the IEEE and calls
it 'right-hand'.  Just remember the 'right-hand' or 'clockwise' is
for a receeding wave or one that is going away from you.

[You have one minute to flap your lips with your finger and read the
above paragraphs again.] ;-)

    Ok, now we know a reference that we can base "right-hand circular
polarization" on.  Now I have an experiment for you to try.  Obtain
a hard rubber ball from the kids or a neighbor's kid and try this:  drop
the ball with a "right-hand polarization" spin and watch which way
the ball spins as it bounces towards you.  You'll find it will spin
in the opposite direction [this works great with a super ball].  This 
is exactly what happens in EME work. The "right-hand circular polarized" 
signal returns in the opposite polarity.  The same holds true for passing 
satellites using circular polarization.  An approaching satellite's 
circular polarized wave will reverse as it passes.

    Another quote from the ARRL Antenna Handbook states that the 
circular polarized wave and a linear wave are mathmatically special
cases of an elipical wave.  When the magnitudes are the same and phase 
angles are 90 degrees in time, we have circular polarization.  

    One antenna that uses circular polarization is the helical antenna.
It comes in two flavors, LHCP and RHCP for left and right hand circular
polarized.  As stated on the previous posting, RHCP is a clockwise rotation
as the wave receeds from the point for transmission.  The RHCP helical
antenna is phsyically configured this way with the turns of the helix
rotating clockwise away from the mounting point.

    The LHCP helix is phsyically configured counter-clockwise away from the
mounting point.  The helix is an end-fed antenna.  For satellite and EME
work, both LHCP and RHCP helix antennas are required for proper signal
reception as the polarization changes when the satellite passes overhead or
the returning signal from an EME transmission is received.  

    Below are some other CP antennas for you to 
look at that are used at the Kennedy Space Center.  For a refernce of 
Helical Antennas, read the ARRL Antenna Handbook, pages 19-22 thru 19-33
in the 16th edition.  To repost the figures here would require several
listings, but an overview will be coming in the series.

    In general, the helix is very predicable in gain and pattern.  
Introduced in the 40s, the helical antenna resembles nothing more than
a large air-wound coil with characteristics showing its electrical
pattern. 

    There are other types of antennas with circular polarization such 
as the cavity backed sprial which comes in the same flavors, LHCP and
RHCP.  These type of antennas are commercial grade and seldom used
in the amateur world.  One strange antenna is the 'twisted yagi' of
which I am still trying to find some info on.  I don't know if the
name is correct, but I have heard it refered to that way.  The twisted
yagi is nothing more than a yagi with the elements offset in a
continous rotating fashion.  Each element is positioned about 30 degrees
from the one before.  They can get rather long for the designed frequency.
I'll see what I can dig up on this type.
    
    For true CP design, the choice of antennas are limited.  Elipical
patterns are most used for satellite and EME use.  We can look into
these antennas also if there are no objections.

    ---------------------------------------------------------------

    HELIX:  Well, I promised some figures for all of you concerning
the helix antenna as it is probably the most popular CP antenna.  After
researching the subject of helix antennas, I found the design parameters
are all basically the same with the only difference being the variables
used to describe the different values.  The ARRL Antenna Handbook has
a very detailed construction dialog.  There are plenty of pictures
and easy to use formulas.  A couple of technical antenna theory books 
at work and from college tend to bury themselves in mathmatical theory
removed from practical application that we require for working models.

    Theory is good, don't get me wrong, but theory at college level for 
amateurs that have not been to college, is not good for contruction.
It assumes too much on the average amateur in the area of math.

    For now, I will give the basic design parameters for the helix 
antenna and then conclude with the some information on the cavity backed 
spiral.


    In the ARRL Antenna Handbook, 16th ed, 19-22, provides about the best
description of a helix and how to build one.

    The Helix has two componets; a ground plane and the helix.  It is fed
with a coax.  The diameter of the ground plane is 0.8 to 1.1 wave lengths
in diameter.  This section is connected electrically to the coax braid.

    Since ASCII does not provide all those neat little greek letters I'll
have to improvise here.

    C is the circumference of a coiled turn.
    S is the spacing between one coil and the next.
    G is the diameter of the ground plane.
    g is the gap between G and the begining of the coils.
    AR is the axial ratio
    D is the diameter of a coil turn.
    n is the number of turns
    L is the length of conductor in one turn.
    w is the wave length.
    Z is the impedance in ohms
    Gain is the gain of the antenna (now that was a smart statement)
    HPBW is the half power bandwidth


    C = 0.75w to 1.33w where w = 984/fMHz in ft or 300/fMHz for meters

    S = 0.2126*C to 0.2867*C

    G = 0.8w to 1.1w

    g = 0.12w to 0.13w at 45 degrees to the ground plane.
        Note: This is similar to the distance between a DE and D1 in a yagi.

    AR = 2n+1/2n  which should be as near to unity as possible.  The 
         closer you can get this ratio to one the closer you will 
         have a pure circular pattern.

    D = C/3.1415927 => 0.2387w to 0.35w

    n => use AR until you get a balance between a good ratio and a 
         practical length you can handle.
         AR = 2n+1/2n => n=6 then 13/12 = 1.083333, n=3 then 7/6 = 1.1666,
         n=10 then 21/20 = 1.05.  As you can see there isn't a vast 
         improvement between 6 and 10 turns.  n=15 then 31/30 = 1.03333.
         Not much more here either.

    L = sqrt[(piD)^2 + S^2]

    Z = 140*C ohms which is 0.75w*140 to 1.33w*140 ohms

    HPBW = 52/(C*sqrt[n*S]) degrees

    Gain = 11.8 + 10log((C^2) *n*S))

    First nulls beamwidth = 115/(C*sqrt[n*S]) degrees

    Pitch angle between the coils should be 12 to 16 degrees or
    arctan(S/C)

    --------------------------------------------------------------

    Heres some stats from an antenna we use at the EMLab.  The antenna
is a broadband cavity backed spiral antenna made by EM systems, model
A2200.  It's good from 1 to 18 GHz with an SWR of 1.8:1 over the entire
band.
              Diameter = 6.85-in
              gain = 0 dB minimum 5.5 dB max
              Polarization = LHC or RHC
              axial ratio = 3 dB
              3dB Beam width = 80 degrees
              MIL-E-16400 class 2 equip.


SUBJECT:  Gamma modification for better symmetry & gain

       This subject has been discussed before on the HAM echo and will be 
further discussed here with more detail.

       Most gamma matching devices are mounted to the side of the driven 
element.  This technique is good for matching, but does not provide good 
pattern.  The symmetry of the antenna pattern is distorted to the side of the 
antenna that the gamma match is located on.  Several antenna brands were 
tested with all brands tested showing the same result.  The pattern produced 
by the side mounted gamma is kidney shaped.  This shaping accounts for the 
fact that you can hear a signal on one side of the beam and not the other.  
The side to side ratio is not consistant.  In the case of horizontal beams, 
the gamma hangs down, wasting gain and affording a loss of signal reception 
that could otherwise be used.

       What would it take to move this lost antenna gain and sensitivity into 
the area of the pattern that could be utilized?  Not a whole lot in fact.  The 
entire modification can be done in under a half an hour and for less than a 
dollar.  What results is that the wasted gain to the side of a vertical beam 
is moved forward and the wasted gain under a horizontal beam is moved into the 
horizontal plane forward.  The average gain increase is near 1.5 dB over the 
previous gain rating of the antenna.  What this means is that if your antenna 
produces 10 dBi it will now produce 11.5 dbi.  Your Cushcraft eleven element 
yagi rated at 13.2 dBi will now produce 14.7 dBi.  13 dB is equal to a gain of 
20, 16 dB is a gain of 40, so you can see the improvement. 

       To accomplish this, you will need to remove the gamma match from the 
antenna.  Remove the di-electric innards and replace with a piece of RG-8
foam di-electric about 3-in longer.  Pivot the tuning arm 90 degrees so that 
it faces the first director.  Insert the gamma back into the tuning arm.  Now, 
solder to the center pin of the coax feed point.  If your coax feed point is a 
threaded section, crimp or solder on the appropriate fitting, then tighten the 
nut.  You will need to retune the antenna at this point.

       Fairly easy?  The results are incredible.  Increased gain, better 
symmetry, better side to side and front to back ratios.  This modification has 
been used here for over a year.  When I turn the beam to the side of a signal, 
the results blow away any commercial beam.  My nine element yagi can keep up 
with the commercial eleven element antennas.  Try it out.  I'm sure you will 
enjoy the change.


SUBJECT: Hidden Apartment HF Antenna
                           
 Bottom floor dwellers have some advantages over dwellers on other floors
 concerning HF antennas. Single unit condo & PUD dwellers fall into this
 area.

 Dwellers in the mid-floor(s) have it the toughest. And top floor dwellers
 have other advantages the first two don't.

 HF antennas are large and trying to hide one can be like trying to hide an
elephant. Many hams try different configurations, snap together antennas,
wires, and flag poles to conceal their antennas. Some work out, but most
get caught in the end.

 First, let's look at what you can and can't have. Most restrictive housing
areas have a long list of items you can't have. Clothlines, TV antennas, 
sheds, flags, BBQ grills, etc. And most of all, the all important HF
antenna. It has something to do with nice surroundings.

Make a list of these items and place them in a column on the left side of
the page. Next, list what you can have and list them in the center of
the page. Next, list the items that are readly available in the area of
your home. Such items are trees, gutters, vents, fences, etc. Look closely
and don't leave anything out.

A hidden HF antenna must be just that, hidden to the naked eye, even at
a point blank range.

Next, list the areas that you have a ready access to. If you can get to the
roof, write it down. How about the attic, basement, trees, etc, without much
notice by your neighbors. Most HF antennas are discovered not because of 
their design or placement, but rather a neighbor spies the ham installing
the antenna or at least doing something out of the ordinary.

EX: Creeping around on the roof, on a Saturday afternoon, is going to
draw attention. Flinging wires over trees is sure to draw some attention.

The big point here is not to install the antenna by looking like your
installing an antenna or doing something out of the ordinary.

There are some new designs out on the market such as PVC vent pipe antennas
for 2m. But for now we'll stick to HF. Most contracts for condo / PUD 
dwellers will allow bird feeders. And even apartment dwellers on the bottom
floor can benifit from this design.

I'll give a brief description here of the Bird Feeder antenna and discuss it
further in later postings. The Bird Feeder HF antenna is a vertical cage
wire antenna. A 'What?' you might ask. Imagine if you will eight flexible
wires, evenly spaced in a circular pattern, much like a ground plane. Draw
these wires vertically to form a wire 'tube' and connect them together with 
a ring at the top. Now imagine these wires inside a telescoping PVC mast.
Top that off with a bird feeder. Now, instead of a ground plane system with
radials you have to put in (the neighbors are watching), you have this 
'wire tube' constructed as a vertical dipole. At 10m, the Bird Feeder
antenna is a mere 17' tall when raised. What would the neighbors say? Or
for that matter the manager? 

       "I raise it up for the birds to get into and it keeps the squirels
out too. And look, I can take it out when I'm not using it or the weather
is bad. Boy, I really like watching the birds from my window. Did you know
that ..."

And then go on about some rare, but not unbelievable birds that frequent
the feeder. Buy a book on the subject with some pages tagged to show them
what you've seen so far. At worst, they'll think you're a flake and leave 
you alone. Next, go in and tune up 10m and catch some rare DX instead.

What do you have to actually put into the ground? Your coax and a PVC 
pipe to hold the mast up. Make it low in the ground and cap it so the
mower doesn't take it off. For the most part, you can leave it up. 

But do remember to put so seed in the feeder once in a while!

