Theory:
This antenna is a simple dipole based on Jerry's (KG6HQD) ultalight version for QRP SOTA. Basic design is for 20m POTA. Adding optional linked sections at ends allow 40m operation as well. Switching bands takes a few minutes.
click to enlarge
Advantages:
• excellent on-air performance
• inexpensive
• NO feedline-radiator connection to break
• NO coax connection to break
Construction:
• 18-gage wire from Home Depot for QRO @ 25-100 watts
• approximately 17 feet on each side of knot
• underwriter's knot between feedline and antenna
• banana plug to rig SO-239 antenna jack
• push-on "F" connector to rig chassis/ground
• ring terminals at ends for paracord OR 40m add-on segments
• set up as inverted-V for omnidirectional propagation
• 10-15 feet of micro-paracord to tent pegs
click to enlarge connections
An analyzer will make tuning easy and precise, but you can use the SWR meter in your rig if you don’t have one.
|
