[PVRCNC] [PVRC] Hex/Spiderbeam advice?

[Roberts, Will]

Kent et. al,

I just came across this e-mail and wanted to pass along our first impression of the K4KIO hex beams that we used on PY0F…

I purchased the K4KIO 20-6m model based on positive feedback from N0TG and AA4VK after they purchased and built theirs. The kit is very straightforward to build – Can easily be done in less than an hour as all of the spreaders are ready to go, and the wires are pre-cut to length. All of the hardware comes attached to the base plate so that all you have to do is install the spreaders into the u-bolts, thread the wires through the c clamps attached to the spreaders and you are on the air.

As many had told me, the antennas work very well at low heights. I can verify this as well. I have some plots that were done for the hex at 10’, 15’, 20’ on 20m-10m that I can share with anyone interested.

As for transport, the spreaders are 48” long, and can be put in a ski bag, golf bag or military mast bag as we used. Total weight is around 24 lbs.

I would not hesitate to recommend the KIO model for a portable antenna, however I have been told by a friend who helps build the NA4RR model, that it uses similar construction techniques and is priced about $100 lower. I was not aware of this at the time that I bought mine. If I were going to use a wire yagi for a fixed location, I would go with the Spiderbeam as it is actually a 3 element antenna. It is just not as compact and “travel friendly”. N4YDU can probably give good first hand recommendations and tips on those.

73,

Will AA4NC



From: Kent Winrich [mailto:kwinrich at gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2015 11:28 AM
To: Roberts, Will
Cc: pvrc at mailman.qth.net; pvrcnc at mailman.qth.net
Subject: Re: [PVRC] Hex/Spiderbeam advice?



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I would be interested in this as well.

Kent K9EZ

On Mon, Jul 27, 2015 at 9:20 AM, Roberts, Will <Will.Roberts at duke-energy.com<mailto:Will.Roberts at duke-energy.com>> wrote:
I need to purchase a hex/spiderbeam type antenna for portable use. I am considering the pros/cons of several different models and wanted to get input from owners and users.

Primary consideration is for portability. It must be able to be configured in a nylon bag as checked baggage on airlines. It must cover 6 bands - 20m through 6m. Secondary consideration is ease and speed of construction. It doesn't have to be super rugged, as I intend to use it only for portable operations, so hopefully it will not be subjected to high winds/ice, etc.

I would appreciate any feedback from the club.

73,

Will AA4NC

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