Bird Feeder Antenna II

Now, I admit, this design sounds a bit far fetched, but it works. The
vertical dipole, inside the PVC push-up, is invisable. It moves up and
down and can be removed without drawing attention to the fact that it 
contains an antenna. The flagpole design has some problems. Not all PUDs,
condos, or apartments allow flagpoles. They represent a permanent fixture.
Not all associations or managers are that patriotic. 

Although you can pack a good vertical in a flagpole, there is the problem 
of radials. You can run the vertical without radials, but that's another 
compromise.

The design for the Bird Feeder Antenna is very simple. Drawing it here is
another problem. ASCII Graphics really do not exist, so a description is
in order. 

You can build the vertical dipole without much trouble. The dipole consists
of up to 16 wire 1/4 wave elements. There are eight on each leg of the dipole.
You may use less, it's up to you. You know the bandwidth of a wire dipole and
you know the band spread on 10m. If you are a general or above, you will
want the extra wire elements to give you the bandwidth you need. 

First, let's look at the PVC tubular mast / bird feeder support. Most hardware
and home improvement center have PVC tubing. Like the steel counterparts,
the mast will be graduated (large at the bottom and smaller at the top.
I'm not going to recommend any sizes here as availability at your store is
going to dictate what sizes you will need. I will state the the top tube
should be 2" in diameter or better. You will need that size to support the
bird feeder and give the mast some strength. 
                      ___
                      | | <-------  Attach upper ring
                      | |           inside
                      | |
                      | |
                      |_| <-------  Attach next ring
                     |   |          inside
                     |   |
                     |   |
                     |   |
                     |___| <------- Attach feed ring inside
                    |     |<------- Attach feed ring inside
                    |     |
                    |     |
                    |     |
                    |_____| <------ Attach feed ring
                   |       |        inside
                   |       |
                   |       |
                   |       |
                   |       |
                   |_______| <------ Attach bottom ring inside

                   Figure one


The wire elements are attached in a ring format, evenly spaced, in a 360
degree pattern. Locations are noted in figure one. This allows the dipole
to be folded up when the mast is lowered. More than eight wires on each
leg of the dipole tends toward snags when raising and lowering. 

Dipole wire element sizes are calculated by 246 / f Mhz. But I recommend
shorter lengths if eight elements are used. 
                              
A BALUN can be inserted, but is not necessary. I feeder coax is needed from
the dipole feed to the base of the mast. A UHF bullet (female to female) to
attach your coax to.

How to lay the coax without looking like you're doing it:

The base piece for the bird feeder mast should be one size larger than
the bottom section of the mast. The mast should be able to side in a
snug fashion, but not too tight. Since you are installing a 'bird feeder',
you shouldn't have any problem explaining what you are doing. Simply
lay the bird feeder and mast right out in the open. Your nosey neighbors
will know exactly what you're doing (almost). The coax is the tough part.

Trenches are out of the question. Use a sidewalk edger (manual) and make a 
thin cut in the grass. If you have other obsticles, you will have to deal
with that when you come to it. The object is to do it when the neighbors are 
not going to notice. The thin cut in the lawn will not be seen and will
'heal' quickly. A tricky technique is to use a wheelblade on a handle. It
will look like you are using a measuring device. The cable can be laid into
the cut at dawn, when you are filling the bird feeder. Stepping on the cut 
lawn on the way back seals the cut. Now you're in business.

If you have any questions, drop me a line here.

Mobile Resonators as HF hidden antennas

Mobile resonators are small and easy to hide in comparison to a full size
HF antenna. They have there own faults as well. They require a good ground 
plane when not attched to a vehicle.

Experiments done here with mobile HF antennas have shown good results when
used as a base station antenna.

The most obvious and easiest install for a mobile HF antenna is the 
installation it is designed for. Mobile!

To take advantage of the 'no antennas' rule at most PUDs / condos / 
apartments, the designed mobile installation is best. In addition to this,
a coax can be run from the location of the mobile to the dwelling for indoor
operation. This provides a mobile/base operation with just the 
installation of the coax.

This concept also gives the operator the alibi needed if interference is
experienced by the neighbors. When they look out to see if you're in
the vehicle, nobody is there.

This design is good for bottom floor dwellers in apartments and any
'sneaky' mid-floor dwellers who can weasel a coax to their apartment.
Top floor apartment dwellers can hide the resonators in PVC pipe and
install the antenna on the roof of the building, if possible. It would
need to look like a vent pipe. I've seen some designs that even pop out
of drain pipes. This design may be a little too much for most amateurs.

Roof and tree mounting can be difficult at best. Installing these antennas
can be next to imposible for most dwellings. If you decide to install a
mobile resonators in other than the designed location, a good ground
plane is a must. This one factor may be your undoing in the stelth antenna
concept.

Painting the antenna to hide it can help. For night operation, flat black
or flat dark grey is recommended. Daytime ops require a background
blending scheme.

Further placement designs of this antenna is in works.



SUBJECT: Indoor antennas

HF Indoor Antennas:

       This can be fun. Imagine packing a 20m beam into an apartment! OW!
Imagine your XYL's reaction! OW! Imagine trying to turn it! LOOK OUT!

Here, I'll discuss some pratical indoor antennas that can be built by 
anyone. 

       Antennas include: 

               o HF foil antennas
               o VHF/UHF discones
               o Wire beams
               o Attic VHF/UHF rotatables
               o Tape antennas (TNX Jim, for the idea)
               o Telescoping VHF/UHF indoor beams.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       HF Foil Antennas

HF foil antennas are too weak in their physical construction for outside
use. Foil antennas are just what the title implies, foil. They are made
from ordinary aluminum foil, the kind used for heavy duty cooking, such as
roasting a turkey. 

This antenna goes in the attic of your home or condo. Apartment dwellers may 
have a time with this antenna depending on their location within their
complex. 

Materials needed are two to three rolls of aluminum foil, copper tape with
electrically conductive glue, a staple gun and staples, and coax with 
connector. 

By stapling the foil in a loop or dipole configuration on the attic rafters,
a simple antenna can be formed.


       ========================  ==========================
                               || balun if desired
                               |
                               |
                               | coax to shack




       ====================================================
       |                                                  |
       |                                                  |
       |                                                  |
       |                                                  |
       |                                                  |
       |                                                  |
       ========================  ==========================
                               || Balun if desired
                               |
                               | coax to shack


These two configurations are excellent when used with a tuner for the various
bands on amateur radio and SWL listening. They are cheap to install and can
be made into other configurations, by the amateur, if desired. A relay can
be installed to provide dual antenna configurations if needed. With this
device you can switch between a dipole and the loop for different
propagation conditions. Size and shape is dependent on the attic structure.

Indoor Antennas for HF & VHF/UHF

       I thought I would conclude the HF foil antenna here and move on to
another subject.  Connections from the foil to the coax or BALUN are via 
the copper tape.  There are copper tapes available on the market that are
used for EMI applications.  These tapes are expensive so if you can get
a piece of some of that tape from a buddy, it will work wonders for you.

       Otherwise, there is a trick with regular copper tape and the aluminum
foil that you can do.  It's a simple folding technique that insures a good
connection and yet requires no soldering except for the coax / BALUN
connection.

         ===========================================  Aluminum foil
              |-----------------------------------||
              | ====================================
              |------------------------------------------- Copper tape


       This folding method insures good contact on more than one surface.
One warning, do not leave air gaps as it will have a capacitive effect.

       Solder doesn't stick to Aluminum foil very well.  With enough heat,
you can solder anything.  Too bad the aluminum foil won't hold up at that
temperature and neither will the solder.

       You now can solder leads to the BALUN or solder the coax direct to
the copper tape. 

       For an indoor antenna, the foil antenna works rather well.  It can
out perform a vertical and pull in the weak ones with ease.  I think you'll
find it one of the most inexpensive antennas you can build yourself.

VHF/UHF Discones

       The discone antenna is a rather unique antenna for VHF and UHF.
The discone has no gain to speak of, yet can provide the user with a
range of ten times the design frequnecy for reception and transmitions.
This means that a discone designed at 140 MHz will work fine up to 1.4 Ghz.

       Hiding the discone outside may prove to be quite a feat.  Unlike
most antennas, the discone has a large skirt and is tall to boot.  It's
shape can draw attention.  If you can place the antenna outside, it will
give you excellent coverage over it's range.  Inside, the discone works well
minus the attenuation caused by the building it's in.

       There are many Discones available on the market if you choose not to 
build one.  Building one can be fun if you take the time and lay everything
out ahead of time. 

       There are a couple items I would like to point out about discones.

       1) The gap between the top-hat and the skirt is critical.

       2) The area under the skirt is a null to the antenna.

       Design parameters are easy.  

       o   The top-hat diameter is:   (0.1778 * (984/f MHz))*12
            EX: at 140 MHz -->  (0.1778 * (984/140))*12) = 15-in

       o   The diameter of the skirt, at the base, equals the length of
           the skirt elements.  This gives the user the closest impedance
           to 50-ohms.  Thus a skirt element length is:
                        (0.2675 * (984/f MHz))*12)
            EX: at 140 MHz -->  (0.2675 * (984/140))*12) = 22.56-in

       o   The gap is:  (0.007114 * (984/f MHz))*12)
            EX: at 140 MHz -->  (0.007114 * (984/140))*12) = 0.6-in

       A tin funnel works well as a starting base that brass skirt elements
can be soldered to. An SO-239 chasis connector can be fit into the cutoff
funnel end and the top-hat soldered to the center pin of the SO-239. 
Insullating spacers can be used to strengthen the gap.  I've used a brass
screw that was soldered between the center pin and the top-hat, but you can
use anything that you can solder.

       I have a motorized discone in works.  The stepping motor will be
incorporated to change the gap, to match the frequency, for best SWR.

Wire beams, indoor antennas

       For many of us, the antenna is the biggest problem for most hams.
Hams have to contend with neighbors and the XYL in order to pursue their
hobby.  An interesting HF and VHF idea I've seen used is the wire beam.

       The wire beam is unrolled and suspended in the direction required for
operation.  After the operation is complete, the wire beam is rolled up and
stored for the next time.  This type of beam is excellent for 10m and up to
1.25 m.  You may be able to set up a wire beam for frequencies below 10m
if you have the space to do so.  This antenna is also excellent for 
suspension in an attic.

       A simple model is shown below:


                   R             DE         D

    -----------||--|-------------|----------|--||-----------
               ||  |             |          |  ||  
               ||  |             |          |  ||   
               ||  |             |          |  ||      
    -----------||--|-------------|----------|--||-----------
               ||  |             |          |  ||      
               ||  |             |          |  ||    
               ||  |             |          |  ||  
    -----------||--|-------------|----------|--||-----------


       Aside from the elements, the rest of the configuration is non-
conductive.  Wooden dowel supports are outside the ends of the antenna
and string/rope can be used to support the elements.  The wooden dowels
are not required if suspension is taught.

       You can see that variations of this set-up can be incorporated
to accommodate most any frequency from 10 to 1.25 meters.

Attic VHF/UHF Rotatables

       In many instances, a ham can mount a VHF or UHF beam in the attic, on
a rotor.  They can achieve good results depending on their location and 
height off the ground.  Antenna size limitations are soley dependent on 
the available room in the attic that allows rotation of the beam without 
hindering it's rotation.  

       To check the attic for the maximum size antenna, the ham must first
enter the attic and measure the distances in the area planned for the set-up.
Trusses, electrical wiring, air conditioning / heating ducts, and the items
that are stored up there, can all play a factor in the actual antenna size.

       Finding your antenna with a pair of long johns dragging off the front
end is not a pretty sight. 

       After measuring the area in the attic, the antenna size and height off
the attic cross members can be accomplished.  Remember to allow for a base
to accommodate the rotor.  This too must be calculated into the system.

