This has become my go to antenna for my G90. First time out grabbed WA state from Kentucky on 20watts sloping in a tree. Dominican Republic today sloping on a 20ft fishing rod.
Wow that’s even harder to build than I imagined! Looks like a really fun build though. I think we’re gonna start seeing a lot of these out in the wild.
Great build - a perfect SIP project (great tip on connecting the female connector to work as an added heat sink!) I’m good with the fine soldering skills - just need a glass to see it better now... 👍🏼73
I've been using this antenna for 6 months now. It is definitely my "go-to" antenna for my G90. DX from Kentucky with Slovenia, France, Spain, Belgium, Scotland, England, Ireland, Brazil, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Canada, and after a QSO with Alaska today, 48 of 50 states. Great piece of kit!!!
Just hit AK (POTA K-0045) SSB from Kentucky with only 10W. Dropped my power to 5W and called him back, "KO4HZH, I already have you in my log" Love this antenna.
I have built one, will give a try in a couple of days, very fiddly to build, great fun chasing the bnc around the table with the soldering iron. Will have to get one of those helping hands thingys.
Hi, Right done some analyzing this morning using EU1KY's antenna analyzer WITHOUT ATU :) and heres the results: 160M 1.2 80M 1.0 60M 1.0 40M 1.5 30M 1.2 17M 1999 very high ok with ATU 15M and 12M same as 17M 10M 6.0 6M 1.5 And because I was bored or maybe cabin fever (not sure which) 4M 10.0 2M 2.4 70cm 1.6 I think I can say I'm happy, and thanks for showing us how to build, it fits in my MCHF go bag nicely :D
A friend of mine built one for me- it works awesome with the KX2 / tuner. I just watched the video because I plan to try to make one for another OM. This is one of my favorite antenna's with the the KX2 if you have a tree.
Thanks Adam!!!! I was really wanting to see how you made this. When Mike, K8MRD showed that antenna on his POTA activation I wanted one! Now to get the parts to try my hand and building one. Again thanks!! 73 Juddie WD8WV
So, with your instructions, I just finished building and testing this antenna. I'd be lying if I said I had fun building it! Hi. I did have fun testing it out though! This is a hot antenna.... My KX3 tuned it to nothing higher than an swr of 1.1:1. There's a contest this weekend which was perfect for testing it out on air. Great receive and good signal reports (ignoring the 599 everyone receives in a contest). All this given I only had it up 7' in the air. My only alteration was I used hot glue in place of expoxy as I was out of expoxy and I was too cheap and lazy to go buy some. Thanks for all the work you went to producing this video. 73 de Brent VA3YG
I love this. It was a tough job to get one together but the end result is so compact and neat that I'm just amazed. Hooked up 41' radiating element and 17' counterpoise. Threw the radiating element out the window and to our balcony. Counterpoise on the floor. 0.5 watts WSPR hit Hawaii, East coast and Florida from my QTH near Seattle with just a few transmissions. I guess the package is good for epoxy. But I have to say that I would have given up with the soldering unless I knew it is doable. Not an easy task but definitely worth it if building stuff is your thing.
I just built one! And it works! Let me say, heed Adam's advice when it comes to connecting a female connector to the connector while you're soldering. I got a bit hasty and ruined my first one by melting the center insulator. A #43 mix toroid was all I had but it works just fine.
I did the exact same thing.. threw on a BNC right angle to PL259 and another SO259 adapter on top of that just to be safe, turned out much better. Thanks Adam!
Adam Thank you for making your antenna matching unit into a kit. I'm glad the kit doesn't require grinding and reshaping the BNC connector. I plan on building my kit as a 9:1 for my G90. You suggested on Ham Radio Crash Course adding a FT82-43 toroid over the toroid in the kit to handle the G90 full 20 Watts output. I rewatched this video to see how you handled the trifilar winds. Wish me luck! I'm waiting for the 2mm bullet connectors I ordered to arrive so I can attach the radiating element and counter poise. I'll be ready to rock some portable QSO's! 73 AB1OP
Awesome! You may also need a bit longer piece of wire, and you will definitely need some 1" heat shrink. You may be able to get away with the included wire if you only do 6 trifilar turns. If you run out and need some extra, fire me an email and I'll drop some in an envelope for ya.
@@K6ARK Thank Adam, I think I'm ok for mag wire I got some left over from other radio projects (BITX40, etc). I got a selection of heat shrink tubes on order I made sure there were 1" & 1.25" HS tubes included.
Thanks Brad, it's a great little antenna. Every antenna is a trade-off and you lose a little performance for multi-band versatility, but not much. This is my go-to antenna for the KX2.
Just found this video. Same deal here 61 mix for my 9:1 ununs have been my favorite so far. I have a bunch of 3D printed boxes to hold them. I really like this approach. My BNC connectors should be arriving in a few days now. I can make one up for my 59’ wire and one for an EFHW as well. Thanks.
Productize that thing and it'll sell like HOTCAKES! If there's one thing I might suggest, is the addition of a vice or helping hands. How your fingertips aren't blown away after coming under fire, rotating blades, and iron tips is beyond me!
I think it would, but I'm not sure it's mass-produceable at a reasonable price. I work too much to make and sell them myself - the time it takes to make them isn't worth it for me. If any manufacturers want to make it happen, I'm all ears.
