Tape Measure HT Antenna

[KB1OCC]

OK, I've built a tape measure 2 meter beam/DF antenna that works great.  I'd like to build a tape measure HT antenna by soldering 19" or so of a tape measure tape onto a BNC connector that fits one of my HTs.  I was trhinking of using a rat's tail as a counterpoise.

What do you guys think?  Are there any products out there like it?  I am going to try to locate some narrow tape that will still stay straight at 19".

What do you think about a 1/2 wave?

[KE4DRN]

hi Brian,

can you use a short cable to connect instead of
direct to the bnc on the ht ?

these connectors can get stressed easily and
will need to be replaced.

how about a pair of telescopic antenna rods
mounted to a piece of pvc ?

http://www.allelectronics.com/make-a-store/item/ANT-34/20.75-TELESCOPING-ANTENNA/1.html

73 james

[WX7G]

I like your invention!

I have seen these tiny tape measures at Home Depot that might work.

For a radial you holding the handheld serve that purpose. Of course a 19" radial will improve the situation.

For the halfwave you need (as you know) a matching circuit. A parallel resonant LC having and X of 500 ohms or less will work. Then tap along the inductor for a 50 ohm match.