       Building a sleek system, to rotate two or three small beams, can be
dashed, when the system will not turn because of an oversight in the
measured values of the attic area in question.

       Turning radius is the important factor.  Each antenna forms a 
rectangle ABCD where the maximum distance is AD or BC.

              A------------------------------------B
               |                                  |
               |                                  |
           ----|----------------------------------|---- BOOM 
               |                                  |
               |                                  |
              C------------------------------------D
      
       For horizontal antennas, the turning radius is from the mounting
point to the tip (either side) of the longest element.  Multiple this figure
by two for the turning diameter of the antenna.

       For vertical antennas, the truss angle places the biggest problem
as the height from the boom to the tip of the refector (B or A).  In essence,
this will shorten your boom length or require a lower rotor mounting.

       These tips will help the Amateur avoid any problem before
getting the system in the attic.

Indoor telescoping beams

       One problem I have encountered from Hams living in apartments
is the space to place a VHF/UHF antenna.  This concerns operation of
the beam from a bedroom or porch.  In these cases, the Ham can not 
keep the antenna up and must remove the antenna after he or she 
finishes.

       Using telescoping elements can solve the problem.  Adding a two
or more section boom can further the portablilty fo the antenna making
it idea for field day, camping, or travel also.

       Dimensions for beams have been discussed earlier, so I won't
rehash them here.  The best portable and quickest for set-up is the
four element VHF antenna.  A two section quick clamp boom with mounting
flange for a camera tripod provides the base.  Each element contains
two telescoping units and a snap on fitting for attachment to the boom.

       The driven element has shorter telescoping units to preserve the
gamma match section as one piece.

       The antenna described here can be stored in a briefcase save the
camera tripod.  A VHF four element antenna can provide 9dB of gain for
the apartment dweller.


Tape antennas on sun-film windows:

       Using the tape loop, discussed earlier, I tested the antenna 
on two types of sun-film windows.  The first was a plastic film, often 
used in states such as Florida.  There was no significant pattern or 
gain change for the antenna.  The second type of film is the metal film
sun screen.  

       Results here were dramatic.  The pattern was severely disrupted as
well as SWR.  Be sure that your window films are not the metalic type if 
you plan to use indoor VHF/UHF antennas pointed out the window.  The metalic
film acts like a reflector to the signal.  Attenuation is a strong
factor concerning propagation.  Some plastic films appear metalic, but may 
not be.  


Tape antennas on screened windows:

       There are a three types of screen used as screening for windows. 
Plastic, fiber, and metal.  The first two show some attenuation of the
gain and pattern shape is similarly effected.  Basically, the addition 
of the screen frame effect the VHF spectrum greater than the UHF spectrum.
The screen frame size is near the size of VHF loops at frequency.

       Metal screen acts similar to metalic film with greater effect. Using
the top portion of the window is the best bet unless you don't have windows
like the type used in the Northern States.


SUBJECT: Log Periodic Dipole Array (LPDA) Design

This antenna was designed to operate from 13.8 MHz to 28.8 MHz. The antenna
was to cover the majority of the USAF MARS frequencies yet give the operator
a smaller log periodic than the commercial types, that had reasonable gain,
and was cost effective to build. All design formulas are taken from the
ARRL Antenna Manual. 

The antenna did not turn out as planned. The frequency range actually went
from 13.5 MHz to 29.5 MHz with SWR less than 1.8:1. Most SWR readings were
less than 1.5:1 across the band. The weight was a surprize also. I expected
100 pounds plus, but actually was under 63 pounds. 

SPECIFICATIONS:

     Boom: 22-ft, 3-in diameter, aluminum. 
     Number of Elements: 10
     Feed: Balanced
     BALUN: 4:1
     Weight: 62-lb
     Windload: near 9 sq.ft.
     Cost: About $200.00  Note: $150 for element insulators from HY-Gain.
                                $50 for misc. Tubing, boom, etc from 
                                 old antennas discarded by fellow hams,
                                 CBers, and field day.
     Time: 80-hrs, including install.
     Design Bandwidth: 13.8 MHz to 28.8 MHz
     Actual Bandwidth: 13.5 MHz to 29.5 MHz*, Highest my TS-430S would go.
     SWR MAX: 2.1:1
     SWR AVE: 1.4:1
     SWR LOW: 1.1:1, all taken on an MFJ-986 Differential-T Tuner/SWR/PWR
                     meter.
     EST GAIN: 6dB
     PWR Handling: Max Legal.
     Turning radius: same as 20m, 3 element Yagi
     Height off the ground: 35-ft minimum for best results 
                            (half wave at 14 MHz).

     ELEMENTS: (Half element lengths given and quantity)
               Note: Elements start at rear, longest first.
          
          L10: (492/13.8)/2 = 17.826-ft, quantity (2)
          L09: L10 * 0.9 =    16.043-ft, quantity (2)
          L08: L09 * 0.9 =    14.439-ft, quantity (2)
          L07: L08 * 0.9 =    12.995-ft, quantity (2)
          L06: L07 * 0.9 =    11.696-ft, quantity (2)
          L05: L06 * 0.9 =    10.526-ft, quantity (2)
          L04: L05 * 0.9 =     9.473-ft, qauntity (2)
          L03: L04 * 0.9 =     8.526-ft, quantity (2)
          L02: L03 * 0.9 =     7.673-ft, quantity (2)
          L01: L02 * 0.9 =     6.906-ft, quantity (2)

     ELEMENT SPACING: d(L10-L09) = 2*(.5(L10 - L09) cot(0.5 * apex angle))
                      The cot(0.5 * apex angle) = 2.
                      Thus: d(L10-L09) = (L10 - L09)*2
                      AND: d(L09-L08) = d(L10-L09) * 0.9

          d(L10-L09) = 3.566-ft
          d(L09-L08) = 3.209-ft
          d(L08-L07) = 2.888-ft
          d(L07-L06) = 2.599-ft
          d(L06-L05) = 2.339-ft
          d(L05-L04) = 2.105-ft
          d(L04-L03) = 1.895-ft
          d(L03-L02) = 1.706-ft
          d(L02-L01) = 1.535-ft

          0.5 * Apex angle: 26.565 
          cot(0.5 * apex angle): 2

Further detail is given in the ARRL Antenna Book under Log Periodic 
Dipole Array.

     Mounting: 1/4-in aluminum plate 10-in X 10-in
               (4) U-bolts to fit 3-in boom & mast
               1/2-in stainless steel bolt, spacers, lockwashers and nuts.


               ---------------------------------
               |                               |
               |        0              0       |
               |                               |
               |   0                       0   |
  -----------------|-----------------------|--------------------------
                   |            0          |
  -----------------|-----------------------|--------------------------
               |   0                       0   |
               |                               |
               |        0              0       |
               |                               |
               ---------------------------------

Bolt through center allows for pivoting of mast for element placement or repair.

Bolt configuration: Nut-L.Washer-Washer-Boom-Washer-Nut-Washer-Plate-Nut

Author's Notes:

I would first like to point out that I am an aluminum tubing pack rat. I
have had enough antenna parts to build a set of three element yagis for
our team on field day. Antenna tubing is fairly easy to come by if you
take the time to hunt it out. Many hams have tubing they are begging
to get rid of. There are hams that become SKs and the widow would be more
than happy to have you remove the antennas. There are beams that have
taken a dive during a wind storm or some that have been replaced because
of bad traps or corrosion. 

Much of the tubing I have is old. It can be restored to near new condition
with the wire wheel on a workbench grinder. This is probably the single
factor in which I was able to build this LPDA for under $200. Tubing is
expensive and prices vary from state to state. You can beat the system
by scrounging the tubing and reconditioning it.

The insulators can be procured from Telex/HY-GAIN at $15 each plus shipping.
Anything else can be procured from True Value or Ace hardware. Use Stainless
Steel hardware for everything you do. It's more expensive, but saves you
in the long run.

Back to the antenna...

I have watched the SWR readings and made notes of some of the propagation 
features of the antenna.

       The antenna's orginal design came from an older ARRL Antenna book
and the ARRL Handbook (87).  Evidently the design has been around since
dirt was invented.  

       To date, the SWR has had minor changes, some for the better and 
some worse.  There are no SWR readings above 1.8:1 and that is one feature
that has not changed.  Most of the other changes, in SWR, have had little
or no impact on the operation.  These changes may be the result of 
temperature changes as we have had readings in the forties here on occation.

       Front to Back notes:   The LPDA does not have the FB ratio that
a good yagi does towards the bottom of its range, but at high end, the LPDA
runs rings around the yagi.  

       Reception:  I've run yagis here for years and I can honestly
say that the LPDA 'hears' better due to the capture area of the antenna.

       Transmission:  With the low SWR across the HF Band, the LPDA works
well with or without a tuner.  Since I operate MARS Phone Patching for the
USAF, I have had numerous oportunities to query operators in South America
and the US.  All report that the signal is as good as the three element
monoband yagi I used before.  These operations take place above the 
20m band but below the 17m band.  When operations take place on
bands above 20m, the LPDA shows improvement in gain.

       Weathering:  The LPDA has been subjected to wind gusts of 50 mph 
plus with no ill effects. The LPDA is however a great haven for the
many birds we have here in Florida.  I believe they have a Bar & Grill
up there.  At one time, there were no less than 63 birds on the antenna.
After a quick carrier, there were zero.  Lucky for them, they do not
roost up there at night.  My phone patching output is the legal limit.

       Overall, the LPDA is the antenna for me.  The design was the 
hardest and even that can be done with a handheld calcuator and the
text in the handbook.  Previous postings provide the reader with
all the precut values needed for operation from 13.5 to 29.5.  The
22-ft boom is about the same size as a 20m monobander.  If you can
put up a 20m monoband yagi, then you can put up a LPDA.  No traps,
coils, or power limitation except the balun.


SUBJECT:  Tape Antennas

       Thanks goes to Jim Grubs for the idea.  

       Tape antennas seem to be an interesting way for apartment dwellers,
travelers, and others who need a quick antenna that can be used locally.

       For these experiments I used copper tape, 1/2-in wide for my tests.
       The following antenna types were tested:

               o       J-Pole
               o       Half-wave Dipole
               o       Full-wave Loop

       Tape antennas are not new.  I haven't seen much about tape antennas
with the exception of SAREX, used aboard the Shuttle.  Even this antenna
was quasi-tape-type. 

       In general, the tape antennas had some interesting propagation 
results due to the location of testing.  Locally, the antenna is excellent.
Within a mile or two, the antenna works as well as an outside antenna.  But,
due to the single floor building I work in these results may be better
if the antenna was located on a higher floor. 

       Propagation outside the local area was a function of which way the
window faces.  Generally, the antenna pattern was not omni, but rather an
attenuated omni pattern to the side where the building faces.

       Figure 1:  Signal levels in dBm.

 -21           -20        -17     1      12     16          18



 -21                                                              21
                       ------------                        
                       |          |                         
 -22                   |          |                                 23
                       |          |X                        
                       |          |                                 24
                       |          |                          
                       |          |                                 22
 -21                   ------------                          

                                                              19

-22          -19          -16         2        11         17



       These were the results of the Half-wave Dipole.  Input level was 
30dBm, CW, at 145 MHz.  I hope FIDO didn't screw up the picture.  The 
distance from the building was taken at 100 meters using an EMC testing
dipole and an HP-8562 spectrum analyzer.  Coax was a 72" section of 
Adams-Russell 1999-0072 with precision 'N' connectors.

       All readings were taken at ground level (standing there normally).
The transmitter was placed in a window at 4-ft off the ground at the feed.

       Further results will be posted after I finish testing a few other designs.