K6ARK Portable Radio I wouldn’t be surprised if MFJ has new antenna announcement like....tomorrow haha. Or if we start seeing it on amazon. I wish I could make a run on some toroids but I doubt amidon will be in the office this week.
@@N0SSC, yah, I just ordered a ton of them in case my work actually gets shut down. The Dremel wheel is a diamond blade - no cut hazard. And my climber fingers are pretty heat resistant at this point. Lol.
Just made this today, a great rainy day project. Very challenging and so far quite rewarding.... I will be taking this out for a spin this week... 73 de KD2TJU!
Hey... just wondering if you have any photos or videos you can point me to that show how you lash that 4’ mast to your backpack... I keep trying to sneak a peek at it in your videos. I have the green version of the jackite pole. I also have the Sota Beams travel mast... it’s “ok” but very light duty compared to the jackite, it’s only strong suit is it’s small size from what I can tell... anyways, if that’s something you already have on your channel, I’m sure I’ll come across it, I’m going through all your videos, I just recently became a big fan, looking for a tiny packable antenna, you’re the guy apparently!
I'll find a picture for you... I typically use either the compression straps in the side, or the ice tool loop and holder. I use the cord winding clip on the pole to keep it from sliding down and out. Alternatively, you can wind a few wraps of cord and whip finish and glue or tape it into place where you want it to hang up on the straps and not slide through. Hope that helps...
@@K6ARK sorta what I'm coming up with... I'm toying with the idea of wrapping the whole outside of the mast with some really large heatshrink to give it some more "grip". All of my current backpacks don't have any ice axe loops, and the compression straps are on the sides, which puts the load out of balance. I had hoped the Sota Beam mast would solve it, but i'm really disappointed in how thin it is, and I don't think it will take any kind of abuse. Anyways... thanks for the reply, and keep up the great work with the channel, I originally got my ham license to transmit from the Adirondack Mountains (couple hours from me.. I have 39 of the 46 High Peaks so far) and I've spent the better part of this year getting my gear ready and trying out POTA. And your channel has been a great help, and very inspirational, Next week I will likely try the trapped endfed. 73 de KD2TJU
I figured out and fixed the amzon shopping list: www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/249MBKSZIE5K8?ref_=wl_share Use the 9:1 unun wiring diagram to ensure you connect the right ends to ground and radiating elements. The video makes it look backwards as I changed the position of the ends of the wires before soldering.
tonight i have built one on 140-61 using 1mm copper wire so i can use a little more power vna test in to 450 load i get 1.8mhz is swr 1:4 and at 30mhz swr is 1:4 so good to use on all the hf bands
I’d try it but don’t have the tools to make one myself. Maybe you could make them then sell them to other hams? Just a thought and if so where could I purchase one? Thanks 73..Lonnie K5HHH.
Love this antenna, ABSOLUTE SIMPLE ELEGANCE! I also like how you did the wind with a single wire. I know power isn't the point of this antenna but anyone know how much power it could take? I'd like to make a 100W version of this and wondering what if any changes would be required? Thinking FT-891. Heavier Mag wire? Would using a slightly bigger toroid matter? -73
Yes, you'd definitely need a bigger toroid. I'd suggest building it in a small project box, as you probably won't be running it directly off the side of a tuner (but maybe?).
41 ft is sufficient to cover 40 m and is very portable. You can certainly gain more performance and lower band operation with longer wires. 71 ft is a great non-resonant that will also easily tune up on, and cover, 80 m as well. If you've got the space, go even longer.
@@K6ARK Are you builds more for CW with a side of SSB? I think I made a mistake somewhere, the SWR is off the charts both for CW and SSB. What could I have done incorrectly, with the center wire inside the toroid to the antenna, the twisted to the BNC center point and the outer wire to the BNC body and Counterpoise. When I touch the outer BNC body or Toroid, the SWR drops considerably. Thanks for the learning opportunity!
Email me more info and I may be able to help figure out what's up. Include which build you did (EFHW or EFRW), wire lengths, and a screen shot of the SWR plot across the ham bands.
Great job! I'm a fan of EFHW so can't wait for that version. Going to build this too just for the laughs. Just out of curiosity, which core are you using for the EFHW version. Could put in the order already ;-) 73 de W7GE
Great! Yeah, need to do a bit of research how to get the most out of the tiny size. At QTH I use 3x 240-52's. But not planning to carry that transformer around ;-)
Yep, I'm limited to 10W anyway. Just built room to grow to QTH, so that no need to redo the antenna if I get an amp later. Thanks again for the great video and answers!
