Radio for Preparedness 101: VHF/UHF HT Antennas

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  • Опубліковано 22 гру 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 202

  • @jdhdjhdhdhj3148
    @jdhdjhdhdhj3148 2 місяці тому +33

    Never seen your channel before . Heading down 14 on top of Seneca heard you guys load and clear. Next day UA-cam suggest this video to me.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +8

      That's crazy! UA-cam is watching us LOL. Glad to have you here!

  • @michaelbritt639
    @michaelbritt639 2 місяці тому +10

    This was an excellent video. Never stop doing this. This is providing an invaluable service to people who don't want to spend money on things that won't work.

  • @2000gecs
    @2000gecs 2 місяці тому +10

    Love your videos! I always walk away feeling like I have learned some new things from them

  • @fshieldsii
    @fshieldsii Місяць тому +4

    Just starting my radio journey and know little about antennas except that they are probably more important than the radio itself. First time watching your channel. Amazing video! Saved to favorites list and shared with friends. Good to see a video on actual performance & recommendations instead of just antenna theory.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      Thanks! Yeah, what matters is how does it work in the real world. When I get to HF antennas, that's when things will get kind of crazy LOL.

  • @lynneftw
    @lynneftw Місяць тому +5

    This is a ridiculously informative video for someone like me who considers amateur radio speak to be Greek to me. Even getting your ham ticket won't teach you the most important stuff, which is how to use the radio, understand the repeaters, antenna differences, or understanding frequencies.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Thank you for watching!

    • @joevoss335
      @joevoss335 15 днів тому

      One of my teachers always said your ham ticket is your “license to learn” great video indeed thx! 73s

  • @donz7992
    @donz7992 Місяць тому +1

    Great discussion of something most of us take for granted. I picked up a Signal Stick for my FT-65 when I was in Dayton. While watching the video I tried hitting a few repeaters in the Metro; I can easily hit most of the VHF repeaters within 10 miles or so. Then I tried one that is 21 miles away and I got an S7 with some frying bacon from my office. Granted I have a walkout so my office is one floor above ground in the direction of the repeater, but from inside the house I think that is pretty good. Now I need more H/Ts! lol! Thanks Evan!

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Thanks for watching Don!

  • @tenwalls2428
    @tenwalls2428 11 днів тому

    Thanks. Finally, someone making some sensible instructional videos.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  11 днів тому

      Thank you! I appreciate the feedback

  • @Uncle_Fred
    @Uncle_Fred 2 місяці тому +9

    In my opinion, the only good antennas for outdoor use are the tuned Smiley heavy duty antennas used by the Canadian SAR crews. They are not cheap, but they are robust enough to handle actual wilderness conditions.
    As a compromise, the non-SAR versions of the same antennas are also good enough for most backpacking/camping purposes.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +5

      The Signal Sticks are pretty much indestructible too. Either Smiley or Signal Stuff would be my go to for most stuff.

    • @TerraMagnus
      @TerraMagnus 2 місяці тому +4

      Get a hold of a N9TAX “slim Jim”. It rolls up easily for EDC. If you can get a line over a branch, hoist that thing up, you’ve now got a J pole up in the air that rolls up about the size of an orange in your go bag.

    • @Uncle_Fred
      @Uncle_Fred 2 місяці тому

      ​@TerraMagnus The issue I have with these longer antennas is a use case problem. In general, I use UHF/VHF radios as handie-talkies to communicate with members of a small hiking group.
      Where stationary deployments make sense might be SOTA, CW, digital via towers or other means for long distance coms, but that makes more sense for HF, or better yet, satalite communicators like the Garmin Inreach.

  • @jeffb5781
    @jeffb5781 Місяць тому +1

    Awesome information. Never knew about reading the frequency information on the bottom of the antennas. Good stuff.

  • @peterkunka2694
    @peterkunka2694 2 місяці тому +2

    Great video describing/demonstrating various antenna performances. I tend to go with shorter antennas on an HT (I use an ID-51 for D-Star, scanning use, etc), and if I need more range I start going towards the ID-5100 mobile in the truck. I'm more of a camper than a hiker, so I could even use my HT into the truck's mobile set on cross-band repeat for longer range work. Another variable to think about... UHF is more urban friendly, and VHF is more forest/woodsy friendly to get signals through... so, choosing your band and antenna depending on environment will make performance gains, too. For mobile use, I use a ghost antenna daily because it goes through carwashes with no problem and clears the garage door while still having 40 mile range for repeaters in the Phoenix area. Road trips, I am really surprised with the Comet B-10 and how much range I can get out of it. My mobile mount location is the 3rd brake light mount from Bulletproof Diesel on my F-150. Good stuff, I'll look for more from you. Cheers and 73! Pete in Arizona - KI7LIL & WRXY843

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      All great points! Thanks for your input, and thank you for watching!

