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Reviews For: Gulf Alpha 2 Meter 3x3-70 CM 5x5 Circular Polarized Satellite Sy

Category: Antennas: VHF/UHF+ Directional (Yagi, quad, etc.)

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Review Summary For : Gulf Alpha 2 Meter 3x3-70 CM 5x5 Circular Polarized Satellite Sy
Reviews: 1MSRP: 349.00
Description:
This is designed for satellite operation and has circular polarization.(RHCP)
Both sets of elements optimized in satellite band. The elements are spaced
1/4 wavelength on the boom and then fed with two phasing cables each cut
to 3/4 electrical wavelength in the center of the satellite band and produces
circular polarization. Unit is supplied with phasing lines and T connector.
Antenna is constructed of the finest materials, 6061 corrosion resistant
aluminum. Elements are 3/16" dia. except for the driven element which is
1/4" dia. (solid rods). Uses superior T match system and coaxial balun (Times
Microwave LMR 240) for 50 ohm balanced load. Unit is CAD designed for the
mechanical structure and computer optimized for electrical characteristics.
These antennas are constructed with the utmost precision, assuring you of
top performance. All hardware is stainless steel except for the U bolts which
are zinc plated. Antenna is designed to last indefinately while providing
superior performance.
Product is in production
More Info: http://www.gulfalphaantennas.com/
# last 180 days Avg. Rating last 180 days Total reviews Avg. overall rating
0015
AJ1O Rating: 2009-07-30
Very portable and work well. Time Owned: 0 to 3 months.
First of all, Pete at Gulf Alpha designed this product in response to my desire for a small set of CP sat antennas. How cool is that?

I have been very happy with the short CP yagis on the FM birds. Signals are S9+.

I use a MSP432VDG-160 preamp for the 70cm downlink. Even with the preamp off, signals are powerful. SSB birds are easy to copy but I feel a 2m preamp would help a bit.

A polarity switch has not been something I've needed (yet). The RHCP seems to work well.

I love the quality of construction and assembly was easy. SWR is better than advertised. I also like the small size of these antennas. I live in a very windy area and having less antenna wind-load area is a good thing. I am also planning to install the antennas, rotors and tripod on a small trailer for portable operations. They are small enough to leave everything assembled (with a few bungees) during transport.

My only concern is the size and thickness of the phasing cables compared to the antennas. They are quite beefy and a little tricky to manage on a short cross boom. I had to loop the 2m phasing cables and zip-tie them to the boom to get them out of the way. Not a huge design flaw or anything. Just a small annoyance. Seems like a thinner, more flexible cable might be the way to go for the phasing lines.

Communication and support from Gulf Alpha is first rate. One of the parts was damaged in shipment and Pete had a replacement to me within a week.

I am very pleased!