[Elecraft] Urban stealth HF: Inside-the-backpack loop antenna?

[Wayne Burdick]

I’ve engaged in plenty of ultralight HF pack operation, with a KX2, AX1 antenna and a dragged counterpoise. In wide open spaces it’s a blast. But urban settings with dogs, wire-eating cacti and overzealous Neighborhood Watchers can distract from one’s radio experience. 

So, just for grins, I’d like to try something completely incognerdo: no visible antenna. A small remotely tuned loop (say 12” diameter) would seem to be the best choice, as it would fit entirely inside a small backpack. It could have  modest efficiency while not requiring a counterpoise wire. Rigid 1” copper pipe formed in a square would be convenient to deploy. 

The loop would be only 6 to 8” from soft tissue, so you’d want to run QRP, of course.  OTOH, we’re talking about HF. A cellphone by your ear is probably worse. 

Any other antenna suggestions?

Wayne
N6KR



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