George makes some AMAZING stuff. I have all 3 of his antennas. My 1st 4 QSOs with the linked dipole were with Czech Republic, British Columbia, Slovenia and N. Ireland. This was done from a local park in St. Louis, MO with an IC-705 running 5 watts! The band gods were shining on me.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Holy crap thats awesome. George's antennas are fantastic indeed. You've had a lot better luck with your 705 than I've had with mine.

Awesome video!! It’s amazing what a little bit of wire and coax can do. Made it in to Ireland today on the G90 and SOTA Special.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

That's great! It doesn't take much. Just a good antenna and you can work the world. Thanks for watching. 73

When ever I'm exhausted with a long afternoon of WAH Zoom meetings, I always go to 12:48 and enjoy the next 20 seconds of pure HAM radio joy from u Mikey. Keep doing what u do dude. 73 KJ6ER, Silicon Valley

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

Lol, I assume thats the AK station. I still get excited when I work a DX like that. Just got Hungary the other day POTA. Blew my mind!

@gregmihran8616

2 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube Oh wow ... and those hand gestures at 12:59 are effing priceless. Hungary? No way Mikey, were u QRP? From Cali, we're lucky if we get Florida on POTA QRO. U da HAMmer. 73 KJ6ER

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

@@gregmihran8616 lol! The gestures help for sure. Omg that’s too funny!! Wasn’t QRP for the Hungary station. Running 90 watts like I usually do with the 891.

Awesome stuff, Mike!! Thanks for showing us how you did it.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Hey, thank you for watching buddy! 73

The Alaska contact was nice and fun to watch - It reminded me of when I first got my Tech Ticket, I had a Yaesu FT-101-D, and a homemade 10m dipole. After figuring out an issue with SWR, I finally fired up the rig and the first contact I made was Australia. This was over 30 years ago. I did a few contests, but I used VHF way more than HF back then.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Wow! That is a contact!! I still don't have Australia on SSB. I only have one to VK land on FT8 17 meters at like midnight. I was as giddy then as I was making that AK contact. Its just amazing what you can do with a piece of wire and 100 watts!

@wushock92

3 жыл бұрын

I, too, had a VK as my first contact on 10 meters as a Novice. I was mobile, using an HR-2610 (25 watts) and a mag mount CB antenna I hadn't cut back yet. The bands were on fire back in the 90s.

Hello Mike, Happy Holidays and thanks for posting this video. I'm working on my General upgrade and studying for the exam. Been quite awhile since I've been on the air. Liked your review of the PackTenna Mini EFHW. Went to the web-site and very reasonable price . Hopefully in 2021 we can have a brief QSO. 73's, Happy New Year, Dave N2HXG

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Dave, Thanks for watching. Good luck on your General. It opens up a whole new world in Amateur Radio to explore. This is one of my absolute favorite antennas and I have more than a few!

Hi Mike -- I just received the PackTenna EFHW...only took a couple of weeks to fill the order. I also got a spool of the slick 26 AWG, banana clips & mini-carabiners. Looks very well made. I'll give it a go with my KX3, and the spiffy new FT-891 as soon as I receive it (end of April or so). Great video...you just keep costing me money! 73, Vic KB7GL

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome, you should have no problems banging out the contacts with that configuration. Congrats.

I have ordered an EFHW capable of 80m, 40m, 20m, 15m and 10m. It is still making its way through Canada Post. And wow! You got Labrador! That's quite a rare catch.

The Band was on fire that day! I heard you were on so I set my radio back up but didn't find you. Nice Contacts to CA and Alaska, I was all over the east coast and into Finland I think he had a gooood antenna. 73 Mike

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Good lord that's some DX to Finland, awesome! It 20 was actually really slow going at first but picked up towards the end. Glad it did.

Yup love my end fed and my linked dipole as well. George and his company are super to deal with and make great products....thanks Mike for the video. Fred

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Darn skippy. One of the best antennas I own. I never go out without it.

Well this was fun to see, I did build one of this a couple of years ago, and still using it.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! Good to know you still like the EFHW.

@classicpicker1588

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube How does this antenna compare to the KM4ACK EFHW antenna?