Just a heads up.... I bought the BNTECHGO 26ga PVC jacket wire from Amazon and it did not fit into the BNC solder window BNC connectors. Just a little too large. I hae since ordered Polysheath from Amateur Radio Supply. We'll see how well it fits. 73 de K4EES
Adam, I have used and reccomended this antenna to many new potable ops. I have always connected directly to the rig as randoms and coax tend to not mix well. An op in Idaho asked about using coax. I told him my take and that low power he may get away with a coil of coax and a few ferrite beads right at the antenna may help. What is your take on coax on the random with a KX2? TNX 72S K7ULM
You know, I have almost never used coax with the random wire on the KX2. 99% of the time I directly attach it to the radio. The only time I have used coax is when I'm operating in a tent or other shelter and need to get the feed point outside. In those cases, I used a short length of RG-174 wound through a FT114-43 toroid about 6 or 8 turns, and then terminated with a BNC to attach to the feed point. It worked well enough, but I suspect losses were slightly greater. Although not the most efficient antenna around, this thing can't be beat for all-band simplicity at the push of a button. Even so, I've worked plenty of DX with it. My best ever S2S contact was with ZL4RA who was using one of these antennas on a KX2 at his end. 🤷♂️
@@K6ARK Thanks Adam, that was basically my reply as well. I have used a few ferrite beads on a few Coils of the 174 coax. 20 ft coax running to the tent in elk camp contacted HI so acceptable losses. TNX FB ES 72s
ok i got one built with a 450 ohm dummy load on my nano vna i see swr at 1.5mhz is 1:1.3 at 1,8 mhz 1:1.1 up to 14mhz 1:5 at 23mhz 1:97 at 30mhz 2:3 so 50-43 should be good for the low bands i got to order some 50-61 and build a second one chris
Thanks for the video, Adam! As soon as I saw Mike's K8MRD video featuring this antenna, I knew I had to try building it. I have all of the parts ordered - and now have the time. 🤷🏻♂️ I'm no expert, but... 24 toroids to practice wrapping, and 10 BNC connectors to fiddle with... Why not give it a go? Thanks again! 73 KJ7LLX
A fat solder tip and a hot iron are helpful for the ground, and a very thin tip with a bit less heat for the center conductor. Good luck and let me know if you need any tips or help.
Just a question about assembly. Do you need to loop the radiating element connection wire back around the outside then up through the knurled tube. Would it not be easier to just chop all of that part off and give yourself more room and easier access to the center connector? You would be getting rid of the metal right in the center of the toroid and allowing yourself to not have to do any fiddly threading of wire. It looks as though the tube just acts as a convenient anchor. Or is there a technical point that I am missing? Does it have to do with impedance or one of the other 1001 things that I don't know about?
@@K6ARK Thank you for the reply. I tried building one of these using a non solder type connector. I used the post that crimps around the braid to hold the toroid ( which slipped around it perfectly) and then wrapped around the toroid AND the crimp part of the post. No idea whether it works or not since I don't have a license yet and can't even use it. Wrapping around the metal will probably throw the whole thing off, but I wanted to try it as a concept.
i never had a Problem to tune a random wire on my KX2 without any Balun.... The Tuner is so good, just put the Wire on a BNC Banana Plug and it workds great .. but anyway nice work
Yes, it can generally do it. Tuner losses are going to be more significant without the 9:1, and depending on the lengths of wire used, you may struggle to tune certain bands. The 9:1 ensures all bands will tune 1:1.
At 4:03 in your "How small can you go?" video , the 9:1 on the BNC shows a capacitor. This video has no capacitor. Which do you find works better? Why did you drop it out for this latest build. Thanks K7AOZ
Good evening, I would like to open the station in 11m. In Romania we use the CB band for free, on trucks. I can't use xiegu x5105 in 11m. Can you help me with this problem?
That would not be legal in the United States. I am not familiar enough with radio transmission regulations in Romania. I also do not know what would be required to modify the Xiegu for those frequencies if it is legal.
Ron, I've used both, and in the kits i put together, i actually use 26 ga. so take your pick. Larger 24 ga wire may be slightly more efficient, but wont fit quite as many turns in the same size toroid. If youre interested in a couple of kits, look me up of QRZ and send me an email.
Being curious....what would the maximum power be that you can put on this antenna? I am worried a g90's 20W might be a little too much seeing as this is built for lower powered units.
@@K6ARK awesome. Thank you! I might just play around at lower power settings for now. It is a real pita to get quality toroid cores here in South Africa. Basically got to import from the US or europe, so I will be adding a few of those on my wishlist. Quite enjoyed building this antenna, even the frustrating, can't solder in tight spaces to save your life bit. Learnt a lot in the process as well. Looking forward to trying out a lot more of your awesome antennas.
Yes, I imagine getting parts there is tough. I built some kits which include a PCB making assembly easier. If you have more 50 size toroids, you could also stack two or three to see how that improves power handling. Monitor SWR during operation, and periodically check the temperature of the toroids. If they get very hot to the touch or your SWR climb, you may be pushing them too hard.
@@K6ARK I will definitely try to get some of those. I can however get some 50-43's in the meantime. Stacking a couole of those should do a bit better on 20w? I finished the build with the 50-61, 71ft radiator and 17ft counterpoise....my little radio has never been more alive. Listened in on 40m last night with the max antenna height about 3 or 4m above ground.....loads of dx stations audible. This little anyenna has made me rethink the permanent efhw at home......time for some serious antenna R&R at home.....
@@flipster7285 you can definitely stack toroids for more power handling - even more than two if you want. I would suggest trying two stacked, operate for a while, and see if they get warm or hot to the touch after transmitting for a while at 20w. If they stay cool enough to touch, you should be good to go.
