J-Pole Antenna by K4TAX Pompano Beach, FL Formula: Short element (2878/fMHz) 146MHZ -> 16.71" Long element ((K*(5904/kMHz))+(2878/fMHz)) 146MHz -> 56.39" Balun (3897/fMHz) based on velocity factor of .66 146MHz -> 26.75" (K factor is ratio of diameter to wavelength) Construction: 96" - 1/2" rigid copper pipe 1 - 1/2" copper 90 degree elbow 1 - 1/2" copper "T" 2 - 5/8" hose SS clamps 2 - 1/2" pipe caps 1 - 1/2" copper to NPT adaptor 1 - 1/2" deck NPT deck flange Clean all joints with stel wool or fine grit sandpaper. Using a propane torch, solder all joints using flux & plumbing solder. ____________________________ | | | | | | | | | | 56.39" _ _____ | | | | | | | | | | 19.71" | | _|____________________|_____ |____| | ^ NOTE: All measurements made from | bottom of the "J" (see ^) | Spacing between the long element and short element is not critical but should be a MAX of 2". (Join the T and the Elbow with a 1" length of pipe) The base section below the "T" is the remainder of the pipe after cutting the long and short element and the 1" piece used to couple the elbow and the "T". Final mounting can be accomplished by adding a 1/2" "sweat to NPT" fitting at the bottom of the antenna and the using a deck flange for surface mounting. The feed point is approximately 3" from the bottom of the "J". Connect the center wires of the balun to each element using a hose clamp. Adjust the feed point up of down for the best match using a SWR bridge. Keep each feed point at equal heights above the bottom of the "J". Once the best SWR is found, mark the position, remove the hose clamp and solder the wire to each element. Use care so as to not overheat the center conductor or dielectric of the coax. The coax and balun shields are not connected to the antenna. Seal coax ends with BLACK silicone sealer. CAUTION: Outside installation of the J-Pole must provide a proper ground for lightening protection.