    • @peterkunka2694
      @peterkunka2694 2 місяці тому +1

      @@EvanK2EJT No problem. I ordered the Comet CH-32 from your video and it arrived today. Testing it on my ID-51, and comparing it to the Diamond RH3 I was using (both BNC antennas), it performs better in both receiving and transmitting on UHF hitting a mountaintop linked repeater 12 miles away from home. 5 watts was full scale, same as using a whip antenna, but the RH3 was less than full scale. Noticeable difference between the two stubby's. Just wanted to share confirmation what you stated in your video about how good the CH-32 is on UHF. Thank you for the solid referral, and 73. Pete - KI7LIL

  • @mickhurley7305
    @mickhurley7305 28 днів тому

    Super video . Best videos on amateur radio Ive seen .

  • @robmcfaddin768
    @robmcfaddin768 Місяць тому +1

    Very good video, information. Also appreciate you not talking down to the viewers. Too much of that going on with other channels. Keep those videos coming

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Thank you for watching, and thanks for the feedback. I appreciate it!

  • @longrider42
    @longrider42 2 місяці тому +2

    What about the Abbree antenna's that fold? The "Tactical" antenna's. I've been using them for a few years now. They come in sizes 13 inch all the way up to 42 inch. I'm glad you use Signal Sticks, they are good antenna's./

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      I have one as well. The one I have is pretty big. I forget how long it is. The only reason I don't use that a ton it's kind of unwieldy. They definitely work though!

  • @KC2BKM
    @KC2BKM 2 місяці тому +5

    Dang! nice view! good timely information.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      Yeah, the view from up there is pretty sweet for sure!

  • @newsjunkie3000
    @newsjunkie3000 2 місяці тому +1

    Great video with so much info ❤ i am saving this one to my favorites list.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      Thank you! I appreciate it

  • @chrissewell1608
    @chrissewell1608 Місяць тому

    I have recently bought a "Fara-J" roll up J-Pole antenna, for emergencies, travel, and camping. Its incredible and worth the affordable cost. I highly recommend it for using with an H.T. or even a mobile radio.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Yeah, I really like the idea of those. Super compact and light. I need to give one a try!

  • @CanadienWoodsman
    @CanadienWoodsman 28 днів тому

    New to the world of radio, great video! I spot HPG merch there love it!

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  27 днів тому +1

      Yeah, I'm an HPG fanboy lol. Thanks for watching!

  • @LoftechUK
    @LoftechUK Місяць тому +1

    Fantastic video. Great. Thank you.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      Thanks! I appreciate it!

  • @KG6UQA
    @KG6UQA 2 місяці тому +1

    Thanks for the video, great information and worth tbe watch.

  • @kurtismeinhardt68
    @kurtismeinhardt68 Місяць тому

    I lived in Upstate NY for two years, lots in the ADK’s and a bit in the finger lakes, I miss it so much.
    Great content, I’d follow just to see NY 😂

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Thanks! Yeah, it's really nice here certain times of the year.......others, not so much LOL

  • @jmollo55
    @jmollo55 2 місяці тому +2

    I heard you call out yesterday ... both or all 3 times ... problem is i had no idea what frequency you were on ... by time i got to radio you were gone .... i did hear someone respond to you so i called it good ... maybe when testing give frequency your on

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +2

      Yesterday I was on 20m and 15m CW, and 146.52 on 2m FM and 446.00 70cm FM.

  • @albertosoto6213
    @albertosoto6213 2 місяці тому +6

    Thank you for the education brother, just got my GMRS license and I don't know anything about comms...Trying to learn bro.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +4

      There's a lot to learn. I actually use my GMRS HTs more than my ham HTs. The thing I love about GMRS is that I can share my license with my family, and that makes it supremely useful. Thanks for watching, and keep learning!

  • @marlawhite3682
    @marlawhite3682 2 місяці тому +2

    what a great view!!!! When did MFJ fold?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      Within the past year. You can still find a lot of their stuff for sale though since they made soooo many things.

  • @floid33556
    @floid33556 Місяць тому

    Another really great practical video. Do you have any great antenna recommendations for mobile (dual-band and/or GMRS)? This is going on a Jeep Wrangler. Thinking about the Anytone D578. I want to occasionally use gmrs on this radio with the local jeep club.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Any mobile antenna that will work on 70cm will also work on GMRS. It won't be perfectly resonant, but it'll be close enough to get the job done (I've done it many times). I run two different mobile antenna setups. The first is a Nagoya dual band mag mount setup. The second is a Signal Stuff BNC mag mount. The Signal Stuff mount is cool because you can put any BNC antenna on it. I usually run a dual band signal stick on it, but I've thrown all sorts of stuff on it before.

  • @lavinmlavin904
    @lavinmlavin904 2 місяці тому +1

    are there any aftermarket HT antenna for 6M? My fire dept uses what is colloquially known as 'low band', essentially 48-50mhz. Question 2. Do you know of any BNC adaptors to adapt Motorola propreatary HT antenna jacks out there? DE N2NET

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      There *are* 6m antennas, but they're a HUGE compromise. A 1/4 wave antenna on 6m would be about 5' long LOL. Most of them have a huge loading coil to make the antenna electrically long enough. They will work, but won't be very efficient. Any antenna should receive 6m well enough, it's transmitting that's the issue. As far as Motorola adapters, I honestly don't know. The only antenna manufacturer I can think of off the top of my head that makes Moto compatible antennas is Smiley. There may be others, but I'm honestly not sure.