Hey Terry, I know this is an old comment but figured I would reply for anyone else who might have the same question. The only problem with 20awg is that it probably won't fit through the center of the BNC adapter. I ended up using 22awg silicone from BNTECHGO on Amazon and it fits pretty snug (great wire and manufacturer by the way). 73
Both will work. I typically use 24 ga with this antenna to minimize losses in the transformer. The EFHW transformer build tends to run out of space with 24 ga, so the 28 ga wire is better for that one. If you want one spool of wire that will work for both builds, go with 28 ga.
Fantasatic build. I will make a run at it. I am hoping to do something like this for resinant antennas to use without tuners. These are great, the BNC connector is the trick for sure. Thanks for sharing.
Yes! I make a similar EFHW matching unit that looks identical except without a counterpoise. A SMD 100pf capacitor is hidden inside, and the unun is about 64:1. I make some tiny traps so it's good on 20/30/40m for use with an MTR3B
@@K6ARK That is exactly what I need. I have a 40m and 20m QCX radios from QRP Labs. Receive is great on them and I want high efficiency resonant antennas for when we are super remote. Not a ton of hams out here so good strong signals and receive is the goal for QRP. Your antennas look great. I built a tuner from QRPGUYS that would probably handle the random wire but with single band radios I want to maximize the antenna. Your work is great and inspiring. Thanks K7ULM
For those of you (like me!) whose eyes have slightly gone south on them, whose fingers have grown a wee bit too fat and shaky and who may wish to keep the cussing to a minimum...but...yet still wish to put one of these fantastic non coax needing antennas into their portable pack...I have come up with an alternate method and a fairly easy way to wind up one that seems to work just as well....It is not as pretty, nor as cool as Adam's but so far its working well for me! 73 de Jim K2MIJ -> P.S. I just tied the unun to the BNC adapter with some dental floss! ;-) ua-cam.com/video/qZfcylIhMOc/v-deo.html
Here's the Amazon link to the "solder window" BNC. I finally have all the parts and hope to start build tomorrow. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WQ4PK9E/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Have you tried using hot glue instead of epoxy? You can pretty readily remove hot glue with IPA. If hot glue doesn't work, you just didn't use enough. LOL.
This has become my go to antenna for my G90. First time out grabbed WA state from Kentucky on 20watts sloping in a tree. Dominican Republic today sloping on a 20ft fishing rod.
Just saw the vid with Mike. That rocked. He was kicking butt with 5 watts. Very impressive antenna performance!!!
Parts ordered. Hope they get here before my old eyes give out...
I've worked New Zealand multiple times with this mounted to my KX2. It rocks!
Wow that’s even harder to build than I imagined! Looks like a really fun build though. I think we’re gonna start seeing a lot of these out in the wild.
Dude, you don't even know. I edited out the cursing and do-overs.
K6ARK Portable Radio Hahahaha. Yeah I have to do that sometimes too.
Great build - a perfect SIP project (great tip on connecting the female connector to work as an added heat sink!) I’m good with the fine soldering skills - just need a glass to see it better now... 👍🏼73
@K6ARK Portable Radio is there a trick to pulling up the Amazon parts list? When I try, it's empty.
I am ordering the stuff today Mike!!! I want to build this. Thanks for airing the one he sent you!! Juddie WD8WV
I've been using this antenna for 6 months now. It is definitely my "go-to" antenna for my G90. DX from Kentucky with Slovenia, France, Spain, Belgium, Scotland, England, Ireland, Brazil, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Canada, and after a QSO with Alaska today, 48 of 50 states. Great piece of kit!!!
Just hit AK (POTA K-0045) SSB from Kentucky with only 10W. Dropped my power to 5W and called him back, "KO4HZH, I already have you in my log"
Love this antenna.
I have built one, will give a try in a couple of days, very fiddly to build, great fun chasing the bnc around the table with the soldering iron. Will have to get one of those helping hands thingys.
Hi, Right done some analyzing this morning using EU1KY's antenna analyzer WITHOUT ATU :) and heres the results:
160M 1.2
80M 1.0
60M 1.0
40M 1.5
30M 1.2
17M 1999 very high ok with ATU
15M and 12M same as 17M
10M 6.0
6M 1.5
And because I was bored or maybe cabin fever (not sure which)
4M 10.0
2M 2.4
70cm 1.6
I think I can say I'm happy, and thanks for showing us how to build, it fits in my MCHF go bag nicely :D
A friend of mine built one for me- it works awesome with the KX2 / tuner. I just watched the video because I plan to try to make one for another OM. This is one of my favorite antenna's with the the KX2 if you have a tree.
Thanks Adam!!!! I was really wanting to see how you made this. When Mike, K8MRD showed that antenna on his POTA activation I wanted one! Now to get the parts to try my hand and building one. Again thanks!! 73 Juddie WD8WV
thank you for the shopping list, beyond helpful.
Remind me not to drink a bunch of coffee before attempting....that is some precision.
So you noticed my shaking hands 😂. This is definitely a no-coffee build!