SUBJECT:  Tower modifications for redistributing antenna windloads.

       Many Amateur Radio Operators are restricted to a maximum size 
antenna because of the limitations their towers have.  The windload 
rating can cut a dream antenna in half because the tower is rated for 
something about the size of a ten meter beam.  But, that's all you can 
afford so you take your lumps and settle for something less than you 
wanted.  I had that problem and decided to do something about it.

       o       I could purchase a larger tower (BTW I finally had one
               given to me.  It's still in the back yard).

       o       Find a way to get the weight off the tower and on the 
               ground (Put the dynimite away!).

       Looking at the lastest ads, then looking in my wallet, then at
my wife and kids, then again at my 9-in triangular crank up and 22-ft
beam, then back at my wife, I decided to to the latter of the two (gulp).

       How in the world was I going to relieve the weight from the 
tower and still keep my beam up at the same height?  That 9-in trangular 
crank-up wasn't going to cut it in heavy winds.  It was an accident
waiting to happen.  At that point I was working on my "I need a better
tower" speech to my wife and remembered some of my statics and dynamics 
from college.  

       I checked on a couple of examples in the book and found that my
idea would work.  The solution?  A drive shaft/bearing modification. 
With the rotor moved to base of the tower and a vertical bearing set
situated just above the rotor.  The rotor would have no downward 
thrust upon it.  All it would have to do is turn the shaft.  The bearings
turned out to be easier then planned.  Edmond Scientific Catalog
had Lazy-Susan bearing sets for sale.  I purchased the 1000-lb table
type for about $6.50 each.  After packing them in grease, I was ready to
install them.  The drive shaft can be a pair of push-up masts for crank-up 
towers or water pipe for fixed towers.  The shaft is guyed within the tower
by PVC tubing. Each tube is about 2-3 feet in length and I used three
per forty feet.  The shaft pokes out the top for antenna mounting.  In
my case, two sections of the push-up mast poked out the top allowing
me to work and mount a few VHF/UHF antennas. 

       Here's the basic set-up:



              =================== 2m beam
                       ||
                       ||
     ====================================== HF beam
                       ||
                       ||
                      |||| - PVC tubing over shaft inside tower
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      ||||
                      |BB| - Bearing
                      ||||
                      |RR| - Rotor location
               -------|--|--------


       o The rotor only turns the shaft - no weight on the rotor.
       o The vertical weight is transformed to the bearing near the bottom.
       o The weight of the antennas are on the shaft instead of the tower.
       o The towers sole purpose is to guy the shaft and the forces
         directed to the tower are distributed along the tower's length.


       This system has been working here for over two years.

SUBJECT:  Towers, part two

    Towers are an interesting subject where antennas are concerned. We
have the commercial types which can cost you a bundle.  Then there
are the cheap-o second (fifth) hand towers older than most hams, that
we buy which, at best, offer a shakey support if not reworked properly.

    Antenna supports come in various flavors from trees, to push-up masts,
to full blown, motorized, telescoping, hundred footers capable of leaping
tall buildings in a single bound.  All are good depending on what you use
them for.  A tower rated for 10 sq.ft windload should be adhered to order
to save your equipment.  An antenna and rotor system mounted on top of a 
a tower can put a heavy torque (twisting action) on the tower.  Some
towers and masts can not take that torque and they crumble.  There are
ways to by-pass that problem and they will be discussed later.

    Guy lines can be a pain in the butt also.  Metal guys can play havoc
with various bands and ropes stretch.  These will be looked into also.

    I reposted my first tower article based on some problems I have had
here.  I won't be able to cover everything but I have a few friends that 
have some interesting towers that I will share with you.  

    AREAS TO BE COVERED:

    o         Trees
    o         Wooden towers
    o         Push-up masts
    o         Tubular towers
    o         Small Steel Crank-ups (7 & 9-in tri-angulars)
    o         Rohns
    o         Commercial Grade
    o         Monster Crank-ups
    o         Roof mounts
    o         Tilt-overs
    o         Trouble spots


NOTE:==>  I will be on vacation from June 6 to June 19.  In this period,
Mark Huff will be in charge of the echo.  If he wishes to post technical
articles he may.  While I'm gone, he wears the moderator hat, but

              "I'LL BE BACK." ;-)

SUBJECT:  Tower Series, part 3

    TREES:  Trees have been used as antenna supports for years. There
are some problems though.  Trees grow, they have leaves or needles, 
they sway and are probably the greatest target for lightning than any
man made device.  

    I have used trees for an antenna support many times.  In my CB days, 
I cut the top off an oak tree in Connecticut, thrirty-five feet up, and
used chimney straps to hold a mast for a 'Starduster' quarter wave
antenna.

    Here in Florida, I use a palm and a sycamore for a DX-A (40, 80, 
& 160) and the same sycamore and a small maple for my 40 IVee.  Both 
are fed from my tower. I have a pulley system to raise the antenna I 
need for specific operations.


                                   * sycamore


                                    



    -----------------------------------------
    |                                       |
    |                                       |
    |                                       |
    |                                       |X tower
    |                                       |
    |--------------------|                  |
                         |                  |
                         |------------------|
         * palm                                
                                                * maple
    <--------North

    Trees must be cared for when attaching support lines.  Too tight and
you can strangle the branch or worse, the tree.  Never use a dead tree.
They're an accident in the making. 

    Beams in trees are not a good idea.  Getting them up there is a
pain in the butt to say the least save a crane.  Constant upward growth
interfers with the pattern and the ability to turn them thus requiring
pruning.  Pray you don't have a problem like bad SWR, bent elements,
or a water soaked trap.

    I would suggest keeping trees for verticals or tie off points.

    ------------------------------------------------------------------

    WOODEN TOWERS:  These can be interesting.  They are heavy, can rot,
and don't stand much for the weather.  Wooden towers are subject to
many enemies such as bugs, birds, and rain.  The sun can dry on out in 
two seasons.  A wooden tower creaking in a 50 mph storm can give an
amateur nightmares.  They are expensive to build with todays pricing  
on wood.  

    Simple fold-over wooden towers such as a flagpole design, can be done
if the materials are availble at a resonable price.


                        ||
                        ||
                        ||
                        ||
                        ||
                        ||
                        ||
                        ||
                      ||||||<--- pivot point
                      ||||||
                      ||||||
                      ||||||<--- Locking pin (bolt)
                      ||  ||
                      ||  ||

    This set up can be done in a day with the right materials.  The
main pole can be pulled up with a pick-up or car.  A stop bar is 
recommended so you don't pull the main section over with the vehicle.
Place the stop bar just above the locking pin and bolt it into the
main section but not the supports.  It also can be cranked up with
a boat winch from the bottom.

SUBJECT: Tower Series, part 4

    PUSH_UP MASTS:  This is an inexpensive way to raise small HF beams, 
HF verticals and HF wire antennas.  It is also a good support for VHF 
and UHF beams and omnis.  The best push-up mast I've found for the money
is the mast sold by Radio Shack.  They may sell different brands of masts
around the country, but the ones in Florida are excellent.  The masts
come with guy tie-off points at each section, cotter pin holes (change
the pins out for bolts) and hand operated locking screws.  

    Some of the good points are cost, ease of installation, easy care,
and easy transport.  They also make good tower drive-shafts. 

    Some bad points, they can fold over in a storm with a beam on board,
they are good lightning rods, once kinked, they're not worth a plug nickel.

    Overall, the push-up mast has probably made it to more field days than
any other type of transported support in the history of ham radio.  It's
a good support that will last many years and serve the amateur well.

    -------------------------------------------------------------

    TUBULAR TOWERS:  You have seen these advertised in many Amateur
Radio magazines.  They are expensive, especially when a motor drive is
added.  I know of only one person that owns one of these types and
he enjoys it.  The tower has some good points as related to me.  It's
eye appealing to the neighbors, easy to operate, and good for storing
the antenna at low heights when not used.  It does however require some
maintenance and TLC.  You can't neglect them or they'll pay you back in
spades.


SUBJECT: Towers, part 5

    SMALL STEEL CRANK-UPS:  I own one of these babys.  The tower has
two sections, each nineteen feet six inches. The base section is  
nine inch triangular, while the upper section is seven inch triangular.
The upper section is rasied and lowered with a small boat winch.

    The tower is a lay-over design, hinged at the bottom.  Since I have 
another 18 foot, 15 inch triangular tower beside it that is used as a 
work stand, I have a second boat winch and pulley system to lay the 
crank-up over on it's side.

    These towers are stronger than they appear and can raise a large
beam to a height of 35 feet safely.  To add to that strength, a
push-up mast drive-shaft configuration was added to the tower, 
transforming the weight of the antenna to the base.  The rotor is located
beneath the tower, as well as a set of vertical bearings (1000-lb
lazy susan bearings), in a two foot high steel stand.  There is no
weight on the rotor. 

    There are other configurations to consider.  Small Steel crank-ups
would be excellent for VHF/UHF antennas with the rotor mount on top
of the tower.  They are excellent supports for wire antennas and 
verticals. 

    Some of the draw-backs are:

    o They are made from steel and are heavy.
    o They rust.
    o They require yearly refurbs.

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    ROHNS:  These are probably the most common type of antenna tower
used by hams today for QTH set-ups.  The ROHN name is actually a company
which to my surprize, many hams didn't know.  I got a good laugh when a
third ham told me it was a type of antenna and not a company.  Oh well.

    The Rohn tower sections are easy to install but have some draw-backs.
They should be greased where they meet.  Stainless bolts and nuts are a 
must.  And the tower needs guying past two sections with anything larger
than a VHF beam. 

    A good base is needed for proper support as in any tower and a lay-over
hinge is recommended.  Two adults can set-up a four section hinged tower 
in minutes (KB4DCZ & KB4YLY) with guy wires.

    The Rohn tower is excellent for shaft-drives as the push-up mast can be 
replaced with 2-in standard pipe.  The Rohn sections come various flavors
and can meet most hams needs.  Many of these sections can be purchased
at local hamfests or you can buy new.

    Rohn is the way to go for a first tower.

    --------------------------------------------------------------

SUBJECT: Towers, part 6

Commercial grade:  There is only one bad point to these type towers
and that is the cost of a new one.  If you can get a commercial grade
tower for your ham antennas at a cheap price, by all means get it.

     Many of the Ham towers available on the market today are commercial
grade also.  And the price reflects it.  They are built to last.  The
base is the most important part of the tower.  With a commercial grade
tower, be sure to follow all base construction designs to the letter
and use the proper hardware. 

    -----------------------------------------------------------

Monster Crank-ups:  The monster crank-up is a ham's dream.  Many come
with motors to do all the work for you.  I talking about the 80, 100, and
120-ft plus models.  Awsome is the only word I can think off that 
fits these towers.  Many are self-supporting and can handle beams that
would make you drool.  For ten grand you can have a 90 footer with motor
control, a top notch rotor, and a killer antenna to boot.  If you
have the money, go for it.

    Like all crank-ups, they require maintenance.  TLC is the biggest
problem with this type of tower.  Cables need to be looked at weekly,
rollers and pulleys need to be looked over and greased, and if you have
a motor on it, that too needs to be kept up.  The joys of one are
outstanding in DX reports and the ability to lower the antenna during
bad weather.

    ---------------------------------------------------------------

SUBJECT: Towers, part 7

    Roof Mounts:  There are a few commercial roof mounts available to
the amateur.  Roof mounts have a few advantages over towers.  They
are cheaper, they start from 15 to 30 feet off the ground, and the
access is easy as walking on the roof.

    The disadvantages are the holes in the roof, loading, and 
lightning protection. 

    Roof mounting is easy to install verses a tower.  Your antenna 
weight must be restricted in accordance to your home's roof.  BEWARE, 
do not overload the roof!  The results are very expensive when the 
roof mount, antenna, and rotor take a dive in a storm.

