---------------------------------------------------------- Kolb-List Digest Archive --- Total Messages Posted Thu 11/05/15: 12 ---------------------------------------------------------- Today's Message Index: ---------------------- 0. 11:54 AM - Coming Soon - The List of Contributors - Please Make A Contribution Today! (Matt Dralle) 1. 12:29 AM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (GeoB) 2. 07:18 AM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (Richard Pike) 3. 07:59 AM - Re: Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (Herb) 4. 08:44 AM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (Richard Girard) 5. 09:31 AM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (Rex Rodebush) 6. 06:26 PM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (Dee LeBlanc) 7. 07:26 PM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (GeoB) 8. 07:39 PM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (B Young) 9. 07:48 PM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (B Young) 10. 07:51 PM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (B Young) 11. 07:59 PM - Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue (Herb) ________________________________ Message 0 _____________________________________ Time: 11:54:37 AM PST US From: Matt Dralle Subject: Kolb-List: Coming Soon - The List of Contributors - Please Make A Contribution Today! Each year at the end of the List Fund Raiser, I post a message acknowledging everyone that so generously made a Contribution to support the Lists. Its my way of publicly thanking everyone that took a minute to show their appreciation for the Lists. Please take a moment and assure that your name is on that List of Contributors (LOC)! As a number of members have pointed out over the years, the List seems at least as valuable a building / entertainment tool as your typical magazine subscription! Assure that your name is on this year's LOC! Show others that you appreciate the Lists. Making a Contribution to support the Lists is fast and easy using your Credit card or Paypal on the Secure Web Site: http://www.matronics.com/contribution or by dropping a personal check in the mail to: Matt Dralle / Matronics 581 Jeannie Way Livermore CA 94550 I would like to thank everyone that has so generously made a Contribution thus far in this year's List Fund Raiser! Remember that its YOUR support that keeps these Lists going and improving! Don't forget to include a little comment about how the Lists have helped you! Best regards, Matt Dralle Matronics Email List Administrator ________________________________ Message 1 _____________________________________ Time: 12:29:38 AM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: "GeoB" Herbgh(at)nctc.com wrote: > if the final is shot...one can still hear a > transmission some yards away. I think 1st thing I would do- cuz it's easy- is to simply test the radio against a known good one. Find a buddy, maybe most anyone at the airport on Saturday morning, find out how your radio works without the plane involved. If you don't have battery power I imagine you can plug into a car's 12v acc. plug. -------- GeoB "Members of Congress should be compelled to wear uniforms like NASCAR drivers, so we could identify their corporate sponsors" Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448760#448760 ________________________________ Message 2 _____________________________________ Time: 07:18:08 AM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: "Richard Pike" Lots of good advice, nothing to add in that area. Here are some pictures of how I made my antenna and where I put it. http://oh2fly.net/oldpoops/pg9.htm -------- Richard Pike Kolb MKIII N420P (420ldPoops) Kingsport, TN 3TN0 Would you consider yourself to be a good person? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWcDXT6pH7A Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448772#448772 ________________________________ Message 3 _____________________________________ Time: 07:59:48 AM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: Herb Richard and all. There was a time, when I had my Amateur Radio license, that I knew something about radio frequency propagation...not now however...but I dug up this design from the web...looks easy and is an inverted V which simulates a half wave antenna and requires no ground plane....Herb http://chrusion.com/BJ7/InvVeeAntenna4ULs.pdf On 11/05/2015 09:17 AM, Richard Pike wrote: > > Lots of good advice, nothing to add in that area. Here are some pictures of how I made my antenna and where I put it. > http://oh2fly.net/oldpoops/pg9.htm > > -------- > Richard Pike > Kolb MKIII N420P (420ldPoops) > Kingsport, TN 3TN0 > > Would you consider yourself to be a good person? > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWcDXT6pH7A > > > Read this topic online here: > > http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448772#448772 > > -- Signature text; Add catchy phrase here.. ________________________________ Message 4 _____________________________________ Time: 08:44:23 AM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: Richard Girard Dee, One thing to remember about antennae. Electrical