I'm a fan of EFHW antennas. What enjoyed most about this video, however, is the simplicity of your station. You have power, a radio, and an antenna - that's it. Sure you seem to have a laptop for logging, but I assume that a paper logbook and a pencil would work too. I have an acquaintance that's trying to get me into digital modes. That seems like a ton more work and a whole lot more stuff. It's also hard on equipment because of the duty cycle. I was having lots of fun just watching you make phone contacts. Thanks for a great video.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. Yeah I don't get the allure of digital modes. I'll do FT8 every now and then if there isn't anything going on on SSB but I've never have any desire to do it portable. I just find it boring after 20 minutes or so. When I released my G90 Go Box video, so many people were asking why I didn't include a Raspberry Pi for digital. Its not that much more stuff to bring, but I'm not trying to go out into the field to listen to modem sounds.

I think you are a little excited about Alaska. ;) Great review. I'm checking out the antenna now for consideration.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah just a little bit. Its one of my absolute favorite antennas.

Hi Mike! I'll have to get on the list for this EFHW. Your videos helped get me hooked chasing POTA and I want to become an activator someday - thanks a lot buddy! ;) 73 de KI5GX

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome, glad to hear you are hunting. The EFHW has become a staple to my portable operations. It's just such an awesome antenna. You're gonna love it once you get it.

Wonderful! It doesn’t seem that a little higher SWR did you any harm! My understanding is that losses with a short coax are too small to worry about and I think you just proved it 😎. With love, Ken

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

Nah, didn't matter at all. I'm using RG8X I think in this video. Not really lossy on HF bands at all (not enough to matter). VHF/UHF not the best though.

Mike, Just picked up the Random wire and end fed half wave. So far I have used the random wire with great success ( contacts made in Costa Rica and Brazil). Should be setting up the half wave this weekend. Thanks for the tips on configuring the end fed halfwave. 73 George KB3WAQ

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Nice. Enjoy your new toys!

Hi Mike, for low power; coax will be okay for counterpoise but for higher power you may suffer from rf back at the rig. Using a choke is a great idea but continue to experiment. EFHW are very underrated but need a little patience to get right. I use almost exclusively when out and about as they are so easy to set up and yield good results. I am low power via my KX3. Great vid thank you 73 M0AZE Mike. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah I think I need to get a choke. I made a quick one by wrapping about 6 feet of coax around a pvc pipe and that didn't seem to make any difference. Some others have suggested height has a big part in it as well so I have much to experiment with. I've played around with adding a counterpoise too and that didn't change anything either. I'll get it one of these days. Still works great the way it is I just want to get the SWR down a bit more. Thanks for watching. 73

Great video! Thanks so much for taking the time to answer all the questions. Being new to ham radio I don't even know what questions to ask and love reading the comments. KD9MSP

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

No problem. I’m sure plenty of questions will present themselves to you over time. You never stop learning in this hobby.

Can't wait for them to be back in stock. BTW thanks for working me a few weeks ago. KD4KZZ Jeremy

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Hopefully soon. My pleasure. 73

I love your videos, Mike! Thanks for that! Question: do you typically use a tuner when you're portable?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks James. I almost never use a tuner portable as the vast majority of antennas I use are resonant.

Mike, this was a great video. I really appreciate you putting this information out. I'm studying for my General at the moment and I have watched a lot of your videos to try and get info on which radio and antenna I should purchase for my first rig. I am super stoked to make some contacts on HF. I live in the Austin TX area and can't wait to see how far out I can make contacts. I live in an HOA so I need an antenna that I can deploy, use, and take down easily. I would love to get your opinion on the Chameleon MPAS 2.0.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and good luck on your tests. You will be amazed at how far you can get out. My first DX contact was from Michigan to Slovenia. I screamed like a little girl. Even more than my reaction to getting Alaska in this video. It's so exciting, I love it! I've not used the MPAS 2.0 so I can't comment on that but I would imagine it would perform similar to the Wolf River Coils that I have. They work great. Not as good as a dipole up in the air but you will get out no problem.

The end of an EFHW is important. It does need a little capacitance to ground. My main is an EFHW and I have a full on 8 foot ground rod at the near end. Great video. 73, JP, K8AG

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Interesting. I don't think I would be able to pound a ground rod in for my portable activations lol! I've tried a counterpoise wire and that didn't seem to do anything. I still have a lot to learn about this type of antenna, but I love antennas so I look forward to it. Thanks for the feedback and thanks for watching. 73.

@joeshmoe7899

3 жыл бұрын

The ground is useful for static discharge, and lightening. I would ground the match box, NOT the radio.

4:08 Oh my...nice idea on using that clip (which I have dozens of) through the mast as an inverted V. I'll have to try that.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Pure luck. If I used a different mast it might not fit though. I have other solutions for different masts of course.

Antenna out of stock when I check. Great video.