    Be sure to properly ground a roof mount with the most direct path 
possible and be sure to properly waterproof the mounting holes in the 
roof.
    ---------------------------------------------------------

    Tiltovers:  This type of tower is becoming rare, but provides the
amateur with the most convience of all the towers given the room to
tilt one over.  The tower can bring the antenna to you rather than
climbing the tower or trying to perform on a ladder with a crank-up
in the down position.

    I only know a couple of hams with tiltovers and I can say they
operate quite well with little maintenance.

SUBJECT: Towers, part 8 

    Trouble Spots:  Towers can present many problems to the amateur 
radio operator.  There are some points to consider when installing a tower
that can save you trouble later.

    Site location is probably the single most important factor for a tower.
The base must be analyzed completely.  Soil conditions, ground water level,
seepage, etc must be taken into account.  I mistake I made was placing my
tower next to the house.  In Florida, most homes have an overhang instead 
of gutters.  The rain ran off the roof and ate the ground around my 
tower.  I discover that the tower had tilted almost 15 degrees.  While the
earth was still moist, I used my pick-up to straighten the tower and then 
tied it off.  After the ground dried, I poured in another 500-lb of
concrete to enforce the base.  It's been standing on it's own now for
five years.

    A friend of mine had a beautiful tilt over tower.  It worked well until
the sapplings his wife planted grew up into full trees.  He did not have
to tilt the tower over for nearly five years, but when he had too, it was
a no-go situation.  The trees blocked the tower.  Much to his wife's dismay,
the trees were removed.

    Power lines are a hazzard.  Calculate the worst case event, a tower
crashing to the ground, and look at what it may strike.

    Sometimes the placement of the tower is dictated by surroundings and
pitfalls can not be avoided.  The current tower I am running is a crank-up
base tiltover tower.  By itself the tower tilts over nicely, but with an
antenna, my neighbors fence restricts how far it can go.

    Placement of a ground rod in the center of the base foundation, will 
save a lot of time and provide a good ground for the tower and antennas.

    A protective locking cage around the base will keep the kids off the
tower and save you from a law suit.

    Drive shafts save much wear and tear on a tower.  Do not overload
the tower with more than it can handle, especially if your rotor is
located on the top.

    Never climb a crank-up.

    Always use a safety belt when climbing.


SUBJECT: VHF & UHF Hidden antennas for PUDs/Condos/Apartments

These antennas are much easier to hide because of their size. 
I'll get into some high level design concepts here and expound on
them later.

I'll be discussing the following antennas:

               o       Stealth Verticals
               o       Stealth Beams
               o       Indoor Antennas
               o       Indoor/Outdoor use of Mobile Antennas
               o       Field Day / Portable

---------------------------------------------------------------

Stealth Verticals:

This type of VHF / UHF antenna is very popular with amateurs. The are
easy to build and install. Many commercial antennas are available, but
for the dollar, an amateur can build a superior VHF or UHF antenna for
the base or mobile use. For the PUD/Condo/Apartment user, even a simple
vertical can be a major problem to install. Location in an apartment may
be one of the biggest problems facing an amateur when antennas are
prohibited.

There are large multi-element verticals on the market such as Comet and 
Diamond. The size of these antennas makes these a bit more difficult to
install. There are other homebrew antennas that can be installed however.
These antennas will be discussed here.


                       J-Pole

The J-Pole is an exceptionally good antenna and easy to build if the
directions in the ARRL handbook are followed correctly. One modification
I recomend for the J-Pole is to solder the tuning connections after the
SWR is set. This allows for 'no maintenance' on the J-pole and no 
surprizes with SWR changes due to corrosion.


            1/4, 1/2, 3/4 wave ground planes

These ground planes offer unity, 2dB, and 3dB respecfully. These antennas
do not need coils or tuning circuits to accomplish their action. 


                      Discones

This antenna can be homebrewed or bought commercially. The discone is an
excellent antenna, but has it's drawbacks in hiding. The antenna has unity
gain and can be used on multiple bands.


                   Vertical Dipole

This antenna can be put together in various configurations with various 
matching devices. The dipole is a halfwave.


                   Full Wave Loop

This antenna can be configured to vertical polarization. It is not omni, but
exhibits good gain in a bidirectional pattern.


There are many more antennas that exist. Some are larger, some don't have
the bandwidth, and still others require coils & capacitors to make them
work. The aboved mentioned antennas are easy to homebrew and make for 
good antennas that can be used by PUD / Condo / Apartment dwellers. All
the above antennas are in the ARRL antenna book. The design and 
construction of these antennas is easy if the directions are followed in the
book. What I intend to accomplish here is placing the antennas such that
they go unseen by all.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

                  INSTALLATION OUTSIDE

Let's look at the first one: The J-Pole. Gain wise, this antenna does not
have a lot of gain on transmit, but the antenna has an easy 3dB gain on
receive. If you make your J-Pole from brass rod or like material, placement
of the antenna should be accomplished fairly easy. You should remember not
to install the antenna near other metal objects or fixtures. Give it about
three feet of room from conducting surfaces. 

The best hidden J-Pole I've seen was painted to match the chimney brick work.
Everything that went with the antenna was matched to the chimney. The coax
was painted to match not only the chimney, but the roof and then the paint
color on the side of this PUD home. The J-Pole was bent to the contours of 
the brickwork and masonery. The amateur installed the antenna under the cover
of cleaning and repairing the chimney. His plan worked well.

Another J-Pole I've (almost) seen was mounted to side of a tree at thirty
feet. It too was painted to match the bark of the tree.

I designed and built a J-Pole for a friend that looked and matched the
foliage of a white pine. I used artificial plastic Christmas tree elements 
to match a branch on the pine tree. If you didn't see where it was installed,
you couldn't tell it from the rest of the tree. 

Another design was mounted to a swing out arm which was installed under
a window sill at thirty feet. The Ham painted the J-Pole to match the
natural wood finish on the condo. At night, he would swing the J-Pole
out from the window and talk on the local repeaters. The dark color of
the J-Pole, helped the amateur, by blending the antenna against the
night sky.

INSTALLATION OUTSIDE

Next, I'll discuss the 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 wave ground planes. These antennas have
various gains, but all have one thing in common. Each antenna requires no
tuning or matching elements. Like the 1/4 wave, the 1/2 and 3/4 wave antennas
are built in the same manor except the vertical element is either 1/2 or
3/4 wave. The Quarter wave 2m antenna can be cut so that it is a 3/4 antenna
on the 440-450 MHz band. Thus, a dual band antenna. A 1/4 wave on 222-225 MHz
can be cut for a half wave on 440-450 MHz, another dual bander. These dual
band antennas will not have the complete range over the secondary band, but
will give a piece of it at low SWR.

Each antenna will cover the entire primary band it was cut for. I use brass
rod for my ground planes. They do not rust and solder easy with a good 
soldering iron. 

Hiding these antenna takes a little more foresight. The ground plane shape
tends to make the posibilities of a good hiding spot a bit less. But the
thin material tends good for trees. They can be hidden as part of the tree
with plastic leaves and a blending color paint job. Their size is a good
contributing factor. UHF vertical ground planes (VGP) tend to hide themselves.
A UHF 1/4 wave VGP is a mere 9 inches from the base of the ground plane to 
the tip of the vertical element. I wouldn't leave them out in the open, but 
little will have to be done to hide one of these UHF VGPs.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Discones have been used outside in restricted areas. Hiding one can present
a problem because of the dimentions. I would suggest using these antennas
indoors and will discuss them later.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
 
The Vertical Dipole is an easy antenna to hide. The shape is easy to bend
in with surrounding objects and matching can be accomplished by many means
as listed in the ARRL antenna handbook. My favorite is the gamma match.
I would recommend this for the 2m and 1.25m antennas. At this point, I must
say the gamma match works fine, but at UHF frequencies, a Tee match is
better. The gamma tend to loose the bandwidth required up on the 440-450 MHz
band.

It can be hidden in the same manner as the J-Pole.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The Full Wave Loop is another favorite. Although this antenna has the best
gain of the previously mentioned antennas, it can present a problem in band
width and placement. When palced against a building, the SWR goes up.
Cutting and tuning a loop to a band may also present some problems. The 
bandwidth of a loop may not cover all the frequencies desired if operating
the repeaters.

The circular loop is the best, followed by the square loop. Triangular loops
work well also. The area enclosed by the loop is the main facter in
approaching the 50 ohm impeadance required by amateur radio gear today.
Please keep that in mind. Geometric shapes in a natural setting tend to
'stick out' to the human eye. Hiding the antenna will require a crafty
plan on the part of the amateur. The bidirectional pattern from the loop
my hinder the placement if a specific direction is required. Remember
the chimney? Good place to start.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Enough for now. Next, I will discuss the VHF/UHF hidden beam antenna.
I have not discussed 6m, 33cm, or 23cm antennas, but the same application holds.

Here's some info on 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 wave lengths for the bands 6m, 2m,
1.25m, 70cm, 33cm, & 23cm to give you an idea on the size of the antennas
you will be dealing with. The formula use does not always relfect the exact
length of the antennas involed, but is to be used for sizing only.

       1/4     1/2     3/4         f
------------------------------------------
 6m  | 4.73'   9.46'   14.19' @   52.0 MHz
 2m  | 1.68'   3.37'   5.05'  @  146.0 MHz
1.25m| 1.1'    2.2'    3.3'   @  223.5 MHz 
70cm | 0.55'   1.1'    1.65'  @  445.0 MHz
33cm | 0.27'   0.54'   0.806' @  915.0 MHz
23cm | 0.194'  0.387'  0.581' @ 1270.0 MHz


SUBJECT: VHF/UHF stealth beam antennas

Let's look at a couple of points here first. From my last posting, the
relative sizes of the different antennas show that hiding a 6m antenna
can be a lot more difficult than hiding a 70cm antenna.

6m beams can be large and hard to explain as a TV antenna. Many PUDs/Condos/
Apartments do not permit TV antennas at all. 

For places that allow TV antennas, I have some tricks that you can do inorder
to play on the bands. These tricks will be discussed later.

Beams are a necessity in some locations. The gain achieved on a beam can mean
the difference between getting in the repeater, digi-node, making a simplex
or SSB contact. The easiest installation would be in an attic, but most
hams can figure that out.

Unless you only require a fixed position, a beam will require a rotor to 
fully utilize the quality the a beam can provide. Beams are generally single
band antennas when used above 10m. I would recommend a log periodic for use
on the VHF/UHF frequencies to provide the ham with multi-band operations.

There are some problem that must be addressed when working with beams.
First, different polarities are required for different operations. FM and
packet use vertical while SSB and CW require horizontal. Space communications
requires a combination of the two or circular polarization. 

Second, hiding a beam and it's associated support equipment can be a pain in
the butt when the QTH says no antennas. Anything that must rotate is going
to draw attention. Fixed beams can be hidden. Rotating beams are going to
require a bit more. 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Remember that size plays a big point when stealth is employed. I'll look
at the 2m beam for the examples here and the relation can be applied to
the other bands.

       Horizontal operation: This is the easiest beam to hide. Be sure you
know all the rules of your association or apartment before attempting to
install a beam. The beam, because of it's polarity, is flat. It can be
passed off as a TV antenna for a specific channel. Most people wouldn't
know the difference. The outside installation can be accomplished with
the basic TV installation. By adding a second rotor, such as an elevation 
rotor, both vertical and horizontal polarization can be accomplished.
I recommend the vertical operation for night time use only. It eliminates
the question; "Why is your TV antenna like that?"