ground and radio ground plane are not the same thing. I mounted my homemade antenna on the top of the nose cone with a six inch diameter piece of .025 aluminum inside the cone as the ground plane. ICT tower could hear me loud and clear as soon as I had line of sight from 28 miles and I could hear planes in the pattern at McPherson over 60 miles. When I flew the "plane from hell" home I had the same radio but with the rubber duck attached. Salina tower could not hear me at 6 miles. The best place to get antenna advice is a local ham radio operator or club. Someone is almost sure to have an antenna analyzer that will help you tune your antenna for optimum performance. Another good source is the Aeroelectric Connection right here on the Matronics Forums. Rick Girard On Wed, Nov 4, 2015 at 8:15 PM, Herb wrote: > > and do not forget to ground the engine to the airframe..I use braided > cable..Herb > > > On 11/04/2015 07:56 PM, John Hauck wrote: > >> >> I have had an ICOM A6 in my MKIII for some time now. It is a really goo d >> little radio. I use a 24" stainless steel ELT antenna mounted under the >> nose cone attached through a sheet aluminum ground plane. I also use a >> 20,000 to 25,000 uf installed to the positive and negative output wires on >> the voltage reg/rec. >> >> I frequently carry on conversations with Larry Cottrell's ICOM base >> station VHF at 75 to 80 sm. >> >> I have used handheld radios, STS, Bendix/King KX-99, ICOM A-24 and A-6, >> in all three of my Kolbs. That is all I need to make the flights over t he >> years from here to the Arctic Ocean. >> >> Another item I use to reduce noise picked up in the cockpit is a leather >> mike muff with a small hole on each side. I can't remember where I got >> mine, but here is one very similar and a little less expensive: >> >> http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/sep/10492 >> >> A good ground is absolutely essential for good performance. >> >> john h >> mkIII >> hauck's holler, Alabama >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto: >> owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Dee One >> Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 1:51 PM >> To: kolb-list@matronics.com >> Subject: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue >> >> >> Well, after six months of totally rebuilding my Mark 3, I completed the >> annual inspection, Test flight, I now have a couple hours on the new eng ine >> and rebuild airframe. >> >> My airport(L 38) is fairly busy=C3=A2=82=AC=C2 so I purchased two headsets, Intercom, >> and a ICOM A6 handheld. The problem is that my transmissions are weak an d >> barely readable. I have no experience with handheld radios. How can I >> remedy this problem? Your experience and recommendations are appreciated .. >> >> I am thinking that I will need a remote antenna of some sort. I also >> understand that it is best to install a remote antenna as for away from the >> engine (Rotax582)as possible. >> >> Thanks for your recommendations, >> Dee >> >> -------- >> The Past is History >> The Future is a Mystery >> Today is a Gift >> That=C3=A2=82=AC=84=A2s Why They Call it the Present >> >> >> >> >> Read this topic online here: >> >> http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448719#448719 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> > -- > Signature text; Add catchy phrase here.. > > =========== =========== =========== =========== =========== > > -- =9CBlessed are the cracked, for they shall let in the light.=9D Groucho Marx ________________________________ Message 5 _____________________________________ Time: 09:31:17 AM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: "Rex Rodebush" I have an Icom radio with external antenna under the fuselage cage. It is attached to a aluminum plate which also acts as a foot rest for the passenger. Works great and I can pick up transmissions from 50+ miles. My biggest problem was interference from the 912s engine. I bought a couple bags of chokes from Radio Shack and put them around every wire that I thought might cause a problem. Problem solved. Not sure which wire was the problem as I didn't take the time to test each wire separately. Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448783#448783 ________________________________ Message 6 _____________________________________ Time: 06:26:46 PM PST US From: Dee LeBlanc Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue I am currently installing an external antenna at the end of the wing (underneath). I did try the radio with the rubber duck antenna that came with the Icom A6 while on the ground and that provided a strong clear signal. I'm not running on ship=99s power yet; using ICOM A6 battery and a 9 V battery in my intercom. Question: what is the function of a ground plane at the base of an antenna? I do have room to add a ground plane if that will be beneficial. Also, is the orientation of an external antenna important? RSVP Thanks for all the advice, Dee LeBlanc leblancds@cox.net cell 225-802-1038 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The Past is History The Future is a Mystery Today is a Gift That=99s Why They Call