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Backstay Antenna and tuners

Jul 20th 2016, 23:34

KC1FCW

Joined: Feb 26th 2016, 11:35
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
I have recently received my technicians License and wish to put together a station on my sailing vessel using by backstay for the antenna. Typically the set-up is for Marine SSB which is very limited now a days. So I am figuring I will use the backstay as the antenna with an antenna tuner, I have a dynaplate and the seacocks are also grounded to the plate making the reflector. My big question is with my limited license and the range of tuning an antenna can tune, what is my best bet for a "rig". Power will be 13.8+ no problem with the engine running. Any help I would greatly appreciate it. It does look to me that the 50mhz bands are going to be my limit for most tuners. Am I right? And if so, do I plan on mostly using local repeater stations for my contacts. I need a good Elmer familiar with backstay antennas, tuners and marine rig set-ups would be great!
Thanks for any help I might be able to get!
Jul 21st 2016, 14:58

W1VT

Super Moderator

Joined: Apr 4th 1998, 00:00
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
You need to upgrade to at least a General Class license, as nearly all sailors are on 20 meters.

Zack Lau W1VT
ARRL Senior Lab Engineer
Jul 21st 2016, 17:06

KC1FCW

Joined: Feb 26th 2016, 11:35
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
I'm beginning to understand that. 14.225 to 14.350. Would you suggest a best bet for "rigs" and antenna tuners?
Jul 25th 2016, 14:00

W1VT

Super Moderator

Joined: Apr 4th 1998, 00:00
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
One approach is to start off by looking at the most popular tuners and rigs on this review site
http://www.eham.net/reviews/products/3
Antenna Tuner Reviews
http://www.eham.net/reviews/products/14
Rig Reviews

Zack Lau W1VT
ARRL Senior Lab Engineer

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