1x16 elements DK7ZB antenna for 432 MHz
My Requirements:
- Needs to work for EME at 432 MHz (15.5 dBd / 16 elements has been used successfully by others)
- Needs to work for satellite communication (needs to elevate: can not be to long)
- Linear polarization has proven to work fine for Cubesats (avoid complex circular polarization)
Selected design by DK7ZB
Performance:
Gain 15,5dBd
Front/Back > 40dB
3dB-angle (hor) = 24,4°
3dB-angle (ver) = 25,4°
Construction:
Cutting the elements at exactly the right length:
Drilling holes in the elements, isolation created from plastic waterhose:
Assembling the elements on the boom:
The 28 to 50 ohm transformer:
Measuring the SWR in the backyard, SWR is high (1:1.5) due to the surrounding materials:
Mounted next to the 2x6 elements 145 MHz DK7ZB (this set-up can be elevated for satellite tracking):