       Stealth operation:
You may not be able to put up a TV antenna and must totally hide the beam.
Attics are an easy hiding place. Upper rooms are good too. Telescoping 
elements for portable operation work well. I would like to relate some
unique installations to overcome the no antenna rules.

       This Amateur had a bad time trying to locate any antenna at
his dwelling. He lives in an apartment complex. His apartment is on the
inside, second floor, of a four story apartment building that is shaped
into a large rectangle.

               -----------------------------------------
               |                                       |
               |                                       |
               |      ---------------------------      |
               |      |                         |      |
               |      |                         |      |
               |      |                         |      |
               |      |                         |      |
               |      ---------------------------      |
               |                  X                    |
               |                                       |
               -----------------------------------------

The X indicates where the apartment is located. There is an apartment on
the outside of his. Like I mentioned, he was on the second of four floors.
No antennas are allowed outside the apartment. He had a couple of options.
One, he could move, but funds weren't there. Two, he could use his noodle
to figure out how to beat the system.

This ham enjoys UHF operations from 440-450. He also works 2m packet from 
time to time. Most people would stick to stamp collecting at this point.
 
There are additional problems facing this ham. Windows on the upper floors
would expose him to masts, cables and devices to raise or lower his antennas.
On top of that, the roof of the building is steeply sloped. Mounting anything
up there, let alone getting up there was a problem. 

    A steeply sloped roof means a large attic. The ham in question is an 
    electrician, by trade, and was employed by the owners of the building to
    rewire part of the top floor hallway lighting. The job was to take place 
    in a weeks time. It was all the time he required to assemble a set of
    beams, with rotor control. The coax and control cables were to be run
    down next to the electrical conduit into his apartment. He purchased
    two beams, a 2m and a 70cm, to facilitate his requirements. A TV rotor
    was employed to rotate the set and the antennas were mounted side by side.
    The 2m beam was a simple four element model and the 70cm model was an
    eleven element model. In addition to the beams, he also installed two
    omni directional antennas. The total set was mounted to a short mast and
    base. It took a mere two hours to assemble the system and one hour extra
    to run the cables. He was in business. He mounted the system over a 
    stairwell and service closet. He also mounted the base over a foam pad to
    inhibit the rotor noise. This ham is in the Central Florida area. He is
    a Technician Class operator and has been operating this way for over
    three years now.


This is an example of fixed beam installation:

    This ham lives in a condo complex south of a large city. No antennas are
    allowed. His unit is on the second floor of a two floor unit. This ham
    enjoys 2m SSB. Since he owns the condo, this ham was able to modify the
    roof of his screened in porch to accommodate a unique masting system that
    can be raised and lowered from inside the porch. He employed a three 
    section mast made from aluminum tubing. The eleven element 2m beam was
    fitted with rubber feet under all the elements and the boom. After that,
    the beam was painted a dark flat grey to blend in with the night sky, even
    under full moon conditions. The upper mast sections were also painted 
    in the same manner. During the daylight hours, the beam was lowered 
    against the aluminum roof and was well out of sight from the neighbors.
    At night, the beam was raised enough to clear the top of his roof.

    Raising the antenna mast took a bit of planning. The roof of the porch
    was 7'6" above the deck. A pulley system, similar to a patio umbrella
    device was employed to raise the mast sections. The mast was placed in the
    center of the roof and a table supported the base. A plastic vine type 
    plant was used to disguise the bottom section along with a planter to
    finish off the stealth set-up. The coax was run to the planter and then
    connected to another coax when it was to be used. The ham in question
    has been operating this way for a few years with good success. 

The installation of a beam requires thought and planning. I can not give
plans for every installation. This is mostly dependent on the amateur. But
these ideas may give you some ideas on how to beat the rules and enjoy
your hobby.

SUBJECT:  Vertical Beams on VHF and the effect of metal masts
          on propagation patterns, gain, and bandwidth (part one).


       I have complied some information on vertical beams used in VHF
communications.  Yagis were used for this test.  This information was 
taken from studies done at the Kennedy Space Center from 1982 thru 1988 
and from 1990 thru 1991.  Also, the studies include information gathered
here, at my QTH, field day 89, 90, & 91, and other amateur stations from
1987 thru 1991.

       These studies include the effects of metal support masts to the
boom of the beam, past the boom of the beam, and short of the boom by
a wave length with a non-conductive support, towers near the antenna,
VHF beams above horizontal antennas, below horizontal antennas, side 
mounted beams, and the effects of metal guys encompassing the beams.

       In part one of this series, the discussion will cover the first 
three studies.

*** VHF beam antennas and metal support masts ***

  Metal masting past the beam: (metal mast at earth ground)

  Figure one->                  || <--  Metal Mast  
                                || 
                                || 
                                || 
               |    |    |    | || |   |   |   |   |
               |    |    |    | || |   |   |   |   |
               |----|----|----|-[]-|---|---|---|---| <-- VHF Yagi
               |    |    |    | || |   |   |   |   |
               |    |    |    | || |   |   |   |   |
               R    DE   D1   D2|| D3  D4  D5  D6  D7
                                ||
                                ||

       Testing: Yagi antenna pattern and gain over a vertical 
                dipole at the same frequency. 

  Figure two->
               R                                   D7
               |    |    |    |    |   |   |   |   |
               |    |    |    |    |   |   |   |   |
               |----|----|----|-[]-|---|---|---|---| <-- VHF Yagi
               |    |    |    | || |   |   |   |   |
               |    |    |    | || |   |   |   |   |
                                ||
                                ||
                                || <-- Metal Mast at earth ground  


       Testing: Same as in Figure one.

  Figure three->
               R                                   D7
               |    |    |    |    |   |   |   |   |
               |    |    |    |    |   |   |   |   |
               |----|----|----|-[]-|---|---|---|---| <-- VHF Yagi
               |    |    |    | !! |   |   |   |   |
               |    |    |    | !! |   |   |   |   |
                                !!
                                !!
                                !!
                                !! <-- Non-conductive mast (PVC)
                                !!
                                !!
                                !!
                                !!
                                ||
                                || <-- Metal Mast at earth ground
                              
       Testing: Same as in Figure one.


  Results of testing from test set-ups in figures one, two, and three:

       1) Figure one results:  
               o Pattern is mis-shaped, forward lobe is divided and
                 severely distorted.  Side lobes are enhanced, back 
                 lobe is enhanced, but contains three distinctive lobes.

               o Gain over a vertical dipole is 2dB at the lowest central
                 point of the forward lobes, gain is 3.7dB at the highest
                 points of the forward lobes which are at 59 and 124 
                 degrees respectfully from a 90 degree center lobe 
                 location.  Best gain is to the back center lob at 177
                 degrees, 5.3 dB.

       2) Figure two results:
               o Pattern appears near normal with some distortion to the
                 forward lobe. 

               o Gain over a vertical dipole is 10.2dB at the peak of the 
                 central forward lobe which is located at 93 degrees.

       3) Figure three results:
               o Pattern shows near typical to standard patterns with better
                 shaping than both previous tests.

               o Gain over a vertical dipole is 10.9dB at the peak of the 
                 central forward lobe which is located at 89.5 degrees.


       In each case, the same dipoles, coax, signal, and yagi were used for 
testing purposes.  The distance between the dipole and yagi was 100-ft.
Height off the ground was 20-ft to the antenna feed.  Signal was 10mW at
146 MHz CW.

       Clearly, this test shows that mounting your yagi mid-mast is not
an effective way to achieve the desired results of the yagi.  Mounting
the beam on top of the mast achieves near commercial results while
the insulated mast achieves the best results for performance from the
antenna.  The discussion will continue, in part two, to elaborate on the
effects of figure two vs figure three with a grounding wire.

       This test was conducted at the Kennedy Space Center, Spring of 91
using the KB4YLY gamma modification to the yagi and dipoles.  All test
equipment used was by Hewlett-Packard.

       These tests were incorporated into antennas and antenna systems
at the Kennedy Space Center and are presented here for public information.

SUBJECT: Vertical Beams on VHF and the effect of metal masts on 
propagation patterns, gain, and bandwidth (part two).

               TOWERS AND THEIR EFFECT ON VHF BEAMS

       Towers have a dramatic effect on VHF beam patterns.  Many 
hams mount their VHF beams on separate masts or towers next to their 
main tower.  Many hams also mount their VHF beams on arms extending
from the tower.  

       The tower poses an eclipsing effect on the VHF beam's pattern.
The pattern is attenuated sharply by the tower, especially when the 
beam is pointed at the tower.  This is fairly obvious.  The 
attenuation is greater the closer the beam is placed to the tower. 

       This does not cover end mounted beams which actually use the 
tower or mast in their pattern.  When a VHF beam is placed to the 
side of a tower, the area of the beam's forward lobe must be taken
into consideration.

       figure one:
                           p                 p
                            p               p
                             p             p
                              p     T     p
                               p  T   T  p
                                p       p
                                 p     p
                                  p   p
                                    X


       In this example, the T's represent the tower, the X 
represents the beam, and the p's represent the edges of the 
forward lobe where the left p's are the right side and the 
right p's are the left side of the lobe.  The area between 
the edges, including the tower, is the high attenuation area.  
The angle formed by these edges is 60 degrees for this example.

       Figure two:
                          p    
                           p
                            p
                             p     T
                              p  T   T
                               P
                                p
                                 p
                                \ p
              p p p p p p p p p p pX  
                                     \

       In this figure, the designators are the same as figure 
one.  The beam's forward lobe is 60 degrees at the 3 dB points 
for this example. The minimum angle of the beam antenna, to 
directly pointing to the tower, is the same as the 3 dB point 
beam width or 60 degrees.  This means that the beam has a 120 
degree angle, 60 degrees either side of the tower in relation 
to the beam, that is an attenuation or eclipse zone.  
                                 
       It can be seen that the farther away the beam is from 
the tower the smaller the angle of attenuation is in relation 
to the beam.  The ascii representation needs much improvement, 
but the point can be seen.

       ------------------------------------------------------

        VHF BEAMS ABOVE AND BELOW HORIZONTAL HF BEAMS


       Normally, you should place the VHF beam approximately 
one wave length above any HF horizontal with excellent results.
Using the information from part one, best signal propagation can
be obtained.

       Mounting the VHF beam below the HF horizontal beam can
present problems relating to masting attenuation as stated in 
part one.  A solution can be had though.  By mounting the VHF beam
offset to the mast and counter balancing the arm with another VHF 
antenna or weight, you can mount the VHF antenna(s) below the HF
beam.

       figure three:


       -----------------------[]-------------------- HF beam
                              ||
                              ||
                              || mast
                              ||
                _______       ||          |
                   o----------[]---------o|  VHF beams on cross boom
                              ||          |
                              ||
                             ||||
                             |||| tower

       This is a head on view of the configuration discussed above.
The only difficulties observed was the top heavyness of the HF beam
on the extended mast (not recommended for high wind areas) and some
difficulty on obtaining ducting for 2m/1.25m SSB operation.  This
is dependent on the proximity of the Horizontal VHF beam to the HF 
beam.  This side mounting configuration rotates with HF beam and
maintains a constant distance from the tower and HF beam.

       -------------------------------------------------------

           METAL GUYS AND THEIR EFFECT ON VHF BEAMS

       There is some effect on VHF beams and their proximity to 
metal guys.  Most of the efect takes place when the beam is mounted
to the side of the tower enveloped by metal guys.  The effect
is not significant unless the beam is close the guys.  

       If the VHF beam is on a rotor, make sure you have proper 
clearance for good rotation.  Having the last element snag on the
guy will send you back up the tower for adjustments.  This simple
step is often overlooked when installing a VHF beam in this way.

       Metal guys can be a serious disaster if they become entangled
on the rotatable VHF beam.  Take it from experience.


