[IRCA] Monster PVC-Frame Passive Loops

[D1028Gary@xxxxxxx]

Hello All,
 
The annual "March Madness" antenna project here this year was to construct  
a series of tuned passive loops, using ultra-cheap PVC tubing and fittings. 
 Loops of 18", 2', 3', 4', 5', 6' and 7.5' (side dimensions) were  
assembled, using PVC diameters suitable to support each size without any  sagging.
 
One of the primary design considerations was to isolate the loops from the  
support structures as much as possible, to provide clean electromagnetic  
reception patterns. Perfect symmetry of the coils was also an important  
objective, with equally-spaced wire slots cut in each of four frame tubes, and  
the tuning capacitor located exactly at the loop ends, with the far end of 
the  loop routed through a short PVC tube to the capacitor. These steps seem 
to have  provided maximum sensitivity and nulling ability for each loop size.
 
Lightweight, rugged, waterproof PVC was found to be an ideal frame material 
 for tuned passive loops, and of course, it is also ultra-cheap  (even in 
the larger sizes). The 7.5 foot (side) monster loop frame cost all of  $35 to 
build, and the cost of the "tabletop" 18-inch model frame was about  $7. 
The 7.5 foot (10 foot diagonal) PVC loop does require some serious real  
estate for construction, however, and is certainly not recommended if you have a  
shaky relationship with any of your neighbors :>)
 
Photos of the 18", 2' and 7.5' PVC loops have been uploaded to the  
Ultralightdx Yahoo group site, and are available upon request. An article  
containing full construction details for these new PVC-frame loops should  be 
written shortly, which hopefully will provide a new, inexpensive option for  
boosting the DXing ability of any receiver.
 
73, Gary DeBock
 
 
        
 
 
**************Why pay full price? Check out this month's deals on the new 
AOL Shopping. (http://shopping.aol.com/?ncid=emlcntinstor00000001)
_______________________________________________
IRCA mailing list
IRCA@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://montreal.kotalampi.com/mailman/listinfo/irca

Opinions expressed in messages on this mailing list are those of the original contributors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the IRCA, its editors, publishing staff, or officers

For more information: http://www.ircaonline.org

To Post a message: irca@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx