NF1J Antenna Workshop
A separate antenna page keeps the NF1J homepage quick while giving builders a focused library of HF, VHF, portable, and home-station antenna projects.
Antenna measurements are starting points. Real tuning changes with wire size, nearby metal, mounting height, feed line routing, ground, and weatherproofing.
Antenna Calculator
Use these as cutting estimates, then tune the finished antenna in its real installed position.
Build Guides
Each guide has a large printable-style illustration, measurements, materials, tuning notes, and external references for deeper reading.
A simple center-fed HF antenna for a first home station, portable setup, or quick test antenna. The example targets 14.2 MHz.
Cut a little long, raise it near final height, then trim both legs evenly for lowest SWR.
A rugged VHF vertical that works well as a base antenna when mounted high and clear on a nonconductive support.
Move the feed point slightly up or down for best match, and add a feed-line choke near the antenna.
A light directional handheld beam for fox hunts, repeater work, portable operation, and learning antenna directionality.
Insulate the driven element from the boom, smooth sharp tape ends, and check SWR before transmitting.
A simple 28.4 MHz rectangular loop with bidirectional gain and a straightforward 50-ohm coax feed in this example.
Use nonconductive spreaders when possible. Height and conductor material can shift tuning.
Safety First
Never install antennas near overhead power lines. Use proper weatherproofing, strain relief, mast support, grounding where appropriate, and check local rules before permanent installation.