SUBJECT:  Wire antennas - part one

    Dollar for dollar, the wire antenna is an Amateur Radio Operators
best bet when it comes to inexpensive antennas.  In the lower bands,
160, 80, and 40m, the wire antenna is nearly the only means for most 
AROs to work those bands.

    Wire antennas perform from great to poor depending on many factors
even when the antenna is cut for the frequency desired.  I'll discuss
some of my findings with wire antennas in this eight part series.
Since most of the wire antennas are published in numerous antenna books,
the specifics of most wire antennas will be left to the reader to
investigate for the band they wish to operate in.  Instead, I will discuss
some helpful hints, findings, and misgivings about wire antennas that
the ARO can use in overcoming the difficulties encountered with their
first wire antennas and some that the old pros may find usefull.

    I will be discussing the advantages and disadvantages of wire antennas
on different bands, wire diameter, ground height, matching, multi-band
wire antennas, and a few other odds and ends.

    -----------------------------------------------------------------

    First, let's look at the capture area of a wire antenna cut as a 
dipole.  We can examine this at 10m for ease of calculations and
understanding.

    Many hams use a #12 or #10 wire when constructing their wire antennas.
It's cheap and easy to obtain.  Some wire antennas come as kits and use
strained wire verses the solid conductor many hams use in their home
construction.  Looking at the diameter of the wire, whether strained or
not, it can be easily seen that a dipole made from aluminum tubing has
a greater capture area, without picking up a calculator to find out the
difference.   Larger diameter elements produce greater bandwidths, thus
a wire dipole on 10m would have a limited bandwidth compared to it's
aluminum tubing counterpart.

    How does one overcome this?  Through trial and error, and a tight
budget when I first got into Ham radio, I found that cutting the wire
antenna slightly shorter that the designed frequency and adding some 
tubing to the end of the dipole, I was able to expand the bandwidth
of the wire antenna upto three times the orignal value.

    It doesn't take much tubing or a large diameter to accomplish this.
I used two of these units (of course, one on each end).  There are two
parts to the extention.  Use a 12-in x 1/2-in diameter tube with an
8-in x 3/8-in tube telescoping inside the former.  By placing a vertical
cut into the 12-in section, a clamp can be used to lock the two tubes
together.  Now you have tunable end pieces.  Run the support rope through
the tubing and attach to the wire then secure the wire to the 1/2-in end
of the tubing.  A good electrical contact is a must.  The rope will 
support the tunable end piece. 

    The end pieces are also much greater in diameter than the wire, adding
to the capture area.  Also they provide a tunable method for zeroing the
dipole to the frequency desired or changing the frequency of the dipole 
later.  At 10m, I would recommend an aluminum tubing dipole and save
this technique for the 30m and below antennas.  For the lower frequency
wire dipoles and inverted vees, the tubing can be made much longer for
better results.  There is a fine line between weight and performance that
needs to looked into when using this method and it's a function of the
antenna support and support lines.

    I stumbled across this technique while putting around with a 40m
inverted vee.  I just could not get the bandwidth and SWR right.  It was
either too high for the resonate frequency or too low no matter what
the calculator thought.  The SWR was 2:1 and I wanted an antenna that 
did not require a tuner for my solid state radio.  I grew tired of 
soldering and cutting wire and decided to add the tubing extenders.
Not only did I get the Inverted Vee on target, 7.15 MHz, but I covered
the entire 40m band and the MARS frequency I was required to attend on.
The SWR was below 1.5:1 across the entire band also!  :-)

    It worked so well I decided to bring it to field day, 1991.  The
antenna worked very well and without a tuner.  If you have any questions
about the modification, let me know on this echo.

SUBJECT:  Wire antennaas - part 2

    In this posting, we'll look at long wires and random wire 
misconceptions.  

    Placing an undertermined length of wire out to a tree or support mast
is *not* a long wire antenna.  This is a random wire antenna which most of 
the amateur community calls a 'long wire' antenna.  This misconception
leads to many discouraging ideas about long wires.  A long wire antenna
is an antenna that is at least five wave lengths at the lowest frequency.
After five wave lengths, the SWR becomes insignificant to the xcvr for 
a properly tuned long wire.  

    Five wave lengths you say.  Yes, five wave lengths.  So, at 3.75 MHz
the length of a minimum long wire would be (984/fMHz) X 5 or 1312-ft.
Not an antenna you can slap in most back yards unless you are a rancher.

    When it comes to VHF and above, the longwire antenna can be easily
outclassed by numerous other designs, but at low HF frequencies the other
designs become too cumbersome to use and the longwire fills the niche.

    Let's take a look at the random wire antenna used by so many of us
hams.  A tuner is a must for any work with a random wire antenna.  These
antennas usually consist for a wire stretched between here and there.
Dissapointed hams soon find that the easy way out isn't the answer. 
That 75-ft wire is not going to get them the performance they invisioned.
Random wires are good for SWLing provided a tuner is used with the antenna.
They're cheap to construct and cheap to buy.  But a 75-ft wire in a
standard size lot is not much of an antenna for amateur radio use.  Granted,
it maybe all you can afford or be able to set-up at your QTH, but a ham 
can do better for transceiving.

    -------------------------------------------------------------

    Longwires can provide nearly 3dB of gain over a dipole at 4 wave
lengths provided the antenna is sufficiently placed above the ground
and the wave angle of the antenna is correct.

    The formula for longwire length is:

              Length in ft= 984(N-0.0250)/fMHz where N is the number
of wavelengths.   
 
    The longwire is a fixed antenna, so care should be taken where the
antenna is to be placed.  Your favorite RF stomping grounds such as
Europe or the Far East, etc should be kept in mind.

    Next posting will have some additional information on longwires
and other wire antennas for standard size lots.


SUBJECT: Wire antennas- part 3

    In this posting I will be discussing some of the different wire antennas
the we use in the amateur world.

    These antennas are:

    o Long Wire, closing remarks.

      The long wire antenna was discussed in the previous posting.  I 
    would recommend this antenna for those interested in a continued 
    contact postion with a specific station.  Long enough, the longwire 
    can provide very good signal in the direction of the antenna for 
    fixed communication.
    
    o Wire Dipole

      Simple to make and inexpensive to buy.  It's the basic design for
    Inverted Vee.  Basically a bidirectional antenna with a balun. Antenna
    is null of the tips.  The dipole is 2.14 dB over isotropic and is
    and electrical halfwave.  Can be arranged vertically or horizontal.
    It is a linear antenna.

    o Inverted Vee

      This antenna is a dipole with sloping elements.  The antenna is 
    omni-directional for the most part.  It's overall gain is slightly
    less than a dipole because of the more omni pattern.

    o Rhombic

      This is a rather large antenna. Rhombics can be various lengths total.
    In the UHF range, 19 wavelengths is common.  In HF, 4 and up is common.
    This antenna requires some land depending on the frequency.  A rhombic
    is good to twice it's design frequency, directional, and fixed.

    o Terminated longwire

      Requires some space, but performs well.  Directional with a wider
    bandwidth than the longwire at shorter lengths.

    o Sloping Vee

      Similar to the Inverted Vee, the sloping vee is semi-directional.
    Easy to install, inexpensive, and easy to build.

    o Beverage

      Good all band antenna with a tuner.  Easy to build and set-up.
    Requires some space and not suitalbe for small lots.

    o Marconi

      Large antenna requiring some space, but good for the lower HF bands.
    Semi-directional, the marconi is easy to build and cheap to construct.

    o Folded Marconi

      Cheap and easy to install antenna.  Made from 300 ribbon cable (TV).
    Set up in a 'hockey stick' form.  Use a tuner.  Works well in the
    40-160 range.  Requires a ground plane.

    o Loop

      Consists of a full wave length and can be set-up horizontally or 
    vertically polarized with the antenna in the vertical position or
    set-up parallel to the ground for lower frequencies.

    o Sloper

      Common design for most hams.  Antenna is a slooping dipole or 
    sloping quarter wave.  Easy to bulid and install.  Semi-directional
    in the direction of the slope.

SUBJECT: Wire antennas - Part 4

    Both of the following antennas are using 12 guage wire.

    Wire Dipoles:  Use the formula 468/fMHz to cut the dipole.  String 
it up in the area you have planned.  Attach your coax and a balun.  
Check the SWR.  If it is within your spec's it's ready to use. If not,
do the following:

    o         Check the SWR from the bottow of the band to the top.
              don't step on anyone having a QSO.  Use the least amount
              of power to do this.  I'll use 40m as an example.

              7.0       1.7:1
              7.05      1.8:1
              7.1       2.1:1
              7.15      2.2:1
              7.2       2.5:1
              7.25      3.0:1
              7.3       3.5:1

              This indicates that the antenna is too long and the resonate
    frequency of the antenna is below the band.  This could happen because
    of the following:

    o         A thicker diameter wire was used.
    o         You mis-measured.
    o         Something near the antenna is resonating with it.
    o         Too low to the ground.

    Solution: trim off about six inches either side and try again.

    o         Case two:  SWR Readings;

              7.0       4.0:1
              7.05      3.5:1
              7.1       3.3:1
              7.15      3.0:1
              7.2       2.4:1
              7.25      2.0:1
              7.3       1.8:1

              This indicates the antenna is too short. "But I keep cutting
    off wire and it's still too short."  (Raised eyebrows.)

    All is not lost here.  Solution:  add telescoping elements to the ends.
    Aluminum tubing, 3/8-in & 1/4-in dia.,secured with a screw should do the 
    trick.  3/8-in dia. = 1-ft, 1/4-in dia. = 11-in in length.

                           __________________ wire attaches here
              =============__________________

    Now you can adjust the ends of the dipole until the SWR reaches the
    desired level at the desired frequency.

    This problem can happen when the guage of wire used is smaller than 
    the recommended size.

    Remember: Thicker => shorter;  Thinner => longer.

    Here's some Dipole measurements for HF:

    BAND      LENGTH-FT           DESIGN FREQUENCY

    10m       16' 5 1/2"          28.45 MHz
    12m       18' 9"              24.94 MHz
    15m       21' 11 1/4"         21.335 MHz
    17m       25' 10"             18.11 MHz
    20m       33' 0"              14.2 MHz
    30m       46' 3"              10.12 MHz
    40m       65' 5"              7.15 MHz
    75m       123' 2"             3.8 MHz
    80m       130' 0"             3.6 MHz
    160m high 240' 0"             1.95 MHz
    160m low  252' 10"            1.85 MHz

SUBJECT: Wire antennas - part 5


RHOMBICS

    I've talked about rhombics before and in this posting I would like to 
discuss the rhombic for use in the UHF range.  We have hashed over rhombics
in the HF range and many antenna books discuss this antennas.  Most AROs
don't have the room on their property or do not have property to construct
a rhombic on.  There seems to be very little on rhombics for UHF work.

    After looking at some plans for a multi-element rombic on 70cm, I
decided to modify the plans and came up with a 23cm, 12 element rhomboid.
The official name is a dual hexamerous rhomboid which is 2X6 rhomboid
antenna.  The antenna has twelve elements, with a gain of 33dBi, an is
no bigger than a TV antenna!  On 70cm, the antenna is 19-ft long (apprx)
and below that I wouldn't bother unless you have the tower and room.
Unless you can mount a B-52 to a tower, 2m is out of the question.

    Testing on the 23cm DHR shows a Front to back ratio greater than
30:1 with front to side ratios about the same.  This is a true cannon.
The main lobe is tight at 12 degrees both vertical and horizontal.
Matching is a bit difficult since micro-strip knowledge is a must.
Although the antenna is 50 ohms balanced, the frequency demands exactness.
This involves phasing elements, stripline baluns, and hardline feeds.
But for the 23 experimenter, this antenna packs the punch of a large 
parabolic reflector and in a small package.  I'll be giving the details 
in the next posting.