Quite the opening you had ! Good information P.S. dont leave the external speaker behind next time ! I enjoy listening to the contacts.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Boy I'll say! I never bring an external speaker out though. Usually I find my Lav mic picks up most of the contacts well enough. Was the audio too low for you?

@oldpreach

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube well, you used to...lazy ham lol. Yeah, right. It sounded ok...3/5 ha

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

@@oldpreach I do appreciate some good lazy time you're right at that haha, but I can't think of a time where I've used an external speaker except for my VHF radio in the car. Maybe I was using someone else's radio in a video perhaps??

@oldpreach

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube um...idk...thought I remembered you running one earlier in your pota adventuress. Sorry, my bad. Thanks for all the work so we can enjoy and learn. I've been unable to do HF for months, so I really enjoy the radio you're doing.

Really a great video. WELL DONE ! Metric? Yes, a much better way to go. They tried to convert us to metric many years ago. We were just too dumb to get it. Hi Hi I started making and using HWEF's two years ago. If built and installed correctly, they really work well. I liked how you made the 40 meter add on optional. Neat idea. I keep mine as a 40 meter EF. I use #22 teflon insulated wire and my UnUn is rated at 25 watts. Since I only run QRP portable, what I use is perfect. The entire antenna w/UnUn fits in my shirt pocket and size matters to me. I want a compact portable station. My radio is a KX2. 20 feet of coax is more than enough for a counterpoise for an end fed. You are not trying to make a balanced dipole out of it. "What computer are you using?" I don't want to carry a full size computer with me when I go portable. But I need a small one that runs windows so I can log using Log4OM. I would be happy with a 5 inch screen as long as the rest of the computer is small. Alaska.....pretty neat. It's nice you showed that it's easy to get out and work stations. You looked like you had a fun day in the park. Barry, KU3X/QRP

@barrykery1175

3 жыл бұрын

I found your Ipad for logging. All I had to do is read.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Barry. I wish we were on the metric system. Sooo much better, and easier. This is my first EFHW and I absolutely love it. I need to tweak it a bit more but boy does it work like a champ! This only comes with enough wire for 20 meters so linking seemed like an easy solution and I'm really happy with it. I like the modularity of it in this configuration. I can always add more wire if I need it but can also take away if I'm short on space. All PackTennas are rated for 100 watts but they are so compact and light weight they are great for qro or qrp. I always have one on me when I go out. Check out Poly Stealth wire. Its copper clad steel and is amazing! Not what comes with the antenna but what I used for the 40 m add-on. It's really strong and super slick. You have to hold it to really understand but I love it. K6ARK turned me on to it. You can check out his channel too. He does amazing antenna builds and SOTA videos. Alaska was amazing! I've worked there before but never portable. Not a state I hear a lot from Michigan. I had an absolute blast, as I do every time I go portable. Glad you found the software. Ipad, HamLog. Simple. Anyway, thanks again for watching and 73.

Yepp 20, 17, 15 been open big time here lately. I've been making contacts into Eastern Europe and west coast on 15m. 73 de ac8gf.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah I heard Scotland on 17 the other day. Didn't work him but just hearing dx on 17 was really cool.

Great video! I do need to start building a Packtenna collection. Lugging around Buddipoles and loops is getting a bit old. Also want to start doing more QRP.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

These antennas are awesome. They're all rated for 100 watts though. They're not QRP antennas, but they work great for that too. Get em all.

@WJ6FRadio

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube It is my plan to get all of them plus the choke. Unfortunately half of them are sold out and I do not see any contact info on their website to find out when they maybe in stock.

M0KLL Keith from Sunderland England here. Good Video enjoyed 100%. Amazing I had to check the distance from Tx 77340 to AK 99705 . Did you announce in your vid what power output the Rig was set to? What I do like about that antenna is once tuned in no need for a matching unit ( ATU) less gear to carry around. I have subscribed to your videos and I wish you 73. Stay Safe....Keith.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. In this video I was still in Michigan, so it wasn't quite as far but still a very far and rare contact none the less. I was using 90 watts which is pretty typical for me portable. This has become one of my 2 favorite antennas for portable. No tuning, no mucking around, just a nice multi band resonant antenna. The other favorite is the DX Commander Expedition antenna. Thanks for the sub and 73!

