yagi home brew help

[guitarbrian30]

Hey guys I attempted with little success my first home brew yagi using the make your own yagi web based java program.

I used a 2x4 96" long with all the elements being some rod I had laying around.

It works great on the sites that are close but the one that is 25 miles away is my diamond I am trying to reach. Just so close. Yet so far away. This would be the ideal antenna for the job I want. I am just mointoring a VHF digital system. 3600 baud rate. I am getting 700 on my signal strength. On the decode tons of errors. Can not monitor anything with all garbage in the back ground.

Can anyone offer me a new fresh idea on how to build one. I just felt like I got kicked in the nuts with this project. Looks like what it should. I am guessing I am missing something so easy. Even better if someone wants to build me one I will even pay you.

[hertzian]

I don't know what you used for the java program, but did it mention anything about decoupling the feedline from the antenna, possibly skewing your pattern?

If not, an easy one to build and try can be seen here:

http://www.radioreference.com/forums...-rf-choke.html

Something to try anyway before scrapping the project...

[guitarbrian30]

Thanks a ton!!! That is information that is helpful.

[N_Jay]

What are you trying to listen to?

Is it simulcast?

Do you need the gain of the yagi, or are you trying to null a few sites?