Embarrassingly Simple Antenna Question...

[KW6CSS]

Hello All,

This will probably seem like a really simple question, but here goes...

I have been a "listener" for years, and have a nice Alpha-Delta DX dipole hooked up to my Drake receiver and it works great.  I am just now getting my first transmitter, an old Heathkit DX-60. 

My problem is that I would like to use the same antenna on both radios simultaneously.  Is that a possibility?  I don't want to fry my receiver when I transmit...

I'm sure this can work, but I'm not quite sure how.  I've seen plenty of switches which let you use multiple antennas on the same rig, one at a time, but not this.

Any help is appreciated!  Thanks-
Mike KI6BXK

[W4VR]

Several manufacturers make a device to switch your antenna between transmitter and receiver.  MFJ sells an RF-sensing T/R switch (Model 1708) that allows you to receive on the antenna and when you transmit it senses the RF and connects your antenna to your transmitter.  I believe it costs around $80.

[KW6CSS]

Thanks! The 1708 looks perfect...  I'm not sure how I missed that, since I look at my MFJ catalog on a daily basis.   

I'd much rather invest in that than put up a 2nd antenna.  (Especially since the DX-60 may or may not completely work...)

Thanks for the reply to the rookie question that I really should know...

[KB2WIG]

Embarrassingly simple question..... do you have the manual fer the dixie sixty?

http://www.mods.dk/manual.php?brand=heathkit

" use the same antenna on both radios simultaneously.  Is that a possibility? "

The simple answer is  ~Yes You Can~

But you want to switch the antenna between yer Drake and the '60.

What kinda Drake??

klc

[AD5X]

Look at the "Boat Anchor T/R Switch" in the "Articles" section of my website at www.ad5x.com.  Simple, cheap, and works well.

Phil - AD5X

[KW6CSS]

I MAY be getting the manual too...  The guy I'm getting it from may or may not be able to find it.  Fingers crossed... I'll drop you a line if I have success- It might "inadvertantly" fall onto a copy machine somehow...

As for the Drake, it's an old SW1 that works great.  I am going to need to have both hooked up and working on the antenna at the same time in order to carry on a communication with anyone, since I would like to hear both sides of my conversation...

I'm thinking that MFJ-1708 may be perfect for me.

[K5LXP]

If you want to keep it true to the vintage of a DX-60, find a dow key relay.  I've seen them for as little as $5 at hamfests.


Mark K5LXP
Albuquerque, NM

[KA4POL]

See http://www.amwindow.org/tech/htm/dx60ptt.htm
If you need help forthe DX-60 there is a very supportive Yahoo group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/heathkit/?yguid=55990539

[K4SAV]

You probably already know this, but just in case, the DX-60 is crystal controlled.  You will need a VFO or some crystals.