  • @rpcomms1
    @rpcomms1 2 місяці тому +1

    Dont forget vhf low 66-88mhz /vhf low low 25-50mhz bands these work extremely well for simplex fm.
    Good video 👍

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      They do, but they're not super useful for an HT due to antenna limitations

    • @rpcomms1
      @rpcomms1 Місяць тому

      I've been testing VHF lo lo FM getting very good ranges on HTs
      Unfortunately Motorola stopped making the business version while back 29.7-36mhz.
      So I use President brand 25.6-28mhz N-FM+ctcss worth a look at 👍

  • @vincentdenich5034
    @vincentdenich5034 27 днів тому

    Great video Evan. Can you tell me which SMA to BNC adapter that is? Thank you and 73.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  26 днів тому

      I have several. Which SMA connection do you have?

    • @vincentdenich5034
      @vincentdenich5034 26 днів тому

      Hi Evan. I have the ID52 and Anytone 868.

  • @ColoradoGunfighter
    @ColoradoGunfighter Місяць тому

    Excellent presentation! Thanks for sharing

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Thanks for watching!

  • @kylefreemason
    @kylefreemason 12 днів тому

    Hi Evan, thanks for this great video! I have ordered a vgc vr n76. I intend to convert it to bnc as you did yours. Should I order a sma male or female to bnc? Thanks and 73, W0AAV

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  12 днів тому

      The radio is SMA male, so the adapter should be SMA female

    • @kylefreemason
      @kylefreemason 11 днів тому

      @@EvanK2EJT Thank you!

  • @joffito2495
    @joffito2495 Місяць тому

    I‘d like to hear your opinion about the VR-N76 you also show in this video. Thanks for this content. Really nice to watch and useful.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      So far I really like the radio. The single thing I dislike is the frequency in use on the screen is red text on a black background. The other frequency in white is the frequency not in use. Red on black makes it a little hard to see in the sun. Aside from that, everything else about the radio is fantastic, and I have zero regrets about buying it.

    • @joffito2495
      @joffito2495 Місяць тому

      @@EvanK2EJT thanks, appreciate your comment. Today i bought an ID-50. i like the monochrome screen so much more and the nearby repeater search+waterfall. I had to. I‘d also like to purchase a signal stick. But as a non US resident it‘s hard to get one. Not sure if dual band or mono band.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      @@joffito2495 The ID-50 is a fantastic radio! You won't be disappointed. You can actually make a signal stick yourself. All of the components are available on Amazon (and I'm sure other places as well). They're not difficult at all to put together.

    • @joffito2495
      @joffito2495 Місяць тому

      @@EvanK2EJT yep will try that at a later point in time. That should be part of the ham radio experience - diy some stuff :)

  • @shabbarvejlani
    @shabbarvejlani День тому

    Nice video Sir. I am curious whats inside these antennas, to understand why some are better than others. If you have some spares would you mind doing a tesrdown?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  День тому

      I don't have any that I can tear apart, but in short the good ones are generally either mono band antennas that are tuned to the correct portion of the band, or are dual band antennas that are both physically and electrically the correct length. Most of the cheap antennas are too short (to keep them compact) to radiate well. They use loading coils to get the electrical length correct, but the radiating element is short. They're generally also not very efficient.

    • @shabbarvejlani
      @shabbarvejlani День тому

      Thank you for the reply. As a ham, how can we confirm this experimentally? If someone has a bad antenna can we do something to fix it?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  День тому

      @@shabbarvejlani Well, you can measure signal strength. That's probably the best indicator. That being said, there's a lot that goes into making an antenna work as you want it to. Gain, polarization, directionality, length, etc. All antennas are a compromise of some sort. Really the only thing you can do with a bad antenna is replace it with a good antenna.

    • @shabbarvejlani
      @shabbarvejlani День тому

      ​@@EvanK2EJTthanks again for your feedback!

  • @AlexSwanson-rw7cv
    @AlexSwanson-rw7cv 2 місяці тому +1

    How much benefit do you see with non-default antennas on UHF vs VHF? My use case is just UHF at ~446MHz and I was looking at a 771 but I read that most of the improvement would be for VHF. Do those stubby UHF antennas improve on a stock rubber duck antenna in performance or are they just smaller/more convenient? For reference this is for a Retevis RA89 specifically.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      I've found the performance on the really stubby antennas to be somewhat worse than the stock antennas, with the exception of the Smiley stuff. The big advantage is size. Generally, a 1/4 wavelength antenna is probably going to be your best all around antenna for an HT for portable use. The 70cm Signal Stick is quite a bit better than the stock rubber duck is, as is the full length one.

    • @AlexSwanson-rw7cv
      @AlexSwanson-rw7cv 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT Thanks for the advice!