So, with your instructions, I just finished building and testing this antenna. I'd be lying if I said I had fun building it! Hi. I did have fun testing it out though! This is a hot antenna.... My KX3 tuned it to nothing higher than an swr of 1.1:1. There's a contest this weekend which was perfect for testing it out on air. Great receive and good signal reports (ignoring the 599 everyone receives in a contest). All this given I only had it up 7' in the air. My only alteration was I used hot glue in place of expoxy as I was out of expoxy and I was too cheap and lazy to go buy some. Thanks for all the work you went to producing this video. 73 de Brent VA3YG
I love this. It was a tough job to get one together but the end result is so compact and neat that I'm just amazed. Hooked up 41' radiating element and 17' counterpoise. Threw the radiating element out the window and to our balcony. Counterpoise on the floor. 0.5 watts WSPR hit Hawaii, East coast and Florida from my QTH near Seattle with just a few transmissions. I guess the package is good for epoxy. But I have to say that I would have given up with the soldering unless I knew it is doable. Not an easy task but definitely worth it if building stuff is your thing.
Finished testing mine today! Once the WX gets better I'll bring it out on a summit!
I just built one! And it works! Let me say, heed Adam's advice when it comes to connecting a female connector to the connector while you're soldering. I got a bit hasty and ruined my first one by melting the center insulator. A #43 mix toroid was all I had but it works just fine.
Don't ask how many I've ruined that way... 😬😂
I did the exact same thing.. threw on a BNC right angle to PL259 and another SO259 adapter on top of that just to be safe, turned out much better. Thanks Adam!
Adam Thank you for making your antenna matching unit into a kit. I'm glad the kit doesn't require grinding and reshaping the BNC connector.
I plan on building my kit as a 9:1 for my G90. You suggested on Ham Radio Crash Course adding a FT82-43 toroid over the toroid in the kit to handle the G90 full 20 Watts output.
I rewatched this video to see how you handled the trifilar winds. Wish me luck!
I'm waiting for the 2mm bullet connectors I ordered to arrive so I can attach the radiating element and counter poise. I'll be ready to rock some portable QSO's! 73 AB1OP
Awesome! You may also need a bit longer piece of wire, and you will definitely need some 1" heat shrink. You may be able to get away with the included wire if you only do 6 trifilar turns. If you run out and need some extra, fire me an email and I'll drop some in an envelope for ya.
@@K6ARK Thank Adam, I think I'm ok for mag wire I got some left over from other radio projects (BITX40, etc). I got a selection of heat shrink tubes on order I made sure there were 1" & 1.25" HS tubes included.
Very precise building but so neat! Great job on this build! 73
Thanks Brad, it's a great little antenna. Every antenna is a trade-off and you lose a little performance for multi-band versatility, but not much. This is my go-to antenna for the KX2.
@@K6ARK Yeah I definitely see that! That thing worked like a charm for Mike. If I had one of those radios I wouldn't mind it either. haha
Just found this video. Same deal here 61 mix for my 9:1 ununs have been my favorite so far. I have a bunch of 3D printed boxes to hold them. I really like this approach. My BNC connectors should be arriving in a few days now. I can make one up for my 59’ wire and one for an EFHW as well. Thanks.
Productize that thing and it'll sell like HOTCAKES!
If there's one thing I might suggest, is the addition of a vice or helping hands. How your fingertips aren't blown away after coming under fire, rotating blades, and iron tips is beyond me!
I think it would, but I'm not sure it's mass-produceable at a reasonable price. I work too much to make and sell them myself - the time it takes to make them isn't worth it for me. If any manufacturers want to make it happen, I'm all ears.
K6ARK Portable Radio I wouldn’t be surprised if MFJ has new antenna announcement like....tomorrow haha. Or if we start seeing it on amazon.
I wish I could make a run on some toroids but I doubt amidon will be in the office this week.
@@N0SSC, yah, I just ordered a ton of them in case my work actually gets shut down. The Dremel wheel is a diamond blade - no cut hazard. And my climber fingers are pretty heat resistant at this point. Lol.
Obviously not afflicted with essential tremor ;-) Which is why all my antenna stuff is larger . . .
Just made this today, a great rainy day project. Very challenging and so far quite rewarding.... I will be taking this out for a spin this week... 73 de KD2TJU!
Hey... just wondering if you have any photos or videos you can point me to that show how you lash that 4’ mast to your backpack... I keep trying to sneak a peek at it in your videos. I have the green version of the jackite pole. I also have the Sota Beams travel mast... it’s “ok” but very light duty compared to the jackite, it’s only strong suit is it’s small size from what I can tell... anyways, if that’s something you already have on your channel, I’m sure I’ll come across it, I’m going through all your videos, I just recently became a big fan, looking for a tiny packable antenna, you’re the guy apparently!
I'll find a picture for you...
I typically use either the compression straps in the side, or the ice tool loop and holder. I use the cord winding clip on the pole to keep it from sliding down and out. Alternatively, you can wind a few wraps of cord and whip finish and glue or tape it into place where you want it to hang up on the straps and not slide through. Hope that helps...
