AlmostHandy
Member
It's ugly as hell, but it works.
It actually works far better than I would have ever guessed.
This antenna is based on the BNC connector from a stock 20-034 antenna. (Some of you may recall this thread, where I violated this antenna, in an attempt to understand the innards more thoroughly.)
It consists of stripped #12 Romex wire, straightened as well as can be expected.
The main element is 19". The two shorter stubs are 6 and 3.5 inches.
It's designed to receive 150/450/800MHz. I was skeptical that it would work on any band, let alone all of them. It's actually shocking how much more clear voices are when there isn't any static. Even Seattle's trunked system come in better with this thing, than it does with my (just over 30 days old :evil 20-283 800MHz antenna.
When I was done building it, I actually laughed. I was convinced that this rickety, flimsy, piece of crap wouldn't pick up bird droppings. It was pretty cool when I plugged it in and picked up the WSP for the first time.
I've learned that precision isn't everything, and these systems seem to be quite forgiving. I've also learned that #12 solid copper wire is as stiff as a wet noodle, and I'll be looking for some brazing rods to make the next version of this antenna. I can't wait to start on it. :lol:
Here's a general shot of the antenna.
Here's a closeup of the base.
It actually works far better than I would have ever guessed.
This antenna is based on the BNC connector from a stock 20-034 antenna. (Some of you may recall this thread, where I violated this antenna, in an attempt to understand the innards more thoroughly.)
It consists of stripped #12 Romex wire, straightened as well as can be expected.
The main element is 19". The two shorter stubs are 6 and 3.5 inches.
It's designed to receive 150/450/800MHz. I was skeptical that it would work on any band, let alone all of them. It's actually shocking how much more clear voices are when there isn't any static. Even Seattle's trunked system come in better with this thing, than it does with my (just over 30 days old :evil 20-283 800MHz antenna.
When I was done building it, I actually laughed. I was convinced that this rickety, flimsy, piece of crap wouldn't pick up bird droppings. It was pretty cool when I plugged it in and picked up the WSP for the first time.
I've learned that precision isn't everything, and these systems seem to be quite forgiving. I've also learned that #12 solid copper wire is as stiff as a wet noodle, and I'll be looking for some brazing rods to make the next version of this antenna. I can't wait to start on it. :lol:
Here's a general shot of the antenna.
Here's a closeup of the base.