  • @RichardEnglander
    @RichardEnglander Місяць тому

    0:07 ah man that view is gorgeous ❤

  • @813sierravictor
    @813sierravictor 2 місяці тому

    Could you do a video talking about programming the TYT MD UV 390? I have a couple and was able to program them, but have had multiple problems. Scan doesn't work, no way to front panel program, etc. Thanks for the videos!

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +2

      Oh man..........I can, but that's a WHOLE different ballgame. DMR radios are way more complicated than analog stuff is. You can front panel program them, but it's a pain in the butt. The programming software is convoluted too. I'll put it on my list of stuff to shoot, but that's gonna be a pretty niche video LOL.

    • @813sierravictor
      @813sierravictor 2 місяці тому

      I'm aware that it's niche, that's why I'm asking.😄 Appreciate your straightforward video style.

  • @danielm.2491
    @danielm.2491 Місяць тому

    Hi, a freind of mine and me are planning to buy radios with a view to communicating in an emergency. we are seperated about 7 Kilometers beeline and a smaller hill + a little wooded area. My plan was to buy a yaesu ft65 with a better antenna. Do you think that this would be sufficient to communicate when stepping on our rooftops or do we need a solid stationary solution for that purpose? sorry to ask that stupidly, however i am a novice at that field. we are located in germany and obiously do not have any licence at all. thank you for the video btw, very nutricient

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      It's honestly hard to say whether it will work or not. 7km is well within the range of the radios. It will come down to obstructions between the two of you. The only way to know for sure is to try it and see if it works.

  • @gunplaytv
    @gunplaytv Місяць тому

    Thoughts on the tape style antennas?
    Alot of shooters opt to use those due to their flexibility and the fact they can be folded. But I've seen some people say they've cut one open and it was nothing but a tape measure inside

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Yeah, that's literally what they are inside. They work just fine, but they're very bulky for what they do. I'd rather just use a Signal Stick. They're WAY lighter, smaller, and much more flexible.

  • @chadcavalier1113
    @chadcavalier1113 2 місяці тому +1

    I just got my GMRS ticket now I am looking for 2 decent radios that have pretty good range and that are fairly easy to use looking for something for my wife and I to operate there are repeaters in the area but I don't know if I could hit them any suggestions on radios

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      There are SO many options. The first two questions are what is your budget, and do you require things like IP67 intrusion resistance? If you let me know what kind of money you want to spend, and what kind of environments you'll use them in, I can give you some suggestions.

    • @chadcavalier1113
      @chadcavalier1113 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT I guess no more than $100.00 dollars it also can be waterproof or resistant,simple to use with decent range needed, wife's work 18 miles from my work,camp to house 13 miles,to my nephews house 9.4 and I think there is a repeater about 18 miles on a very high bridge all these measurements strait line with swamp trees very little of anything in the way don't know if there is anything with that kind of range out there in GMRS handheld I don't know

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      @@chadcavalier1113 I have two of these, and they work great for the money: www.amazon.com/BAOFENG-Weather-Receiver-Rechargeable-Headsets/dp/B0B3DRG9GC/ref=sr_1_4?
      They're not water resistant, but they're type-c charging, come with two different antennas, etc.
      If you want something water resistant, something like this would fit the bill: www.amazon.com/Retevis-HA1G-Handheld-Rechargeable-Waterproof/dp/B0CHRJ3PRS/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?

  • @marctlm3636
    @marctlm3636 Місяць тому

    Great video. First time viewer. New to ham. Which specific set of antennas would you recommend for the most versatility for an off grid scenario using a FT5DR which lives on the chest. I can keep other antennas in the pack.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      I'd get three or four, depending on what you want to do. First, a stubby to live on the radio while it's on you and you're using it for close in comms. Second, a dual band Signal Stick for when you want more range, a 2 meter half wave antenna for when you REALLY need to get out, and you can't string up an antenna, and then finally either a roll up J pole or a dipole that you can hang up in a tree or something and REALLY get some range. If you aren't really concerned with the stationary J pole or Dipole setup, then just go dual band stubby, signal stick, and 2 meter half wave.

    • @marctlm3636
      @marctlm3636 Місяць тому

      @@EvanK2EJT I ended up ordering the dual band signal stick after watching your video last night. Which specific smiley stubby would be the next one to get. I’ll get this :-) 2 m then that you recommended. Is there a specific J pole or dipole that you can recommend?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      @@marctlm3636 If you go the Smiley route, you'll need two antennas....one for 2 meter, and one for 70 cm. They're monoband antennas. They're definitely *much* better than the dual band stubby antennas, but not as convenient. I would go with this: www.smileyantenna.com/shop/p/fnw3258zkpt4fld-zrh97
      And this: www.smileyantenna.com/shop/p/regular-duck-aircraft-band-132-136-mhz-89tzw-d8z33-c6nc2-3p5g6-cnfjx

    • @marctlm3636
      @marctlm3636 Місяць тому

      @@EvanK2EJT perfect those are what I have on my cart thank you so much

  • @rickrybacki4145
    @rickrybacki4145 Місяць тому

    Can those antennas work in apartment building? No room here for any other large antenna.. Your help I need, Thanks.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      So any antenna will work indoors, but the signal will be attenuated by the walls. Depending on what the building is made out of, it may be minimal, or it may be like a giant Faraday cage. Being next to a window will help dramatically as well. If you need to penetrate walls, you're going to want the most efficient antenna with the most gain you can find.

