8/7/04
Randy, AB8CO and his XYL, Marilyn hosted an antenna party on Saturday, 8/7/04. Lou - N8KXM, Sandi, Marian - WD8CJD and Keith - WA8ZWJ attended the antenna party. Randy had assembled an assortment of items suitable for use in constructing a dipole or other wire antenna. Because of the layout of his property, the lack of tall trees and his wishes for the antenna to remain basically stealth, a lot of factors had to be taken into account. After carefully evaluating the situation, it was decided that the most efficient use of the space available was to construct and erect a G5RV antenna. This would provide Randy with multiple band opportunities and still remain basically stealth in nature.
As a center support, the group used what was the remnants of a vertical antenna that had been struck by lightning. For end supports we used short wooden stakes driven into the ground. This provided for an inverted V type erection. Randy had constructed a PVC center tie point in anticipation of the antenna party. This provided for an easy means to attach the wire elements, ladder line and was able to be slipped over the end of the vertical antenna support. The ladder line comes straight down from the center support and is held a consistent distance from the support mast by use of screw eyes designed for the task. The ladder line is attached to the coax just a couple of feet off of the ground.
As the old vertical is a bit limber at the top, a rope was used to counter the weight of the wire and keep the top erect. Randy's HF rig is a Kenwood 830 with tube finals. Lou, N8KXM had the bright idea of calling Hoss, WA5ZAI to test the antenna. Contacts with Hoss were made both on 20 meters and 40 meters! Another successful installation of the G5RV! Afterwards, the group enjoyed a fantastic cookout dinner and continued the fun and fellowship of the visit!
Plans are to replace the center support with a bit more substantial mast pipe and to replace the end supports with 2X2's or 2X4's driven into the ground to further elevate the ends as well as get the wires above the heads of any passerby. Plans were also discussed for a stealth VHF/UHF antenna system in the attic.
Best wishes to Randy with his new access to the HF Ham Radio Bands!
