How to Build Antennas

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Choose the rod length for your antenna.

   You will need 2 rods that are
   46.4 inches (117.8 cm) long if you are designing the antenna to listen to non-commercial radio stations such as college channels.
   
   You will need 2 rods that are
   42.4 inches (107.5 cm) long if the antenna is for listening to FM band stations.
2. 2

   Step 2: Place your rods perpendicular to each other and tie them together with a piece of string or tape.

   You might need to tape together extra pieces to brace the frame. , These lengths will be of equal size.
   
   You will need
   32.8 inches (83.2 cm) of wire for the non-commercial type of antenna's 3 sides.
   
   Full-band will need
   30.0 inches (76 cm) for each of the three sides. , This 4th side is comprised of 2 half lengths coming together to form the final side.
   
   Each half length is
   16.4 inches (41.6 cm) for non-commercial and 15 inches (38 cm) for full-band. ,,,, You may need a converter if your radio has a 75 Ohm input. ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Wrap insulated wire around 3 of the frame edges in the formation of a square.

4. 4

   Step 4: Tie together the corners of the last side with tape to pull the wire taunt.

5. 5

   Step 5: Strip the 2 length ends to expose a little of the bare wire to wrap them together at a point where the feeder cable connects to the rods.

6. 6

   Step 6: Solder this connection with a soldering gun.

7. 7

   Step 7: Join a feeder conductor to this junction using the same method.

8. 8

   Step 8: Connect another feeder conductor to the 300 Ohm input of your radio.

9. 9

   Step 9: Experiment with shifting your antenna around the room to obtain the best reception.

Detailed Guide

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