  • @stevejette2329
    @stevejette2329 5 днів тому +1

    As a newbie, I must ask ... why does a person have seven handheld radios ? thx

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  5 днів тому

      I have a LOT more than seven LOL. I absolutely don't *need* them all. I could get away with one or two ham HTs and a handful of GMRS radios.

    • @stevejette2329
      @stevejette2329 5 днів тому +1

      @@EvanK2EJT "What were once hobbies have become addictions." ??

  • @timfreeeed
    @timfreeeed Місяць тому

    thanks for sharing all this knowledge! do you have swr charts of the good antennas or is it that kind of irrelevant?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      I don't. SWR isn't an easy thing to measure on an HT antenna (with a few notable exceptions like the 2m half wave or J pole) since YOU are the counterpoise. Just measuring the antenna alone doesn't mean anything, because you're missing the other half of the antenna. I *have* measured the roll up J pole on a Nanovna, and it looks great.

  • @single_cam9199
    @single_cam9199 19 днів тому

    I’m new to this so I got the President ACMR401 Tactical CB Antenna For Randy Handheld Radios it’s 18.5 inches for the president Randy 2 fcc
    This is going to work right? For the cab in my truck I got one of those fire stick off brands that you cut to length for swr but how does that fall into factor for a hand held and pretty sure you can snip this antenna also the radio you can mess with the modulation

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  19 днів тому

      @@single_cam9199 So CB on a handheld radio is going to be a little tricky because a quarter wave antenna will be like 9 feet long. There will need to be a pretty serious loading coil to get the electrical length you need. While it will work, it won't be very efficient as your radiating element of the antenna will be fairly short.

  • @woodsghost9088
    @woodsghost9088 2 місяці тому +1

    My only issue with the Signal Sticks is they get real floppy in cold weather. Unless something changed since 2018. But in nice or warm weather, the Signal Sticks are excellent.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      Yeah, they get limp when it's REALLY cold out. Generally I'll use Smiley antennas in the winter for that exact reason.

    • @woodsghost9088
      @woodsghost9088 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT that is fantastic information. You did a great video. I need to grab some Smilys. It gets pretty cold in my area. I've dealt with the limp antenna a lot.

  • @zanado11
    @zanado11 2 місяці тому

    Great video. I do have a question. I have the VGC radio and the adapter that goes on the radio but looking at amazon the SMA to Male BNC just didn’t look right. Can you suggest where I can ride the proper adapter? Thanks in advance and 73 w8rlp

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      Here are some from Amazon I use that work well: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C36N2V7L/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
      If you want the exact same black one I have on the radio, I got it here: signalstuff.com/product/sma-f-to-bnc-f-adapter/

    • @zanado11
      @zanado11 2 місяці тому

      Thank you for you fast response and suggestions. I opted to order from Signal stuff. Thanks again and continue you videos. I am subscribing. 73

  • @joemarchinski914
    @joemarchinski914 2 місяці тому

    Just found your channel, I am kinda new to radio and have bought a pair of Ailunce HAG1's with extra batteries, chargers, external mic/speakers, ear pieces and Nagoya 771 antennas, they can be unlocked, and also TID H3's with all the same extras and they are factory unlocked for 2 meter and 70 centimeter ham and gmrs and just bought a Radioddity QT80 10,11,12 & 15 meter for my truck but I am looking for a good antenna that will work for 10,11,12 I know 15 will be a different antenna, I have asked other radio you tubers for advice and have been ignored.. I watched dozens of videos with it being used in vehicles with amazing results on all bands but none of them will say what antenna is being used, and they wont give me any advice, almost like newbies are not welcome into the exclusive club...its frustrating, if you have any advice I would greatly appreciate it, sorry for rant, and after watching a few of your videos I did subscribe 👍👍👍 very well presented, Blessed Be to you and your family my brother, oh and being in western Washington state not far from the coast I also have an old school handheld marine radio all north American and international channels, NOAA and channel 16 which is coast guard emergency frequency, and handheld 40 channel old school cb all of my radios are 12 volt ,120 volt charging and the new handhelds are also USB c

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      So here's the long and short of it. No antenna will be resonant on all of those bands unless it's an adjustable antenna (like a screwdriver of some sort like a Tarheel). A CB antenna would be resonant on 11m obviously, and *might* work on 10 and 12, but I have the feeling the SWR will be pretty high. You could get Hamsticks for each band, and swap them out when you want to change bands. That's a pain, but it'd probably be the least expensive option. Most of the mobile antennas you see people running on HF are either mono-band like the Hamsticks, or a screwdriver like a Yaesu ATAS or a Tarheel. The Tarheel would work on 15m too, so that would kill four birds with one stone, but they're EXPENSIVE. www.tarheelantennas.com/

