G'day Andrew, Photos look great but I would suggest to get the most from your helix you should use a larger reflector, it's generally 1 wavelength diam. is OK. This does create a much greater wind loading, especially on the lower Frq's , probably one reason why they haven't gained more popularity. If matched properly you should be able to get a 1:1 SWR I have just upgraded my 2m helix (no photos available yet) The 10 turn helix was previously made of 3 mm hard drawn copper wire. I have just replaced the helix with 15 x 2 mm aluminum strap. This has improved the gain considerably, I won't quote figures because I don't believe i have test gear to accurately measure antenna gain.
See :- http://www.electric-web.org/tracking_antenna.htm Also :- http://www.electric-web.org/2m_helix_antenna.htm
Regards Tony. VK5ZAI
J.A.(Tony)Hutchison P.O.Box 470 Kingston SE South Australia 5275
National ARISS Co-ordinator and Satellite ground Station.
Web Site :- http://www.electric-web.org
Andrew Rich wrote:
http://www.tech-software.net/antennae/index.html
Updated photo gallery
Andrew Rich VK4TEC
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