ANTENNA PROJECTS
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Simple VHF/UHF Tape Measure Yagi antennas for under $20 |
The Yagi-Uda antenna is probably the most commonly recognized directional antenna in existence today. Tape Measure Yagis (so named because the elements are made from a metal measuring tape) have become very popular in the last few years, especially for RDF and EMCOM work, because they're simple to make, inexpensive, lightweight, portable, and easily stored. There have been numerous articles written in the last few years, each with a slightly different take on the process. The antennas offered here are a mix-up of several styles, with a few similarities and a few major differences, but all equally effective.
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| TAPE MEASURE YAGI #1
Less than $20, +7db gain with a sharp null to the rear. What's not to like?
Construction plan written and photographed by Tom Niderost, K4TMN
Original plan found on Joe Leggio's (WB2HOL)
Additional design modifications by Andy Woolard, AA4XS
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| TAPE MEASURE YAGI #2
Same basic design as #1, with some modifications, like self tapping screws instead of pipe clamps, and an integral choke balun. The ends of the elements were rounded with tin snips to eliminate the need for taping or plastic coating the sharp edges.
The optional addition of the choke balun helps to reduce feedline signal pickup that will move the maximum signal lobe off axis, making bearings unreliable (if the fox ends up being 45 to 90 degrees off where your antenna says it is, this might be why)
Assembled and photographed by Glenn McFarlin, W4ULB
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| TAPE MEASURE YAGI #3
Same basic design as #2, but cut for 70cm. 1/2" measuring tape is used and boom/element spacing is adjusted.
To scale this antenna for any other VHF/UHF frequency, read the ARRL article (.pdf) by W1TRC . It contains formulas you can use to calculate element lengths and spacing, as well as boom length.
Assembled and photographed by Glenn McFarlin, W4ULB
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| TAPE MEASURE YAGI ACCESSORIES
There are a number of very cool gadgets available to make RDF'ing more comfortable, fun, and effective, like Offset Attenuator Kits, 3D printed handles & radios holders, plus more. Click on the links below.
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