  • @Town101
    @Town101 2 місяці тому

    Been looking for this type of information. But you did not say what makes one antenna good, bad or great???? can you see a great antenna? or do you just have to try it kinda like microphones?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      Honestly, it's a hard thing to measure on an HT. Generally, I look at signal strength and range. That kind of has to be tested. They're all pretty durable (aside from the telescopic ones), so it comes down to efficiency. It *can* be measured, but not easily. I'm pretty much speaking from firsthand experience with all of these antennas. "Good" also depends on your intended use. A 2 meter half wave antenna is GREAT for range, but horrible for hiking around with it attached to your radio. Conversely, the little stubby antennas have abysmal performance, but they're convenient for hiking around with, and work well enough in close quarters.

  • @malenve6vid
    @malenve6vid 2 місяці тому +1

    The Smiley 2 MR EFHW antenna is great.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      Yeah, it really is.

  • @kenlassiter-km8sw
    @kenlassiter-km8sw Місяць тому

    I have the uv-5r, Quansheng uv-k6, and other handhelds. I changed out the stock antenna with the nagoya 15 inch one that was recommended by others. I'm going to order one of the signal sticks. My question is does that antenna work good for vhf, uhf and the 2 meter and 70mm bands? Or do I need to put different antennas on for different bands?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      That antenna (the 19" long one) will cover both the 2m VHF band as well as the 70cm UHF band. I've also used it on GMRS and MURS with no issues at all.

  • @jeremyt1917
    @jeremyt1917 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for the video for us newbies. Whst bnc adapternbrand do you recommend?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      I haven't really found much of a difference in brands if I'm being honest. The ONE exception to that is the adapter I use on the FT5. The only one I've found that fits correctly is the one that Signal Stuff sells. Aside from that, it doesn't really make much of a difference.

  • @michaelhill5822
    @michaelhill5822 Місяць тому

    Hey, is there any chance I could get the name or possibly a link to that black BNC adapter?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      I'll give you a link to both the male and female ones I use:
      Female: signalstuff.com/products/adapt-smaf-bncf/
      Male: signalstuff.com/products/adapt-smam-bncf/

    • @michaelhill5822
      @michaelhill5822 Місяць тому

      @ thank you so much!

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      @@michaelhill5822 Not a problem at all

  • @orbeaorca7047
    @orbeaorca7047 24 дні тому

    Great video, thank you

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  24 дні тому

      Thank you! I appreciate it.

  • @nexthubbins
    @nexthubbins Місяць тому

    ❤❤❤. A little confused here☹️. The Smily has a triband that adjusts for frequency like you show but is only 16.5 in extended. Then they have the 2 meter 1/2 wave that is 36 in long but does not mention adjusting for frequency. And guidance?😅. MFJ website looks up and working but says long ranger is out of stock but you can be on back in stock list. 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      So the tri-band antenna is a quarter wave on 2 meters fully extended (as well as a quarter wave on 70 cm fully collapsed, a quarter wave on 1.25m four sections down, and 5/8 wave on 70 cm with two sections down), while the 2 meter half wave is.....well.....a half wavelength lol. The 2 meter halfwave is a mono band antenna. It *only* works on 2 meters, and *only* works fully extended. The tri-band works on 2m, 1.25m, and 70cm, depending on how long you have it adjusted. They can't really be compared though. The 2 meter half wave antenna is going to be the most efficient antenna you can get for your HT, so if it's range you're after, that's the antenna you want.

  • @nine7295
    @nine7295 2 місяці тому

    Signal Stick is a 5/8 wave on 70cm? Did i hear that right?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      Sorry, I misspoke. They're 3/4 wave, not 5/8 wave. I'm not sure why I said that. I *know* they're 3/4 wave, but for some reason my brain was telling me 5/8 that day.

  • @Dap8998
    @Dap8998 2 місяці тому

    Saturday I was at Iona visiting my daughter. I received a bunch of Ham Alerts about you being at Sugar Hill. RBN had you at 24wpm. If I were home I would have made the attempt to get in touch. KE2CQF,73

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      Heck yeah, I'd appreciate the contact!

  • @BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp
    @BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp Місяць тому +1

    An issue about "resonance" that I cannot understand is why 5/8th of an inch antenna wire can resonate. Half or quarter wavelengths make sense - but anything in between is not logical to me.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      This might help some: practicalantennas.com/designs/verticals/5eights/#:~:text=The%205%2F8%20wave%20antenna%20has%20a%20bit%20more%20conductor,the%20radiation%20at%20the%20horizon.

  • @69Saluki
    @69Saluki 2 місяці тому

    Does what you went over apply to an IC-705? Or would you have a recommendation on attennas for range, height, general use?

    • @oliverallen5324
      @oliverallen5324 2 місяці тому

      yeah man it'll work on the 705. It's essentially a giant handtalkie.