I have one, but have yet to use it… I’m refining my QCX Mini 20m Kit now, so I’ll trim this up resonant @ 14.04λ. Ι’ll also build the 40m link with the clip… thanks for the video Mike! 72! de W7UDT Rand (dit dit)

Good stuff Mike...as always. I’m mad that I packed everything up, then looked at the POTA spots and saw you were out. Could have gotten a park to park out of it. Next time around! 73 K9DJR

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thats too bad. I'll be out tomorrow and Sunday with my club. Prob using the club call N8SL.

@KK6USYHamRadioAdventures

3 жыл бұрын

Dan Ryan, I set my stuff back up but never heard Mike, But I did get our contact on video will post Monday Night on #MNHR 73 KK6USY

@dr4710

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube right on...I’ll look before I go QRT this time!

@dr4710

3 жыл бұрын

@@KK6USYHamRadioAdventures very cool Chuck! Great to work you too!

@KK6USYHamRadioAdventures

3 жыл бұрын

@@dr4710 Actually our contact is on the desert video @ 8:18 or so

when adding the extra length of wire, what components/tools did you need to create the strain relief loops in the wires?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I crimped some ferrules George sent me a while ago for the linked dipole. No clue the size though. If you can't find those, you could just snake the wire through the 3 holes of the carabiner and not crimp at all. That would be way easier and just as effective.

Just ordered mine today, and will definitely be copying your 40 meter add on design. Hopefully this will finally get me on the air with POTA. 73! KY4CQ

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome. You’re gonna love it.

Mike, quit advertising for PackTenna! They can’t make them fast enough. I have been a user since they started the company. Good folks to deal with and great products. Dave K8WPE

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Never haha!! They are too good an antenna and George is too good a person to not show them off as best I can. Thanks for watching. 73

Always good a inverted v works always perfect , use it on my spiderbeam pole 12.5 mtr high. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I'm really liking it so far. I usually run inverted v's but this one is so much easier to get up than a center fed dipole.

Mike the efhw, imho is the best portable Hf antenna option. Your 20m swr by the way is perfectly ok .. do trim a little if you wish but 1.8:1 is fine. For quick deployment and dipole like performance the efhw is by far and away the best multiband portable antenna for HF. 73

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

1.8:1 is too high for my liking. I've still got some experimenting to do to see if I can get it lower. If I trim any more that throws the other bands off. I just cut an inch and 15 and 10 went up a bit. Love how easy it is to set up though. And it clearly gets out!

@joeshmoe7899

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube ...no need to cut. Just adjust the length as needed, using a 1 post wire rope clip, and twirl excess wire around antenna. www.amazon.com/dp/B07FZX57W3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gXy.FbDWQ462P?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Loved the video. Thank you. BTW, where did you find the mini banana plugs and sockets? Thanks.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. George sent me a bunch with my antenna. I'm 99% sure they are 2mm bullet banana plugs. Here's a link at your own risk :) amzn.to/3fgIZ0U

Interesting video. So with a un-un and the wire it comes with as a h/wave on 20m it also works as a full wave on 10m (approx same Z as a half wave). Doubling length for a h/wave on 40m it also works as a full wave on 20m. How does it work on 15m? Does the un-un just make a good-enough match on 15m? How does it work on the WARC bands? Thanks.

Great video!! Thanks!!

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

You bet!

Awewome video!! It's a shame more people don't use an end fed half wave for their portable operations, rather than those "short, quick and easy to setup, all I need is a short counterpoise, and it kinda works" antennas

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

It's certainly one of my main go to antennas. I didn't really know about them until I got this. I have another but never use it much because its 135' long. I use all kinds of antennas though. Depends on where I'm going, how I'll be able to setup and how much time I will be out there. So long as it gets you on the air.

Nice video mike. How much power were you running in this video with that little antenna?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I was at 90 watts. All PackTenna antennas are rated at 100 watts. Less for cw and digital of course.

Mike where did you get the silver compression clamp/clip to create the loop at the end of the 20M wire and the 40M extension? (2:24 mark) Looks like a really small cable clamp. Thank You and just watched the 705 video you posted from Texas Disregard the question about wire clamp/clip. I found the answer in another post (ferrules) THANKS

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you found them cuz I don't know where to get them. George from PackTenna sent me a bunch when I got my linked dipole.

What logging software are you using ? Still need to figure out something for a Fire HD 10. KE8DZW

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

HamLog

Good video Mike, appreciate the info and know how. I love my ft891. still have a lot to learn. Keep it up What mast are you using ?? KD9NIT,73s !!

