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Antenna Workshop

  • 31 Oct 2022 10:10 PM
    Message # 12973529
    Robert (Administrator)

    BasicPlus modifications

    to make station more attractive and easier to use

    What We have done so fare is remove coax going to relay so that the south station antenna system for 20 15 10 is no longer affected by activity at BasicPlus station 

    We have a cushcraft R5  In the joist space 
    I would like to have it installed on the 30ft pipe west of clubhouse 
    This would meet recommendations in documentation 
    “Mount the antenna as high and in the clear as possible”
    may need to put some concertos on some repurposed coax.

    We have a 80meter slopper from an antenna system formerly on south tower we can repurpose .  It could be supported at one end using halyard for north OCF 

    contact station team if you can help


    Last modified: 14 Jul 2023 8:20 PM | Robert (Administrator)
    Moved from Club Station Forum: 26 Sep 2024 6:46 AM
  • 14 Jul 2023 8:12 PM
    Reply # 13228157 on 12973529
    Robert (Administrator)
    Robert Wilson wrote:

    BasicPlus modifications

    to make station more attractive and easier to use



    contact station team if you can help



  • 20 Jul 2023 10:13 AM
    Reply # 13230307 on 12973529

    UPDATE:

    I have the antenna at my place now. We found that there were a couple sections of the telescoping part missing and I have one piece on hand and have the other piece on order to get this set up. 

    There are two images attached. One was what I found at the station and the second is the two missing pieces highlighted on another installation. 

    I have the 1.25" O.D. , 0.0625 wall aluminum tube for the lower section and I have a 1.125" O.D. 0.0625 wall section on order to get to me. I'll cut them to length and find some hose clamps to finish it off. Other than that the antenna is complete and on initial inspection looks to be in good shape. I have not opened the job box and looked in and will do that today to make sure there are no shorts or funny stuff going on.

    I estimate mid to late next week I can have that antenna up and operating at the station. 

    VE6SFX 73





    2 files
    Last modified: 27 Jul 2023 5:21 PM | Robert (Administrator)
  • 23 Jul 2023 9:09 PM
    Reply # 13231336 on 12973529
    A fix has been made and and all sections for the antenna are back at the shack. I will endeavour to install it later this week. 
  • 17 Aug 2023 2:21 PM
    Reply # 13242336 on 12973529

    I'd like to present a more convenient method for installing our antenna mast mount. This approach avoids the labor-intensive task of digging and using concrete, which can be cumbersome and permanent.

    The Solution: Instead of traditional methods, I propose using screw piles available at Rona or Home Depot (link here). These screw piles are designed to handle a pull-out and push force of 5500 lbf each. By utilizing four of these, we can achieve an optimal pull-out strength of 22,000 lbf, which should be more than sufficient for our antenna mast.

    Mobility and Flexibility: What makes this method unique is that the platform is easily removable and adjustable on the lot. If the mast tilts, we can simply reposition the piles by either pushing them deeper or unscrewing them to the desired level. This pseudo-mobile mount offers versatility without sacrificing stability.

    Design and Construction: To further support the system, I recommend attaching split collars to the screw piles and using a plate made of aluminum or steel, at least 3/8" thick, to house a socket for the antenna mast. An 18-24" square plate with corresponding holes for the screw piles will ensure that tilt forces remain within 2200 ft-lbf, likely much higher if the plate is on the ground.

    Cost Efficiency: The entire setup is estimated to cost between $300 and $400, including the plate and welded parts. While a traditional concrete pile may be less expensive, it involves a significant amount of digging and offers no mobility or adjustability (and as a side note, as ex-infantry, I have developed a allergy to shovels).

    Sketch and Approval: Attached is a quick sketch to illustrate my idea. Upon receiving approval, I will proceed with purchasing the necessary parts and complete the installation.

    This proposal aims to provide a cost-effective, flexible, and robust solution for our club's antenna mast. We can streamline the installation process without compromising on quality. I'll proceed with this project once given the green light from someone more senior in the club as I am a new guy and do not want to go out and spend the clubs money on this unless approved

    2 files
    Last modified: 29 Aug 2023 2:03 PM | Ben Eadie


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