Vertical Antenna Length Calculator
Enter frequency in MHz to calculate the length for ¼, ½, and ⅝ wave vertical antennas.
📡 How to Build a Simple Vertical Antenna
Materials:
- Aluminum or copper wire/tubing (length based on calculator)
- Insulated base or mount
- Radials (for ¼-wave, typically 3–4 wires at least as long as the vertical)
- Coax feedline (50Ω, like RG-8X or LMR-400)
- Optional: choke balun or current balun near feedpoint
Instructions:
- Use the calculator to find the antenna length.
- Cut the radiating element (¼, ½, or ⅝ wave) to the calculated length.
- Mount vertically with a non-conductive base support.
- For ¼-wave antennas, attach 3–4 radials horizontally or slightly downward.
- Solder or clamp the coax center to the vertical element, and shield to radials or ground.
- Mount as high and clear of obstructions as practical.
Test the antenna with an SWR meter or antenna analyzer and trim if needed. Use weatherproofing if installed outdoors.
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