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching. 73

Quick question -- What notebook are you using? It looks like it has touch screen features. I'm needing something like that for my EMCOMM/Field Day communications trailer for logging contacts. I also want something small that can handle digital modes such as FT8 and use Win Link. 73, K7SFA

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

It is an old iPad mini with a bluetooth keyboard. Being that it is locked down to Apples walled universe of exclusion, you won't be doing any ft8 or anything else ham radio related with it unless you VPN into a Raspberry Pi. Honestly, you would be better with anything else in the world for ham radio than an iPad. Fortunately I have zero interest in digital so it works for me as a logging computer.

Wow so imprest with the performance of that antenna, one question what power you was using? I plan to get one of those antennas and run QRP from my local parks around NW Wales in the UK.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

You and me both! PackTenna antennas handle 100 watts SSB no problem. Less for digital and CW of course. I was using 90 watts which is typical for my activations. No other reason than to just take it easy on the finals. Thanks for watching. 73

Great video Mike. I can’t even work Alaska on 100waaw. Gonna check this one out. 73 K0hio

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

This is the magic antenna that will make that happen and I was only using 90 watts! Thats why they are always out of stock. I worked him again in January right after I moved to Texas, but this time I was using the G90 at 20 watts. This antenna rocks!

I love my end feds. Easy to make too

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I've not gotten into wrapping toroids yet but I love making antennas. It is def something on my to do list.

Awesome! I’ll have to put this on my wish list! Enjoyed the video! Subscribing now! 🙂 👍🏻

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome Todd, thanks for watching and thanks for the sub. 73

Awesome!

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

Wonder if a little snow on the ground in a few weeks will help the SWR in the park?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I don't want to think about snow lol!

Where did you buy the banana connectors to solder ?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

George from PackTenna sent them to me with the antenna but they are gold plated 2mm banana connectors. Here's an Amazon link: amzn.to/3c7BOYV

how many watts could you bang out on that thing you reckon?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

All Packtenna antennas are rated for 100 watts. I typically use 90 just to take it easy on the finals of my radio.

Have you ever added a counterpoise to this antenna. To see if it improves it slightly? Another question have you noticed the 20m band a little difficult lately?

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

I did when I was first cutting it for resonance. It made zero difference. The shield of the coax acts as the counterpoise. I haven't been on in a few days other than yesterday but I called on 20 for a few minutes. Didn't get anyone and went down to 40. Started making contacts almost immediately.

Great video Mike… LOVE the joyful exuberance! 73 de Robert K3RRR

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Hey thanks Robert! Its kinda hard to not geek out when you get a contact like Alaska whilst portable. Thats a rare one. 73

Hey Mike, do you use a choke when you are operating with this EFHW?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Nope. Haven't needed one so far even at 100 watts.

i’ve been trying to find this antenna for months where can I get it?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

They go quick. They are woking on another batch. Follow their Groups.io for more info.

Question: now that you’ve tried each antenna from packtenna, which one is your favorite? Just curious.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Oh it's much too early to ask a question like that. I honestly like them all for different reasons.

Just to make sure I didn't miss something. When you switched from 40m to 20m, you did not unplug the additional section of wire, correct?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

You are correct. When it’s linked it’s resonant on 40, 20, and I think 15 and 10. I can’t remember off the top of my head.

Great vid. Curious what you're using to guy the main section of your mast. Looks very stable, but didn't see you setting that part up. Thanks as always! 73.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

With this mast I don't guy it at all. I have a tiki stake that it goes in and that's it. Its so light weight I don't need any more support. Unfortunately, the mast I'm using, Goture Sparkol 10 meter carbon fiber mast, is no longer available that I'm aware of.

@timmanwell2538

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube Carbon fiber? Plays ok with the antenna?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

@@timmanwell2538 Yep, no problem at all.

What small laptop are you using in this video?

I plan on running my 20m EFHW with a strain-relief loop and banana connector on the end, so I can connect another wire element for 40m, (as you do in this video). If I have already tuned and cut the wire for 20m to achieve low SWR in the middle of the band, will adding the loop at the end, change the SWR much?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

It shouldn't. Thats how I built mine, though I don't remember how much I had folded back already to save for the loop. That was my plan from the beginning of getting this antenna, to make a link.

@bilymac2321

3 жыл бұрын

Okay cool. Thank you Mike.

Great video 😁how did you fix the mast to the ground?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

With this mast I'm using a tiki torch stake I got at Lowes. It's thin enough to fit inside and I don't usually need to guy it. Other masts I'll just use some paracord attached to a hose clamp at the top of the outermost section of the mast and guy it that way. Super easy to set up. I think I show that if you search for my MFJ-1917 video.

alwas cool to hit alaska,.. i know the feeling, from bahrain on the beach,.. cheers mike 73 😉

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Yes it is. I just worked the northwest territory of CA today on 20. That was almost as far! 73

I have the 9:1. I’m getting my first HF 100w radio, will the EFHW handle that much power? Looks like OH8STN likes it up to 45w (but that doesn’t speak to the rating…which is not indicated on the packtenna site)

@hamradiotube

Жыл бұрын

All PackTenna antennas will handle 100 watts SSB. Digital and CW I'd prob keep it way under 50 for sure. A good way to tell if you are putting too much power into it, after a while you will see your SWR go way up. What is happening is the toroid is heating up. What we call being "over saturated". It won't be broken though. It just needs to cool down and will go back to working again. IF that happens, just turn your power down until you can operate without issue.

@Andrew-dg7qm

Жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube that’s very helpful, thank you

How did you stabalize the mast?

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

I guyed it

I have one of these I will follow your to see if I get the same results... I tried radials but really did not change anything. 73 Jerry de K7ER

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah they don't really seem to make a difference. Love the antenna though.

Sir I'm new to the ham life and got a question, I just ordered the Ft991a will this be a good first antenna and what pole you using? Oh and I'm going for my Technician License today in Lake Charles, LA. 73

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

If you want to do portable HF it is a fantastic antenna so when you pass your Technician today go for General, it's free. They aren't made for permanent setup though. You would need to get something that is better shielded from the elements for that. I'm using a no longer available 10 meter carbon fiber telescopic mast from Goture. Haven't found a good replacement to recommend to people that is that tall but I do like the Sotabeams Carbon 6.

@weslofton886

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube can I use this antenna with vuhf till I get my hf? I under stand about leaving it out with the weather. What antenna would you advice.

What ham log system do you use on you iPad Mini during POTA? Jim-W3COX

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

This: www.hamrs.app

@jimcox9571

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube Thanks, Mike

Hi Mike. Will get the antenna when it becomes available again. What pole are you using? Also what coax and length are you using. We're you operating at 100 watts or were you QRP? Apologies for all the questions, still learning. Enjoy the videos. Paul K4XRA

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Hi Paul. In this video I’m using a no longer available Goture Sparkol 10 meter carbon mast. I think the coax I’m using is about 40’ of rg8x, but I’ve used all kinds and lengths. I like the really thin RG316 I think it is that PackTenna sells when I’m running qrp. In this video I was running 100 watts. PackTennas are rated for 100 watts ssb.

This type of "Endfeds" surely works! I have one full-size (80-10m bands) permanently installed in my home shack designed for high power and the other , shortened 80-10m , as my most favourite portable antenna for park activations. The shortened version being only some 23m long works surprisingly well even on 80m band covering all my local and European wide QSO needs during activation on this band. I was very satisfied by the results so I decided to make a video on the field test of this antenna and it's available on my YT channel. After watching your nice video I'm curious now if this shortened version would work equally nice with the Packtenna transformer as it did with the transformer from Myantennas.com in my set-up... If anybody's tried this out I'd be glad to know! 73! Linas LY2H

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

The cool thing with this is you can add wire to make it resonant however you like. I don't know if I'd ever add more to get on 80 as I don't really get on that band but the option is always there. It's pretty wide banded too. I've not used the Myantennas but I would imagine the principle is much the same. This is prob more suited for portable due to its size and weight.

What pray tell did you use to crimp the wire together for the loop? Getting ready to setup my Packtenna EFHW like yours :)

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

I soldered mini banana connectors. amzn.to/3qVHHje

@ai5dd

2 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube I got that part, I'm talking about the silver to bind the cables together before the loop, it looks like a small crimp.

@MrKubota55

2 жыл бұрын

AI5DD, they use a 14ga ferrule and then crimp. Works great.

Just wondering what your favorite antenna really is? Seems like everyone you test is your favorite.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I suppose that comes with the territory being an antenna nerd, but I will say for sure the DX Commander Expedition is in the top 2. A PackTenna would be the other fav but I just can't pick which one. I really do like them all for different reasons. Because the EFHW has the most resonant bands I suppose I would chose that one.

What did you use to crimp the wires together for strain relief?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I have some ferrules George sent me a while ago for the linked dipole. If you can't find those, you could just snake the wire through the 3 holes of the carabiner and not crimp at all. That would be way easier and just as effective.

