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Author Topic: Built in antenna's  (Read 699 times)

KB8VUL

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Re: Built in antenna's
« Reply #15 on: January 30, 2020, 04:21:33 PM »

What I was trying to get at is there are times that you have to compromise.  And in some situations, you have to look CLOSELY at the rules and stay within the SPECIFICS of what the rules say.  If it says No visible antennas, then you build an antenna system that is not visible.  If that means calling a contractor to put up new vinyl soffit and fascia and hid an HF dipole in it, then that's what you do. 

You would actually be hard pressed to find a CC&R written that specified no RF transmitting devices over 2 watts anywhere about the property. 
It's just going to say, no visible antennas, no towers, no this or that.  So you work within the boundaries of the rules.  And IF you get called on the carpet on it, you say that the rules clearly state X.... and I was within the scope of the rules. 

And there is NO reason that if you can get permission, and a written variance to install a flag pole that you shouldn't take up the yard, lay ground radials and put a matching network at the base of the pole driving it.  If you can't see it, it's not their concern.  And if the question is raised, it's a flag pole.  The fact you are connecting to it for other reasons isn't relevant.  If you can walk out and fly a flag from it, it's still a flag pole.  The fact you are using it as an antenna is a secondary operation and not outside to scope of the variance... Unless the variance specifically says you CAN'T use the flagpole for secondary uses, such as an antenna, then legally, you should be fine.  It might take an argument in a court room with a lawyer, but once the argument is done, it's done.

Is this going to have the same ability to talk like I can?  Of course not.  I am at the highest point in the county before I go up another 240 feet.  I am less than 10 miles Southeast of the center of Ohio and I can talk from the roof (20feet AGL) to repeaters in three of the four major cities in Ohio.  And from the tower I can get into Toledo as well.  Is a compromise antenna going to do that?  Of course not.  But you also don't have two electric bills, two TAX bills, and a federal regulation requiring a flashing light on the peak of your roof, that if it goes out and you don't inform the correct people, you can be fined $4000 A DAY for that light being burnt out.  So even with having a monster tower, there is compromise in having it. And although the HOA can't seize my house over a violation, the gubment can sure fine the crap put of me.
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KB8VUL

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Re: Built in antenna's
« Reply #16 on: January 30, 2020, 04:23:24 PM »

Oh, and I forgot to mention.  As far as running wires in walls and the like.
Go research knob and peg wiring.  Which was done for YEARS.
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N8AUC

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Re: Built in antenna's
« Reply #17 on: January 30, 2020, 05:36:10 PM »

Yes, there are some shortcomings to putting your HF antennas below 50 feet. 

That depends on your intended application.
If you're chasing DX, well, yeah lower than 50' is a bit of a limitation.
But if you're going for more regional comms, NVIS works great.
And in that case, being lower than 50 feet is an asset.

Were I in an HOA setting, I'd find some way, some how, to be able to play radio.

73 de N8AUC
Eric
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N8AUC

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Re: Built in antenna's
« Reply #18 on: January 30, 2020, 05:37:22 PM »

Rule 3, any antenna is better than a bucket of wire in storage.

Allison

Amen. Preach it, Allison.
Couldn't agree more.

73 de N8AUC
Eric
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VE3PP

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Re: Built in antenna's
« Reply #19 on: January 31, 2020, 11:01:08 AM »

I am surprised that no one mentioned Mag Loops for HOA amateurs.

Put them outside in your back yard when you want to operate. Put them back in the garage or storage shed when not in use (Do HOA communities allow storage sheds?)

Or build a wood fence as high as you legally can and leave the Mag Loops outside all the time.

And don't let everyone fool you. Not all hams have 50-100 foot towers with massive yagis and dipoles mounted on them.

I have been operating 28 years and my highest antenna is a 2 element tri band at 33 feet. Lots of DX worked and lots of great QSO's with those low antennas. Sure I wish my 75/40 fan dipole was apexed at 75 feet but that isn't going to happen.

Operate with what you can operate with and have fun while doing it.  :D
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KF7CG

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Re: Built in antenna's
« Reply #20 on: April 23, 2020, 03:34:22 PM »

Here is a built-in idea if you can get a classic New England coastal home design into the development. Many homes were built with a watch tower attacked to the house. Build the house with the lower portion of the watfch tower being habitable rooms but at the top most floor make a place for a rotatable beam. Now you have a house with a beam that has easy access for tuning, and a sheltered area for working on it. How's that for stealth?
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KF5KWO

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Re: Built in antenna's
« Reply #21 on: April 24, 2020, 12:04:07 PM »

...
I managed to put a 33' vertical in my yard which is no more than a wire inside an free-standing fiberglass pole which is painted black. I connected the antenna to 16 buried radial wires.  The pole is situated next to some trees so it blends in with the scenery.
...

I've got the same thing! Out there in the trees, radials and all, great antenna. I use it as a listening antenna for all bands as well. 

73 de Jeff, KF5KWO
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