About the only time I need the flame thrower antenna and/or pre amp is when I'm trying to stretch the AO-7 foot print to get to OH8MBN from Seattle. Other than that a short yagi and low power is very adaquate for LEO's
73 Bob W7LRD
Seattle
----- Original Message -----
From: "Joe Krepps" occupant@ytpress.com To: amsat-bb@amsat.org Sent: Monday, June 27, 2011 5:02:55 PM Subject: [amsat-bb] Re: How to get started on SSB birds (antennas)
All,
I appreciate that this topic has been brought up (especially _after_ FD, HiHi!!).
If I may inject a question: for the seriously budget minded, is there any value to building a "better antenna" (i.e. more elements for improved gain) versus adding a pre-amp? I realize a higher gain antenna will be more sensitive to positioning/aiming and, unless I go the U-110 rotator route, I won't be doing much elevation adjustment.
I'll be using either my current FT-817ND or an eBay all mode 2m transciever, for AO-7. In Mode A, rx with the FT-817ND & tx with a "well loved" 2m all mode. In Mode B, rx with the 2m all mode and Tx with the FT-817ND. Of course, dialing the power down as often as practical!
(Now, I kinda' wish I could have held onto my old IC-820H, Yaesu Az/El rotators and "Oscar link" crossed yagis...but I needed $$ at the time. Now, I'm married so, by definition, I'm broke. HiHi!)
I appreciate ALL the wisdom shared so far! :)
Mny tnx & 73! Joe WB3CFN P.S. I _do_ have an Arrow but not sure how suitable it is for continuous outdoor use. _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb