OAUSA Net - May 19, 2016 – Antenna Construction

[toms]

This week we will be discussing antenna construction with Hector KE6VRL.

Ham Radio HF/VHF Antenna Lengths Chart.
Here is a handy chart for determing 1/4 wave verticals, 1/2 wave dipoles, and full wave loop lengths.
All antenna lengths in the information below are in feet and are the results based on the standard formula of 468 / FMhz = total length in feet.
Loop antenna lengths are based on using 1005 / FMhz = total loop length in feet.
As with any antenna, lengths should be cut longer than formula results and then trim as needed for best swr. The chart covers all ham bands from 160 meters through 2 meters only. Note the lengths for the new 60 meter band frequency to be effective March 5, 2012.

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[toms]

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[toms]

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[lrsrngr]

KK6CTT with an internet check-in please. Also wanted to share a blast from the past...from my tool box when using HF communication, OG 107s and Panama sole Jungle Boots.

http://www.prc68.com/I/GRA50.shtml

The Army/Navy-Ground Radio Antenna or "gray fifty" as it was commonly referred to. Great antenna but not the best for a reconnaissance team trying to hide in the woods when the leaves and all the other stuff that concealed our presence grounded out the bare wire antenna when you were trying to make comms on 100 plus feet of antenna. That is where the 110 foot claymore wire came in handy... The insulation kept the ground problem at bay and was much more tactically sound.

Balun comes from an older radio kit circa AN/PRC-70/74. It was sought after because the BNC connector readily hooked up to the radio whereas the GRA-50 needed an adapter that was like gold. You hated to give up your bag once you got it fully stocked.

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The older style balun with the GRA-50 wire spools. Yes, the spools are heavy.

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The heavy bag of tricks with the N connector fed balun and tape measure that was part of the kit. This is a workhorse of an antenna but heavy. The load was usually split between the RTO and the ARTO. Field expedient wire antennas were the favorite "go-to" item but it took a working knowledge of how to make the best out of your "system" that got the best results with our AN/PRC-104. I learned to love on attaching point antennas because the logistics of raising a horizontal dipole in the woods was like raising a flag for others to find you under.

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[KAP]

To all,
I would like to announce that the Raahauges Shooting Sports Fair will once again be held in Corona, CA this year as follows:

Date- June 3rd-5th
Where- Raahauge's Shooting Enterprises
14995 River Road
Corona,CA 92880
951.735.7981
Fri. - Noon - 6PM
Sat. - 10AM - 6PM
Sun. - 10AM - 5PM

Parking is $5.00
Entry is $15 per person, children 14 and under are FREE
There is a small fee each time you shoot to cover the cost of ammo. Usually $3- $10 per firearm depending on the caliber.

Also at the Fair: Food, Drinks, exebitions, Dog competitions, Rock Climbing Wall.

What:
The event will give the Public an opportunity to shoot a variety of firearms from .22- .500 S&W handguns, .22- .50 BMG rifles, shotguns and air rifles in a controlled, Family environment. This is the only event of its type the West. There is no other place where you can try and compare multiple firearms before you buy. This is a great place to introduce a Spouse, Child or friend to the shooting sports

Firearms Factory Reps will be in attendance to offer advice and provide a safe and fun environment. The event is sponsored by Turner's Outdoorsmen and special pricing is available during the event. Remember you will need a firearms safety certificate before you purchase so please check with your local dealer to take the test.
http://oag.ca.gov/firearms/fscpfaqs

What to Bring:
Cash, ear protection, sunscreen, closed toed shoes, hat and friends. All of this is, except the cash and friends, will be available for sale at the event.

Links:
http://raahauges.com/
http://shootingfair.com/
https://www.turners.com/info/events

Hope to see you there.
Kevin
KK6DGL