    • @69Saluki
      @69Saluki 2 місяці тому

      I’m new and getting into this. Not totally green, but… I’m going to watch some more of your videos as I’m in the middle of setting up a 705 using Rt systems programming software, and a couple of baofang uv5rs for disaster use and on the farm. Would you mind if I had a couple more questions?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      That's an excellent question. On my IC-705 I have used a full length Signal Stick with a 19ish inch counterpoise attached to the ground lug on the side of the radio for 2m, and a 7ish inch long one for 70cm. Without the counterpoise, your SWR will be crazy high. With the counterpoise, it's below 1.5:1, and works remarkably well. I use a 90 degree BNC adapter to get the antenna to stand up straight. The BEST VHF/UHF antenna I have for the 705 is that roll up J pole. That's currently attached to my 705, which I use as my base station VHF/UHF radio. That's right around a 1:1 SWR across most of the band, and it works fantastic.

  • @TSGEnt
    @TSGEnt Місяць тому

    0:23 beautiful view by the way.

  • @rbmwiv
    @rbmwiv 27 днів тому

    Smilies are all I have on my HTs. Also switched to bnc about a year ago and try to talk all my radio friends to do the same.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  27 днів тому +1

      Excellent choices all around!

    • @rbmwiv
      @rbmwiv 27 днів тому

      @ they certainly are. After I tried one I had to get a few more.

  • @sanjuan4942
    @sanjuan4942 Місяць тому

    Great stuff keep doing it!

  • @ATR_Mid-TN-WX
    @ATR_Mid-TN-WX 2 місяці тому

    Excellent video. A lot of good Information now I have to spend money on 1/2 2m antenna lol. On a serious note. Do you know of a ht antenna that will handle 25wTts? I’m putting a anytone 25watt dual band radio in a backpack for SAR. Needing an antenna I can leave on the radio while it’s in the pack. A collapsible would be best but if not I will manage. Thank you for input K4YAG

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      The Signal Stick antennas are good to 100W with a 50% duty cycle, or 50W on 100% duty cycle like digital.

    • @ATR_Mid-TN-WX
      @ATR_Mid-TN-WX 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT just a regular signal stick? I have the glow in dark one to be precise? Will handle the 50watts as well?

    • @ATR_Mid-TN-WX
      @ATR_Mid-TN-WX 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT I’m setting up a chest rig with a 8ah battery and a 25watt dual band radio. What do your recommend on distance to keep the antenna away from your head or does that matter?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      @@ATR_Mid-TN-WX Yep, just a regular old Signal Stick will handle 100w at 50% duty cycle (CW), and 50w at 100% duty cycle (digital). Voice is a lower duty cycle than either of those, so you're good to go and then some. Those numbers are straight from the Signal Stick webpage.

    • @ATR_Mid-TN-WX
      @ATR_Mid-TN-WX 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT thank you sir. I already have my antenna. What about the antenna near my head? I know the old timers say it’s bad. If so how far away do I need to keep the antenna away from my head? I’m running this as a chest rig with 8ah battery and dual band 25watt radio.

  • @daniellbrinneman
    @daniellbrinneman 2 місяці тому

    What is the coax spec that you are using with your J-pole 400 ohm dual bander?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      The J pole is RG-58. It comes attached to the antenna directly from N9TAX. Not the greatest coax as far as loss is concerned, but it's small and light enough it packs easily, and the run is so short the loss is minimized.

    • @daniellbrinneman
      @daniellbrinneman 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT N9TAX who’s on eBay? Have you tried RG-8X? It’s smaller than RG-58 and lossless compared with RG-58.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      @@daniellbrinneman Yes, the same N9TAX. His antennas work great. I've used RG-8X as well. I run ABR 218XATC on my shack antenna, as well as my 100w field setups.

    • @daniellbrinneman
      @daniellbrinneman 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT Thank you.

    • @daniellbrinneman
      @daniellbrinneman Місяць тому

      @@EvanK2EJT I decided finally to go with a dual bander from N9TAX.

  • @NJtoAzMountainBiker
    @NJtoAzMountainBiker 2 місяці тому

    Do you loose any output with the connectors.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      Probably a little bit. I've never actually measured it, but there is likely some loss. If you were concerned about it, just run the correct SMA connector on the antenna and that eliminates that possible loss. I just run the BNC because it keeps the SMA jack on the radio safe, and makes swapping antennas easier. Thanks for watching!

    • @NJtoAzMountainBiker
      @NJtoAzMountainBiker 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT I was curious if you noticed anything. It does make it easier to swap around to which I see is more than I thought.
      Cheaper to replace the connector then having the sma jack replaced\ soldered.

  • @marcusalancate1782
    @marcusalancate1782 Місяць тому

    Very very informative

  • @phonicbeast302
    @phonicbeast302 Місяць тому

    So if you're making a trip somewhere, you have to find the repeaters you'll be near online and program them in the radio before you go

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Yeah, that's generally what I do. Icom radios will actually show you the repeaters based on your GPS coordinates, which is pretty awesome.

