I think I'll order this antenna tomorrow.
http://www.copper.com/cart/product_i...7f1ba3585ea42d
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I think I'll order this antenna tomorrow.
http://www.copper.com/cart/product_i...7f1ba3585ea42d
Gain figure is a bit exaggerated. "Power Multiplication:20x" is definitely exaggerated.Quote:
Originally Posted by kk4fpx
Typically, a 3-element beam has 7-8 db of gain, at best. That's not even a 10x increase in ERP.
My 15-4CD Skywalker shows about 10 dbd (12.1 dbi) for 4-elements.
It's a perfectly fine choice, but don't believe everything you read about gain specs, especially when it comes to CB antennas.
The problem with gain figures - especially in the case of CB antennas - that they're often stated in dBi (decibels over isotropic) when a more plausible real-world comparison is dBd (decibels over a dipole). It's very difficult (physically speaking) to construct and position a true isotropic radiator, but that doesn't stop sellers from using one as a reference point.
The late, great Albi once told a story about building an isotropic radiator. He said he forgot to attach the feed line before he put it down, and then couldn't find it again.Quote:
Originally Posted by N8YX
I.m aware the gain is over stated.But it's still better than my inverted v.
It will definitely be better than what you're currently using. And there's a couple ways to get coverage from 24-30MHz if you're space limited and also want to use the setup with your CB rig...either by sticking another driven element (parasitically coupled) on the boom, adding a bit of boom to either end, a 12M reflector/director and an 11M director...or just convert the works into a log-periodic. 5 elements properly laid out will net you around 6dBd forward gain and around 16dB F/B ratio across that entire range.Quote:
Originally Posted by kk4fpx
Build one. You'll save bucks, and you'll have the pride of knowing it is something you built. Plenty of plans online.
Here is a nice 2 element: http://www.iw5edi.com/ham-radio/?2-e...meters-band,49
You don't need all that aluminum tubing either. Build it with wire and PVC Pipe for support.
Or how about a 10M Moxon? A great antenna! Cheap and easy! http://www.wb5cxc.com/10mmoxon.html
Building antennas has been one of the things I like best about this hobby.
For Aluminum tubing Texas Towers is a great source: http://www.texastowers.com/aluminum_.htm
Truth. Build your own antenna for the win. Verticals are easy. You can find everything reasonably priced at the local Home Depot or other hardware store. I have used copper, conduit, (yeah that is heavy) and wires with pvc. I have EZNEC and design what I want to build and when I have time,, I build it.Quote:
Originally Posted by KA9MOT
Check for local a scrapyard that specializes in aluminum. There's one here in Commerce City that is amazing.
Replaced busted pieces on my Gap Titan, with good results.