@@K6ARK sorta what I'm coming up with... I'm toying with the idea of wrapping the whole outside of the mast with some really large heatshrink to give it some more "grip". All of my current backpacks don't have any ice axe loops, and the compression straps are on the sides, which puts the load out of balance. I had hoped the Sota Beam mast would solve it, but i'm really disappointed in how thin it is, and I don't think it will take any kind of abuse. Anyways... thanks for the reply, and keep up the great work with the channel, I originally got my ham license to transmit from the Adirondack Mountains (couple hours from me.. I have 39 of the 46 High Peaks so far) and I've spent the better part of this year getting my gear ready and trying out POTA. And your channel has been a great help, and very inspirational, Next week I will likely try the trapped endfed. 73 de KD2TJU
I figured out and fixed the amzon shopping list: www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/249MBKSZIE5K8?ref_=wl_share
Use the 9:1 unun wiring diagram to ensure you connect the right ends to ground and radiating elements. The video makes it look backwards as I changed the position of the ends of the wires before soldering.
Very impressed with this Aerial wow
Well done Adam. I need to buy a KX2/3 so I can build and use it 😬
EFHW matching unit coming next...
Such an awesome little antenna!
I found my new SOTA antenna. Thanks for sharing Adam. I look forward to seeing your other antenna builds. 73, kf7zvl
As we say in Louisiana, U Da Man. Thanks!
tonight i have built one on 140-61 using 1mm copper wire so i can use a little more power vna test in to 450 load i get 1.8mhz is swr 1:4 and at 30mhz swr is 1:4 so good to use on all the hf bands
I’d try it but don’t have the tools to make one myself. Maybe you could make them then sell them to other hams? Just a thought and if so where could I purchase one? Thanks 73..Lonnie K5HHH.
Love this antenna, ABSOLUTE SIMPLE ELEGANCE! I also like how you did the wind with a single wire. I know power isn't the point of this antenna but anyone know how much power it could take? I'd like to make a 100W version of this and wondering what if any changes would be required? Thinking FT-891. Heavier Mag wire? Would using a slightly bigger toroid matter? -73
Yes, you'd definitely need a bigger toroid. I'd suggest building it in a small project box, as you probably won't be running it directly off the side of a tuner (but maybe?).
forgive my ignorance, but why do mention specifically the kx2 or kx3 radios? would ths antenna work on 5 watts on a ft 891?
What a fun tedious build!! I need a bigger magnifying glass for the next one. Why 41' instead of 71' ?
41 ft is sufficient to cover 40 m and is very portable. You can certainly gain more performance and lower band operation with longer wires. 71 ft is a great non-resonant that will also easily tune up on, and cover, 80 m as well. If you've got the space, go even longer.
@@K6ARK Are you builds more for CW with a side of SSB? I think I made a mistake somewhere, the SWR is off the charts both for CW and SSB. What could I have done incorrectly, with the center wire inside the toroid to the antenna, the twisted to the BNC center point and the outer wire to the BNC body and Counterpoise. When I touch the outer BNC body or Toroid, the SWR drops considerably. Thanks for the learning opportunity!
Email me more info and I may be able to help figure out what's up. Include which build you did (EFHW or EFRW), wire lengths, and a screen shot of the SWR plot across the ham bands.
Thanks for the video always looking for a new antenna build. I just ordered the parts off eBay. What size wire did you use to fit into the BNC?
The 26 ga Poly-Stealth fits pretty nicely.
Great job! I'm a fan of EFHW so can't wait for that version. Going to build this too just for the laughs. Just out of curiosity, which core are you using for the EFHW version. Could put in the order already ;-) 73 de W7GE
-61 works fine for mono-band, but for the trapped or linked versions, the -43 mix works better.
Great! Yeah, need to do a bit of research how to get the most out of the tiny size. At QTH I use 3x 240-52's. But not planning to carry that transformer around ;-)
Yes, the FT50 size is good for maybe 10w or so. You might let the smoke out if you try for more. 😬
Yep, I'm limited to 10W anyway. Just built room to grow to QTH, so that no need to redo the antenna if I get an amp later. Thanks again for the great video and answers!
No problem! If you look me up and send an email, I can send some photos of EFHW versions to set you off in the right direction.
I have to have one of these!
Woohoo! Love this antenna!
Me too. It's the best thing since sliced bread as far as antennas go for these radios. 🤘
Just a heads up.... I bought the BNTECHGO 26ga PVC jacket wire from Amazon and it did not fit into the BNC solder window BNC connectors. Just a little too large. I hae since ordered Polysheath from Amateur Radio Supply. We'll see how well it fits. 73 de K4EES
Their 22ga silicone jacket fits perfectly.
Adam, I have used and reccomended this antenna to many new potable ops. I have always connected directly to the rig as randoms and coax tend to not mix well. An op in Idaho asked about using coax. I told him my take and that low power he may get away with a coil of coax and a few ferrite beads right at the antenna may help.
What is your take on coax on the random with a KX2?
TNX 72S
K7ULM
You know, I have almost never used coax with the random wire on the KX2. 99% of the time I directly attach it to the radio. The only time I have used coax is when I'm operating in a tent or other shelter and need to get the feed point outside. In those cases, I used a short length of RG-174 wound through a FT114-43 toroid about 6 or 8 turns, and then terminated with a BNC to attach to the feed point. It worked well enough, but I suspect losses were slightly greater.