  • @MultiTestPage
    @MultiTestPage Місяць тому

    Amazing video!

  • @flipside21
    @flipside21 2 місяці тому

    What's that tan unit?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      That's an VGC VR-N76. The Btech UV-Pro and Radioddity GA-5WB are also the same radio. The VGC radios come in a pile of colors including that coyote tan.

    • @flipside21
      @flipside21 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT thanks! How do you find it stacks up to the lineup?

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      @@flipside21 I'll be honest, it's probably my favorite HT currently. The Yaesu FT5 is a more capable radio, and the receiver is better, but it's more than twice as expensive so it should be a better radio. The VGC is a great package. USB-C, APRS, GPS, IP67, full KISS TNC capabilities, and the app works great. Overall I really like the radio.

    • @flipside21
      @flipside21 2 місяці тому

      @@EvanK2EJT sounds like a full-featured unit. Thanks for taking the time to give me the scoop.

  • @19TC504
    @19TC504 2 місяці тому

    nice video,but have to say,i have a few baofengs and quansheng radio,s i talk over 30km with stock antenna,s on 433.200(thats free band here) i have to say the stations i talk to are home or mobile but still :)

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      I'm not saying the stock antennas DON'T work, but they're far from great. A. Good antenna can make the difference between getting through and not getting through

  • @theidiotgamer4306
    @theidiotgamer4306 10 днів тому

    God i have change the antenna on my old baofeng uv82 (the first one) more than 5.000 times and it still working perfectly fine! Sma connector can last forever if you change antennas carefully!!!

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  10 днів тому

      They can.....I've had them fail on me before though.

    • @theidiotgamer4306
      @theidiotgamer4306 10 днів тому

      @EvanK2EJT i change antennas more than 10 times the day on all my radios... still no problem with any of them!!!

  • @ranchosinnombreannjimmy8427
    @ranchosinnombreannjimmy8427 Місяць тому

    great info

  • @MourningConstitution
    @MourningConstitution 2 місяці тому

    Thanks!

  • @gimpyoldhunter
    @gimpyoldhunter Місяць тому

    Oddly enough I just received my tech license and I live in NY and my call sign is only 1 letter away from yours.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      Awesome!

    • @gimpyoldhunter
      @gimpyoldhunter Місяць тому

      @ Mine is Kilo Echo Two Echo Juliet Tango . They just added a letter

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      @gimpyoldhunter LOL yeah, I figured that was the case and looked you up on QRZ to confirm

  • @lynneftw
    @lynneftw Місяць тому

    I replaced my uv-5r rubber duck with a Signal Stick super elastic antenna 👍

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      Definitely a wise choice!

  • @moparman8254
    @moparman8254 Місяць тому

    u cant beat a 5/8 th wave bace station like a j pole or a slim Jim & a 45-80 watt mobile radio i a emergancy situation it will help u to get out way farther ifu r useing a ht only then a 1/2 wave antenna

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому

      That's absolutely true. Definitely less portable though lol.

  • @piNokiaa
    @piNokiaa Місяць тому

    Retevis ra89 top 💪 tyt uv58 🤜

  • @CMDR_Shokwave
    @CMDR_Shokwave 2 місяці тому +1

    More height = more fars.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому

      This is 1000% the case

  • @antenas
    @antenas Місяць тому +1

    32 minutos para dizer aos que gostam de antenas bonitas que é melhor ter antenas com ganho 😂😂😂😂

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  Місяць тому +1

      LOL the people I'm gearing these videos towards have no idea what gain is

  • @Anon-q2x
    @Anon-q2x 2 місяці тому

    Instructions unclear. Broke Baofeng.

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  2 місяці тому +1

      Throw Baofeng in garbage. Buy new radio lol (seriously though, I hope you didn't actually break your radio... I'm assuming this was a joke)

  • @georgealvarez1612
    @georgealvarez1612 20 днів тому

    Did you seem to contradict yourself on antennas all the time you know just stick with one they all do the same thing I don't care what anybody says they all do the same thing they all transmitted and they all receive you know you need to make up your mind you know cause you confuse people

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  20 днів тому

      I'm not sure what you mean. Yes, they all transmit and receive..........but they don't all transmit and receive as well as each other. Some are *VASTLY* better than others

  • @jeremymccook742
    @jeremymccook742 2 місяці тому

    I grew up in Otsego County, lived in Broome for a few years. I went to Broome Community College and worked at Wilson hospital in Johnson City. I live in Florida now. Got my tech in 2014, general in 2016. km4bxq.

  • @andrewryan9297
    @andrewryan9297 15 днів тому

    I picked up a bunch of signal sticks to add into my radio box a while ago. I love the things.
    I’m up in NY as well, buddy. OC. 🫡

    • @EvanK2EJT
      @EvanK2EJT  15 днів тому

      @@andrewryan9297 nice to see another New Yorker in the comments! Yeah, signal sticks are awesome antennas. They're my go-to for pretty much everything