[QRP] Isotron Antennas

[Daniel Reynolds]

--- crbink <crbink@sbcglobal.net> wrote:
> I was thinking about using the Isotron 40,30,20,17,15 meter ones, use
> a 1" PVC from floor to ceiling and hang the antennas from the pole.
> 
> BUT! How good are the antennas ??
> 


Hey Bink,

I have no experience with the Isotron, but I have read dozens of
articles/postings on newsgroups and across the internet. Some folks equate the
Isotron to 'snake oil' or a dummy load, and others think they are a great
(compromise) antenna. 

My situation is similar to yours. I live in an apartment complex with access to
the attic space through my bedroom closet. If I could find an Isotron and try
it out, I would (especially since QRP is my main mode of operation).

Some places to get other opinions on this antenna include:

http://groups.google.com (Search for 'Isotron')
http://www.eham.com/reviews/ (Search for 'Isotron')

Since you didn't mention 80m operation, while you are eHam.com, be sure to
check out information on these alternative antennas:

- MFJ-1788 (or 1786) Super Hi-Q Loop (good for permanent set up - has a remote
box that controls the tuning of the antenna)

- W3FF Buddipole Portable Dipole/Vertical (good for temporary set up - must
have direct access to antenna to change bands and adjust tuning of the antenna)

Both of these antennas offer multiband capability (except 80m). By the time you
buy all of the Isotron antennas, you could have bought one of these two
antennas. I own the Buddipole because I enjoy storing my K2 and buddipole in my
car and operate 'picnic table-portable' when it is nice outside. This situation
works really well for me as it gives me a portable antenna and a 'prime QTH'
away from the powerline noise and interferance of my apartment complex.

If the MFJ loop had 80m capability, I would probably have one in my attic by
now. Most of my indoor operations would occur in the evening/night time during
the winter - so 40/80m would be my primary bands, and for that - I might try
out one of the Isotrons ... someday. It would be interesting to see if a small
multiturn loop (12' x 12') fed with feedline might do equally as well as the
Isotron.

You might get different results if you used 1" copper pipe, or 1" steel or
aluminum pipe instead of PVC to support the antenna. Some hams believe that the
reason the Isotron does so well for folks is because it is usually attached to
a tower near the top (and half of the antenna is the tower).

So - I can't offer you a 'biased' opinion one way or the other as far as the
Isotron is concerned. 

However, I can tell you that most folks who have used the Buddipole are VERY
pleased with it. You can buy one new for around $200...

http://www.buddipole.com/

...or you can homebrew your own...

http://www.qsl.net/w3ff/

... and there is a large following for the Buddipole since with the B.U.G.
(Buddipole Users Group). There, you will find hundreds of others who are
actively trying new things with this antenna (usually with QRP - and some while
they are portable... and others while they are actually hiking down a
trail!!!). Even "Budd" himself monitors the group, so you can e-mail the
'manufacturer' and 'designer' of the antenna with your questions and concerns.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Buddipole/join

So - I hope this helps you a little bit as you try to form an opinion on the
Isotron or look for a another antenna that should meet your needs.

72,
Daniel/AA0NI
Oklahoma City