Although not the most efficient antenna around, this thing can't be beat for all-band simplicity at the push of a button. Even so, I've worked plenty of DX with it. My best ever S2S contact was with ZL4RA who was using one of these antennas on a KX2 at his end. 🤷♂️
@@K6ARK Thanks Adam, that was basically my reply as well. I have used a few ferrite beads on a few Coils of the 174 coax. 20 ft coax running to the tent in elk camp contacted HI so acceptable losses. TNX FB ES 72s
I would love one of these antennas. What would you charge to make me one or two?
ok i got one built with a 450 ohm dummy load on my nano vna i see swr at 1.5mhz is 1:1.3 at 1,8 mhz 1:1.1 up to 14mhz 1:5 at 23mhz 1:97 at 30mhz 2:3 so 50-43 should be good for the low bands i got to order some 50-61 and build a second one chris
Length of wire will make a difference, but he also mentions this requires a tuner.
Thanks for the video, Adam! As soon as I saw Mike's K8MRD video featuring this antenna, I knew I had to try building it. I have all of the parts ordered - and now have the time. 🤷🏻♂️ I'm no expert, but... 24 toroids to practice wrapping, and 10 BNC connectors to fiddle with... Why not give it a go? Thanks again! 73 KJ7LLX
A fat solder tip and a hot iron are helpful for the ground, and a very thin tip with a bit less heat for the center conductor. Good luck and let me know if you need any tips or help.
@@K6ARK Thanks, Adam, will do!
Just a question about assembly. Do you need to loop the radiating element connection wire back around the outside then up through the knurled tube. Would it not be easier to just chop all of that part off and give yourself more room and easier access to the center connector? You would be getting rid of the metal right in the center of the toroid and allowing yourself to not have to do any fiddly threading of wire. It looks as though the tube just acts as a convenient anchor. Or is there a technical point that I am missing? Does it have to do with impedance or one of the other 1001 things that I don't know about?
No technical reason other than strain relief. You have the right idea - you could cut it off but I like building it that way.
@@K6ARK Thank you for the reply. I tried building one of these using a non solder type connector. I used the post that crimps around the braid to hold the toroid ( which slipped around it perfectly) and then wrapped around the toroid AND the crimp part of the post. No idea whether it works or not since I don't have a license yet and can't even use it. Wrapping around the metal will probably throw the whole thing off, but I wanted to try it as a concept.
my first try at this type of winding only had 50-43 cores in my box will have to order the 61 mix
The -43 should work well enough. Give it a try.
@@K6ARK thanks might be a wile before i test it i am with bad leg so not mobile just doing projects wile i mend
That is a man in dire need of a strong cup of coffee lol. great video! go get some sleep
Great vid. Thanks for posting. Now I have a project for the quarantine! 73 de KF7VUT
Nicely done, ordering the parts now, but having trouble sourcing the BNC. Any direction would be appreciated. KE0JVS
Check the Amazon shopping list in the description or search "solder window BNC"
Cheers Adam looks tricky but worth the practice runs to get it right. vk5cz ..
Will this antenna, or any of your antenna, work with the 20w Xiegu G90?
The 20w version certainly will. amzn.to/3LKtn4I
YEA!!! This is the video I have been waiting for!! Juddie - WD8WV
i never had a Problem to tune a random wire on my KX2 without any Balun.... The Tuner is so good, just put the Wire on a BNC Banana Plug and it workds great .. but anyway nice work
Yes, it can generally do it. Tuner losses are going to be more significant without the 9:1, and depending on the lengths of wire used, you may struggle to tune certain bands. The 9:1 ensures all bands will tune 1:1.
The amazon part list doesn’t seem to have any items listed. Can we get that please?
Fixed! Sorry... Amazon default settings hid items others had purchased. www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/249MBKSZIE5K8?ref_=wl_share
Buddies in MN and WI that I sent this antenna to refer to it as.....
"THE MOONRAKER!"
At 4:03 in your "How small can you go?" video , the 9:1 on the BNC shows a capacitor. This video has no capacitor. Which do you find works better? Why did you drop it out for this latest build. Thanks K7AOZ
Hi Al, check my other video on the resonant EFHW micro matching unit. This is not the same antenna.
Good evening, I would like to open the station in 11m. In Romania we use the CB band for free, on trucks. I can't use xiegu x5105 in 11m. Can you help me with this problem?
That would not be legal in the United States. I am not familiar enough with radio transmission regulations in Romania. I also do not know what would be required to modify the Xiegu for those frequencies if it is legal.
@@K6ARK In Europe it is legal cb band
Question: Is it 24ga or 28ga magnet wire? Video says 24, shopping list says 28
Ron, I've used both, and in the kits i put together, i actually use 26 ga. so take your pick. Larger 24 ga wire may be slightly more efficient, but wont fit quite as many turns in the same size toroid. If youre interested in a couple of kits, look me up of QRZ and send me an email.
Being curious....what would the maximum power be that you can put on this antenna? I am worried a g90's 20W might be a little too much seeing as this is built for lower powered units.
20w SSB will probably be ok, but I would suggest a FT114-43 toroid for 20W operation. Maybe even stack 2 of them for full duty cycle Digi mode use.
@@K6ARK awesome. Thank you! I might just play around at lower power settings for now. It is a real pita to get quality toroid cores here in South Africa. Basically got to import from the US or europe, so I will be adding a few of those on my wishlist.
Quite enjoyed building this antenna, even the frustrating, can't solder in tight spaces to save your life bit. Learnt a lot in the process as well. Looking forward to trying out a lot more of your awesome antennas.