@KGraham

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube Thank you. I bought a bunch of the carabiners from George. I'll use those.

What is the mast you use? Looks very portable. Doug

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

Unobtanium but its a 10 meter Goture Sparkol Carbon Fiber Mast

Mike, please do the full version of your CQ theme song and make a ham radio themed rock video. You da man to do it. Who cares how cheesy it might be. You rawk dude! 73 W8XDX

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

Sorry to tell you that is the full version lol! Thanks for watching! 73

How much power were you running?

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

90 watts.

Hey if you had a 1000 Euro of budget, were new to the hobby and had absolutly no equipmen (execpt for a nano vna and a sdrplay), would want to do POTA as well as home Operation , would live in an Appartment with no space for big Antennas and would like to work mainly 20m and below (maybe 40 as well compromised) on SSB what would you pack to your Backpack as an "all inklusive compromise solution" (so it is still carriable) ?.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I would get a Yaesu FT-891, some type of battery capable of handling the current draw (I prefer LiFePO4 batteries), and probably this antenna. If you make links like I did, you can add enough wire for 40 meters to get 40, 20, 15, and 10, or you could add enough wire for 80 meters and that will get you all the bands, most of which not needing a tuner. That's a really tough question for me to answer though as I have a lot of different antennas that I like to play with. There is usually a compromise to be made somewhere. While this antenna is resonant on a lot of bands, they can get quite long and you need the space to get it up. For super small, compact size and 80-6, you can't go wrong with a Wolf River Coils antenna. You could also add a tuner into the mix (auto or manual) and use a 9:1 antenna to get all the bands too. I think any combination of these will keep you within budget. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching and 73.

@pulponair

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube Thank you. The ft891 definetly seems to be "the device" for my requierments, that is for sure. Regarding the antenna I think i ll go for some sort of shortend vertical. Eigther WRC based (hard to impossible to get over here) or that cheap MP1 Clone we have over here. Wire Antennas that requiere a Mast can be added to the mix later anyway. For Home operation i ll probably use 2 different DIY Magloops that i am building atm. One for 10-20m and the secod for 20 - 40m. Thanks for the great videos i really enjoy watching, very motivating. They acutally made me want to do POTA as well :)

What mast is that? I’m getting into POTA and SOTA and I’m looking for a decent mast that won’t break the bank

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Its a Goture Sparkol 10 meter carbon fiber mast

Went to the Packtenna shop, everything sold out.. Not sure what the deal is here

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Yes they are. I explained that towards the end of the video. They are currently manufacturing more antennas at the moment. I think they are waiting on their supplier of wire and then will send everything to their production facility. You can email/get updates at PackTenna@groups.io Hopefully it won't be too long. Thanks for watching and 73!

Hi Mike. What park is that? I use a 130ft EFHW wire at the home QTH with a 49:1 UnUn and an in-line choke. Have a 130ft counterpoise. Far end about 25 feet high, near end about 12 feet high. Surrounded by tall trees and blocked by a hill to the Northeast. When conditions are right I work the world with 100 watts. BTW, I’ve worked you twice :) Thanks for the videos and POTA contacts. Mel, K2JWD.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Hey Mel, thanks for the contacts. This is at Proud Lake State Recreation Area. I've got another end fed but I never use it cuz its only for qrp and is 130' long. Not ideal for me but it works great.

@k2jwd

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube Just worked Lithuania on 75m last night with the EFHW - 59 :) EFHW antennas are simple and work great!

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

@@k2jwd wow that's awesome!

So this antenna is gtg out of the box for 20m. So no need to cut it?

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

No, it comes long. You need to cut it for the portion of the band you want.

@kurt53641

2 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube ok. Pardon me being a newb. So my next question is. How long do I need it and for what band? Can I add to this to include a lot more bands and if so, does it still does not need an antenna tuner?

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

@@kurt53641 All that is in the video but you should always cut long and trim. Your conditions will be different than mine & results will vary so don't just go by what I say. You can add as many elements as you want by linking the way I show though.

More importantly where did you get that tape measure! :-)

@hamradiotube

Жыл бұрын

Harbor Freight.

Great job! Wait til you hit Chile. There's a station that comes up during the Gray Line time and I've reached him twice with 20 watts SSB and he's all the way South in the Patagonia Region. I bet you can get him.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

That would be a great contact for sure. I don't usually get many dx contacts coming back to my call when I'm doing POTA.

@walteredwards544

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube I can imagine but the conditions are stradily improving. Listen up for CE7VPQ

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

@@walteredwards544 Yes they are, and will do.