SUBJECT: UHF Rhombic

    In wire antennas part 5 we discussed the UHF Rhombic antenna. 
I have the plans for one here.  This antenna is called the Dual 
Hexamerous Rhombiod or DHR.  A stripline balun provides a 50 ohm 
output for interface with hardline or antenna switch.

    The antenna consists of two stacked six element rhomboids. 
Each six element rhomboid consists of six rhombics of which each
rhombic is 19 wave lengths and four sided.  Each rhombic is 
terminated at the 9.5 wave length mark with a *** 2w resistor.

    Each rhombic is geometrically interfaced to a wooden frame
with a common start and ending point.  Nineteen wave lengths was
choosen for gain and front to back ratio.

    The actual plans for this antenna are available via the snail
mail through me.  Please include a legal size envelope and one stamp.
The BALUN is the key to the antenna and I would recommend this for
those who are into 23cm and have stripline experience.

-------------------------------

Folded Marconi

    This is an easy antenna to construct and I recommend this highly
for those AROs who have limited room and desire an antenna that performs
better than most wire antennas.

    The design is easy.  Cut a length of 300 ohm ribbon cable (TV line)
using the following formula:

              246/fMHz

    ex:  At 7.15MHz the Folded marconi length would be 246/7.15 or
34.4 feet.

    Cut back about 1/2 inch and expose the leads in the ribbon cable.
twist them together and solder.  Seal with RTV.  Punch a hole about 
one inch down from the soldered end and run a cable tie through the
hole and save for later.

    At the other end, expose about 3/4 inch of lead and solder one lead
to the center conductor of your coax.  The other lead is attached to 
a ground plane system or ... use the roof flashing on your house.
You can ground the roof flashing and suspend the folded marconi over 
the house.  This is the setup I have used here at the QTH.  The 
antenna was suspended over the house from my tower to the Palm tree
in the front yard.  The vertical height was 25 feet and the rest was
horizontal.  With this antenna, the greater the vertical section the 
better.

    You will need a tuner with this antenna as the impedance is very low.

SUBJECT: Wire antennas- part 7

INVERTED VEE

    This antenna is basically a half wave dipole with each leg sloped
down at a 45 degree angle from the horizontal, 180 degrees apart.

                        X  feed point
                      / | \
                    /   |   \
                  /     |     \  element leg
                /       |       \
              /         |         \
                        |
                        -  tower or mast

              ----------X----------   Top view

    The overall length of the Inverted Vee is slightly longer than the
standard wire dipole.  For 10m, the length is only 2 inches longer.

    This antenna can be fed directly with 50 or 75 ohm coax, but it is
suggested that a 1:1 BALUN be used.  The tips of the Inverted Vee should
be kept well off the ground as the RF voltage levels are high at the ends.
This is more of a protection for young ones playing around the area.

    If you recall the formula c=sqrt(a^2 + b^2) and insert the length of
the element leg for c.  Use the fact that a = b because of the 45 degree
angles between the mast and the element leg and the angle between the 
element leg and the horizontal, this will equate to:

              c = sqrt(2a^2) => a = sqrt(0.5c^2)

    This will give you the value of a which is the height of the mast
at the horizontal line to the end of the element leg.  Add eight feet
for protection from the high RF voltage levels and you have the height
of the mast required to support your Inverted Vee antenna.

    EX:  40m Inverted Vee; 66'2" @ 7.15 MHz
         (66'2")/2 = 33'1"
         c=33'1" => 33.0833 decimal 

         a = sqrt(0.5c^2) = 23.39345 => + 8 = 31.39345 => 31'4.75"

         Thus the mast height is 31' 4.75" to support a 40m Inverted Vee,
minimum.

    The Inverted Vee is basically omni although the pattern is not quite
but close enough. The gain is basically unity over a good ground.  It is
an inexpensive antenna to build and performs very well on all HF/MF bands.


---------------------------


BEVERAGE ANTENNA

    This is also a basic wire antenna of which is one wave length or
longer.  Normal designs are one wave and this must be kept in mind 
when placing one on the property.  Once installed the direction is 
fixed.

    The beverage antenna has a low angle of propagation which makes it
excellent for the lower bands (30m, 40m, 75/80m, & 160m).


              -------------------------------
          __  |                             |
     Rx     }|{                             Zo
          __}|{                             |
              |                             G & radials
              G

    The Beverage is inefficient as a transmitting antenna and it is 
suggested that it be used as a receiving antenna only.  The pattern
of the beverage is similar to a good yagi.

    Formulas and specifics for this antenna can be found in the ARRL
antenna handbook.


SUBJECT: Wire antennas- part 8

Sloping Vee

    The Sloping Vee is basically an Inverted Vee in an equilateral 
triangle configuration at a 45 degree angle to the vertical mast.
Not as wideband as the inverted vee and also not omni as the antenna 
shows characteristics towards the sloping elements.  Basically unity +
in gain. Can be fed with a 50 ohm coax but a 1:1 BALUN is recommended.
Element lengths are similar to the Inverted Vee design.

    This antenna is good for AROs with limited space and stay within
a specified area of a band.  With a tuner the antenna will cover a
wider range but will be less effective.

    Remember that the same hold true for the Sloping Vee as the Inverted
Vee; keep the ends high enough off the ground so that children and
adults can not touch them.

-----------

Terminated Longwires

    Similar to the Longwire, the terminated longwire is usually shorter
and terminated with the characteristic impeadance of the antenna.  The
terminating resistor should be able to handle at least half the
intended power levels of the transceiver.  This terminating resistor 
between 500 to 700 ohms when the antenna is 20 - 40 feet above ground.

    Similar results can be obtained from the terminated longwire as with
the Longwire as far as antenna patterns, directivity, etc.


------------

Marconi Antenna

    The marconi is a quarter wave antenna bent over to be parallel with 
the ground. This model works similar to the Folded Marconi except ...  
this antenna requires a series LC circuit with the feed line connected
to the inductor as a tap.  Let'see how the ascii graphics can handle 
this.


              ---------------------------------------
            /
          /               Length = 125 for 160m
        /
      /
     |
     = tunable cap  700pF
     |
     }<---0-coax
     } L  |      L = 13 uH
     |----|
     X gound plane

    Well not too bad.

    Check out Orr & Cowan for the details.


------------------


Sloper.

    This antenna is great for the 'El Cheapo' antenna builders or the
poor guy with no room.  The antenna consists of a quarterwave componet
sloping down 45 degrees from the peak of the support and a grounding
lead parallel to the support.  The support itself can be used for the
downlead provided it can conduct.  The second form of the sloper is
a dipole suspended 45 degrees down from the peak of the support. 

    In either case, the antenna is directive and the directivity
is as such:


         |\ feed point
         |  \  sloper
         |    \
         |      \    ---------> direction of wave
         |        \
         |          \
         |            \
         |              \
         |               |
         | mast          | wooden support
     ----------------------------------------- ground

    If you use a tree for the mast, be sure to clear the branches before
the sloper actually starts.  This is the feed point and your down lead 
for the ground starts here also.  If you look at it, it's nothing more
than a dipole with a vertical ground element and a sloping radiator.


    Like I promised (oh nooooo) here are some of the wire designs I
have built here at the house.  Some of these are the common mistake
antennas that we all go through or yet to have, and maybe this will
discourage some from making the same mistakes.


1) 80m Vee-Dipole: This one was a real hoser.  I was a novice and 
decided that a wire antenna was the answer to all my dreams.  With
a tuner and this semi-correct design of mine I could work the world.
Wrong.  Here it is; one leg was 55'6" and the other was 65'0".  The
first leg was tied to a palm tree 25 feet off the ground. The second 
leg was tied to another palm tree at 40 feet.  Both legs combined at
the monster tower (26 feet).  So, the antenna legs pointed up 
instead of down and the angle between the legs was 85 degrees.  
Needless to say it was a flop and the SWR was near the national 
debt.

2)40/80m Trap Vee-Dipole:  More or less the same results but I could
tune in 80m now. It worked short range very well but 40m was dismal.

3)Folded Marconi:  Worked absolutely wonderful until the first 
thunderstorm. I used fishing line to hold it up.  The wind left it
in my neighbors yard.  Following Folded Marconi antennas were
supported better and only came down when I wanted them to.

4)Coiled Marconi: Similar to the Folded Marconi, the Coiled Marconi 
uses a piece of four foot by 3/4 inch PVC:


              @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@==||    Coiled section 20 turns
                             /   ||
                           /     ||
                         /       ||
                       /         ||
                     /           ||
                    |============||    Stand-off, 3 foot insulating
                     \           ||
                       \         ||
                         \       ||
                           \     ||
                             \   ||
                               \ ||
                                X||    Feed point.
                                 ||
                                 ||mast
                          -------------------------

    This antenna worked very well with a tuner and on 40m did not 
require a tuner at all.  Cut the 300 ohm ribbon cable (TV) to the same
values as for a folded marconi. 

5)160m Spider Web Disaster: This was one of those 'Let's see what 
this old transformer winding wire can do' antennas.  Although the 
antenna was pretty fair and I did talk to Tennessee, the antenna had
a habbit of collecting odds and ends like palm frons, leaves, birds,
branches, and these items caught the neighborhoods eye.  "How is that
branch hanging there?" "Is that bird hovering? My God he's dead!!"
Needless to say, I took it down and the bird too.


    The last part of this series is going to
be devoted to wire antennas used on past field days, including all
the laughs and disappointments.

¥	Field Day 89, Draa Field, Titusville, FL.  This was the field day
of the Osprey.  Draa field is a shared football field by the two high
schools in Titusville.  It has 50 foot tall bleachers, press box, and 
six 70 foot high lighting towers made out of cement.  They also make
excellent homes for Ospreys and indeed the one tower we needed was 
home to a new family of Ospreys.  These are no slouch birds mind you 
don't take kindly to having a brave amateur climb the rebar ladder
under their babies.  We had to draw straws but our best climber got
the job anyhow.  What finally was placed up there was apulley system 
to raise our 80 inverted Vee.  This did rather well and was worth
the effort and much to the dive bombing and crying of the Ospreys.
Too bad it rained the whole weekend. |-( But we did do the best TARC
ever did, 3700 points. Too bad the guy that was suppose to turn in the 
points never did.  

¥	Field Day 88, Draa Field, Titusville, FL.  On this field day 
we used two of the lighting towers and strung out a full wave loop 
for 80 meters.  Well ... it wasn't quite high enough, and it wasn't 
in the right location, and it didn't do well ... really poor ...
it sucked ... and it rained all weekend.

¥	Field Day 90, Complex 25, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. We
had two wire antennas; a 40m Inverted Vee taken from my tower here
and using the mods I discussed earlier and a 'field day' 80m 
'bow tie' antenna.  The 40m worked fine and we copped more than 500
points on 40m, but the 80m was dismal. And it rained all weekend.

¥	Field Day 91, Complex 25, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. We
dumped the bow tie and went with an Inverted Vee for both 80 and 40.
Too bad 80 was so so as we worked only 200 points worth. But we had
no problem reaching the Northeast and the Mississippi area. And it 
rained all weekend.

¥	Field Day 92, Complex 25, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. We
had beams on most bands but the Inverted Vees worked fine again. This
year we doubled our points and scored well in the 4000s working 4A.
Next year they be a 40m yagi in operation. Look for K4FD, Kings
4 Field Day.  BTW, it rained all day, ... again.

¥	Field Day 93: 10m 3e Yagi, 15m 3e Yagi, 20m 3e Yagi, 40m 2e Yagi,
80m Inverted Vee, SAT, PACKET, see you on the air, I'll be on 20m.