Yes, I imagine getting parts there is tough. I built some kits which include a PCB making assembly easier.
If you have more 50 size toroids, you could also stack two or three to see how that improves power handling. Monitor SWR during operation, and periodically check the temperature of the toroids. If they get very hot to the touch or your SWR climb, you may be pushing them too hard.
@@K6ARK I will definitely try to get some of those. I can however get some 50-43's in the meantime. Stacking a couole of those should do a bit better on 20w?
I finished the build with the 50-61, 71ft radiator and 17ft counterpoise....my little radio has never been more alive. Listened in on 40m last night with the max antenna height about 3 or 4m above ground.....loads of dx stations audible. This little anyenna has made me rethink the permanent efhw at home......time for some serious antenna R&R at home.....
@@flipster7285 you can definitely stack toroids for more power handling - even more than two if you want. I would suggest trying two stacked, operate for a while, and see if they get warm or hot to the touch after transmitting for a while at 20w. If they stay cool enough to touch, you should be good to go.
Hi Adam a quick one can I use 20 gauge for the Toroid as I have 2 rolls . Thanks terry
Hey Terry, I know this is an old comment but figured I would reply for anyone else who might have the same question. The only problem with 20awg is that it probably won't fit through the center of the BNC adapter. I ended up using 22awg silicone from BNTECHGO on Amazon and it fits pretty snug (great wire and manufacturer by the way).
73
@@alexn78666 thanks Alex yes on infestation once I got the toroids I found that it was going to thick for the 27 turns also. 73
Love it.
Is it 24 or 28 gauge magnet wire. In the video you state 24 gauge on the list of parts it shows 28. Want to buy the right thing. Thanks.
Both will work. I typically use 24 ga with this antenna to minimize losses in the transformer. The EFHW transformer build tends to run out of space with 24 ga, so the 28 ga wire is better for that one. If you want one spool of wire that will work for both builds, go with 28 ga.
K6ARK Portable Radio Thank you! Off to order now!!
Fantasatic build. I will make a run at it. I am hoping to do something like this for resinant antennas to use without tuners. These are great, the BNC connector is the trick for sure. Thanks for sharing.
Yes! I make a similar EFHW matching unit that looks identical except without a counterpoise. A SMD 100pf capacitor is hidden inside, and the unun is about 64:1. I make some tiny traps so it's good on 20/30/40m for use with an MTR3B
Perhaps that one needs a build video too... 🤔
@@K6ARK
That is exactly what I need. I have a 40m and 20m QCX radios from QRP Labs. Receive is great on them and I want high efficiency resonant antennas for when we are super remote. Not a ton of hams out here so good strong signals and receive is the goal for QRP. Your antennas look great. I built a tuner from QRPGUYS that would probably handle the random wire but with single band radios I want to maximize the antenna. Your work is great and inspiring. Thanks K7ULM
Yes, the EFHW is perfect for the QCX.
@@K6ARK Yup, when this snow melts I have a lot of cabin fever to blows off. Can't wait. Pound the air waves bro!
Where do I buy this antenna?
Kits are for sale on Amazon and linked through www.k6ark.com 😁👍
Adam can u attach a link for the bnc that you use i looked on amazon but didnt see any?
Check the Amazon shopping list in the video description. Also, try searching "solder window BNC" on Amazon, eBay, etc.
@@K6ARK thanks ill take a look
Fixed the list... Sorry! www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/249MBKSZIE5K8?ref_=wl_share
And you still have all your fingers :)
i only have some t50-6 will it work ?? DE VA2GCF
Probably not as well, but maybe on the higher bands. Give it a try and let us know.
Can not find the parts on amazon.
Fixed the list! Sorry about that... www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/249MBKSZIE5K8?ref_=wl_share
For those of you (like me!) whose eyes have slightly gone south on them, whose fingers have grown a wee bit too fat and shaky and who may wish to keep the cussing to a minimum...but...yet still wish to put one of these fantastic non coax needing antennas into their portable pack...I have come up with an alternate method and a fairly easy way to wind up one that seems to work just as well....It is not as pretty, nor as cool as Adam's but so far its working well for me! 73 de Jim K2MIJ -> P.S. I just tied the unun to the BNC adapter with some dental floss! ;-) ua-cam.com/video/qZfcylIhMOc/v-deo.html
cool video 73 de DE2TRF
I do not see any parts in the Amazon list.
Some people have been having that problem. Try it on a computer, phone, or different browser.
@@K6ARK Tried to retrieve parts list using three different browsers plus safari on an iPhone 10 list comes up blank
Figured out the problem and fixed the list: www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/249MBKSZIE5K8?ref_=wl_share
Here's the Amazon link to the "solder window" BNC. I finally have all the parts and hope to start build tomorrow. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WQ4PK9E/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Where did you get your FT50-61?
@@jdan6102 I hope to start the build today. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084LVQSTX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
You lost me at the “so I’m just going to twist this...”
Have you tried using hot glue instead of epoxy? You can pretty readily remove hot glue with IPA. If hot glue doesn't work, you just didn't use enough. LOL.
Hot glue will work great until I leave my antenna in my car on a hot day and becomes a hot mess. 😆
Fat chance with my hand tremors. N4KBM
Fb om de gi0ggy.