Mike, I see that pactenna is sold out of everything. Is it a supply issue or are they in trouble?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

It’s really neither. They are just a small company and they sell out very quick. They are making more now but it might be a few more weeks before they are back in stock. They have a groups.io you can follow for updates.

@BiggBake

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube Cool, thanks for responding so quick. I was just about to pull the trigger on a buddistick. Welcome to Texas!

@off-trailseeking3965

2 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube September 1st, 2021 and they are still sold out of most items.

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

@@off-trailseeking3965 perhaps you don’t read the other comments where I say to get on their groups.io so you can find out when they have more? They have had at least 2 batches of these antennas in the last 6 months.

What mast did you use in that video?

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I can't find it anymore but it's a Goture Sparkol 10 meter carbon fiber mast.

@GunsandRadios

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube great video thanks for the replies your one of the few you tubers that reply to a question. Keep up the good work. W0WAL

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

@@GunsandRadios No problem. Glad to help. I just wish this mast was still around, I would get another one.

@GunsandRadios

3 жыл бұрын

@@hamradiotube I found this but it comes via donkey train and sampan. www.aliexpress.com/item/32937555710.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.73081576Vx1I3m&algo_pvid=1a833215-ce54-4c39-83e2-5499c261a9e6&algo_expid=1a833215-ce54-4c39-83e2-5499c261a9e6-3&btsid=0bb0620316030463273122290e1703&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_,searchweb201603_

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

@@GunsandRadios Yeah I saw those too after doing some more looking around. That's what I'm using. Honestly thinking about buying another one. I really like them. It's just trusting it to come from china without the 'Rona now...

80 meters? Seems you'd want more ferrite. I use double stack ft 240-43.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I haven't used this on 80

excellent Josh impersonation 😂😂.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

haha thanks!

Alaska is a good one!

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Def was not expecting that!

@chucksw1

3 жыл бұрын

Is this the 26g wire you used to extend to 40m ? www.davisrf.com/antenna-wire/polystealth.php

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

@@chucksw1 That is what I'm using yes. Couldn't find the link to where I actually bought it though.

Never mind about the mast, just saw the link...LOL thanks!! KD9NIT

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

the link in the description is not the mast I'm using in this video. I'm using a Goture Sparkol 10 meter carbon fiber mast. I got it off amazon a year or so ago but they arent available there anymore. The only place I have seen them now is on aliexpres www.aliexpress.com/item/32937555710.html?src=google&albch=shopping&acnt=494-037-6276&isdl=y&slnk=&plac=&mtctp=&albbt=Google_7_shopping&aff_platform=google&aff_short_key=UneMJZVf&&albagn=888888&albcp=9594035441&albag=102695258807&trgt=296904913880&crea=en32937555710&netw=u&device=c&albpg=296904913880&albpd=en32937555710&gclid=CjwKCAjwlbr8BRA0EiwAnt4MTjxUaGHG-0Xe7I_ybldrj52kA9mr96PneB6QUhMgPGhNw36orSNc1hoCqLAQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

I've been blackballed, didn't make the cut. LOL!

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

What?? I put everyone but 1 contact in here who was so low the mic didn't pic it up. Maybe that was you?

I get the feeling most of them are bought instantly and hoarded by the "ham elite" with day one intell. I slept on the pavement for a Wii in 2006 seems the same effort is needed here.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I don’t think that’s the case. They are in high demand with lots of people monitoring their groups.io for updates. I don’t know how many they make at a time but I suspect it is not enough. Keep in mind this is just a side project for George as he has a full time job. Good things come to those who wait.

KC3NLS logged you.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the contact, 73!

Freakin Alaska! I ordered it and it’s your fault😂

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I'll take that fault, and you will thank me for it! Make lots of contacts. 73

Thanks for contact!!!!! Mike K4NYX

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

Hey thank you. 73

You need a stand mic and a foot switch. Then you could type w both hands, +_+

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

I use those at home but its not practical to take portable.

I have located the source of birdies.

@hamradiotube

3 жыл бұрын

It was me all along lol!

Dude how do I get a hold of you? I’m on QRZ, please send me an email. There is an email link on the page.

@hamradiotube

2 жыл бұрын

k8mrd@icloud.com

This is my go to POTA antenna here in Wa. Thanks Mike. Check out my ch.

@thelandrethfarm4782

2 жыл бұрын

K7DFL

METRIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

@hamradiotube

Жыл бұрын

It’s the best