Connecticut is “Line of Sight Challenged” with its North-South ridges.
You have probably noticed the range limitations of using a "rubber duck" antenna on your HT.
It does get frustrating, doesn't it?
- I know... I speak from personal experience.
However, for anyone looking to improve portable VHF/UHF operations, here is a way to get more range. I have included photos (below) to show you Ed's (WA1LEI) example.
Harbor Freight Tools
16' Masts ALL GONE! - ONLY 20' FLAGPOLES ARE BEING SOLD NOW.(Sept. 2013)
If you can still find them, Harbor Freight stores are now discontinuing the 16’ telescoping “Flag Poles (with flag) and they are going FAST.
- The 20’ (2 flag) model sells regularly for $69.99
WARNING:
These flagpoles are ONLY good for TEMPORARY USE.
- If you leave them outside too long, you run the risk of corrosion. This makes the slip joints near impossible to loosen and retract the pole (BTDT).
In the photo below, we see looking from the ground and going up:
• Black Speaker Stand (Tripod),
• White PVC pipes filled with sand*
• 16’ Mast
• The lower section of a 144/440 MHz Base Antenna (Gain) and Coax.
COAX:
While everybody knows about LMR-400 as being the entry level and preferred coaxial cable for VHF/UHF feed-lines, I deem it too fragile for field use.
Better to consider using a "CJ-BF"
Low-Loss Bury/Flex coax cable (1/2" diameter).
- similar to LMR-400, but less delicate.
Anything less (e.g. RG-8x) is a decibel (i.e. Signal) losing proposition at these frequencies (VHF/UHF)
HOW MUCH COAX?
With an antenna feedpoint at 20' above ground, that leaves 25 feet of coax to run to your radio plus 5 feet allowing for floor to table rise.
Consider THIS:
Have 2 lengths of 50' of Low-Loss Flex/Bury coax AND with a barrel connector (to connect them) in your
GO KIT.
- This will give you versatility and options depending on distance from the radio to the antenna.
*For peace of mind, although quite stable in a "slight" breeze, you might want to put 3 stakes in the ground with 3 guy ropes attached to the mast for safety, and/or consider placing sandbags on each of the three legs of the tripod.
UPDATE: June 5, 2023
I am now using a
Drive On Mast Mount to use with the Telescoping Flag Pole/Mast.
It is easier (and safer) for
1 person to set up than using the tri-pod.
Photo to follow.
Regards,
Douglas Sharafanowich
District Emergency Coordinator, Region 2
Connecticut Amateur Radio Emergency Service (CT ARES)