it the Present > On Nov 5, 2015, at 10:44 AM, Richard Girard wrote: > > Dee, One thing to remember about antennae. Electrical ground and radio ground plane are not the same thing. I mounted my homemade antenna on the top of the nose cone with a six inch diameter piece of .025 aluminum inside the cone as the ground plane. ICT tower could hear me loud and clear as soon as I had line of sight from 28 miles and I could hear planes in the pattern at McPherson over 60 miles. > When I flew the "plane from hell" home I had the same radio but with the rubber duck attached. Salina tower could not hear me at 6 miles. > The best place to get antenna advice is a local ham radio operator or club. Someone is almost sure to have an antenna analyzer that will help you tune your antenna for optimum performance. > Another good source is the Aeroelectric Connection right here on the Matronics Forums. > > Rick Girard > > On Wed, Nov 4, 2015 at 8:15 PM, Herb > wrote: > > > and do not forget to ground the engine to the airframe..I use braided cable..Herb > > > On 11/04/2015 07:56 PM, John Hauck wrote: > > > I have had an ICOM A6 in my MKIII for some time now. It is a really good little radio. I use a 24" stainless steel ELT antenna mounted under the nose cone attached through a sheet aluminum ground plane. I also use a 20,000 to 25,000 uf installed to the positive and negative output wires on the voltage reg/rec. > > I frequently carry on conversations with Larry Cottrell's ICOM base station VHF at 75 to 80 sm. > > I have used handheld radios, STS, Bendix/King KX-99, ICOM A-24 and A-6, in all three of my Kolbs. That is all I need to make the flights over the years from here to the Arctic Ocean. > > Another item I use to reduce noise picked up in the cockpit is a leather mike muff with a small hole on each side. I can't remember where I got mine, but here is one very similar and a little less expensive: > > http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/sep/10492 > > A good ground is absolutely essential for good performance. > > john h > mkIII > hauck's holler, Alabama > > -----Original Message----- > From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com ] On Behalf Of Dee One > Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 1:51 PM > To: kolb-list@matronics.com > Subject: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue > > > > Well, after six months of totally rebuilding my Mark 3, I completed the annual inspection, Test flight, I now have a couple hours on the new engine and rebuild airframe. > > My airport(L 38) is fairly busy=C3=A2=82=AC=C2 so I purchased two headsets, Intercom, and a ICOM A6 handheld. The problem is that my transmissions are weak and barely readable. I have no experience with handheld radios. How can I remedy this problem? Your experience and recommendations are appreciated. > > I am thinking that I will need a remote antenna of some sort. I also understand that it is best to install a remote antenna as for away from the engine (Rotax582)as possible. > > Thanks for your recommendations, > Dee > > -------- > The Past is History > The Future is a Mystery > Today is a Gift > That=C3=A2=82=AC=84=A2s Why They Call it the Present > > > > > Read this topic online here: > > http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448719#448719 > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > -- > Signature text; Add catchy phrase here.. > > > ========== > br> fts!) > r> > href="http://www.buildersbooks.com " rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">www.buildersbooks.com > rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution > -Matt Dralle, List Admin. > ========== > -List" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List > ========== > FORUMS - > eferrer" target="_blank">http://forums.matronics.com > ========== > b Site - > -Matt Dralle, List Admin. > rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution > ========== > > > > > > > -- > =9CBlessed are the cracked, for they shall let in the light. =9D Groucho Marx ________________________________ Message 7 _____________________________________ Time: 07:26:24 PM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: "GeoB" Rex Rodebush wrote: > > bought a couple bags of chokes from Radio Shack These looked like lil transformers with two wires? Or were they toroids? How much did they cost? You use any by-pass caps? -------- GeoB "Members of Congress should be compelled to wear uniforms like NASCAR drivers, so we could identify their corporate sponsors" Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448867#448867 ________________________________ Message 8 _____________________________________ Time: 07:39:09 PM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: B Young the coax has 2 wires,, inner conductor and the braid. the center conductor connects to the antenna whip,,, the braid connects to the ground plane. the whip is half of the antenna, the ground plane is the other half. the size and shape of the ground plane affects t On Nov 5, 2015 7:29 PM, "Dee LeBlanc" wrote: > I am currently installing an external antenna at the end of the wing > (underneath). I did try the radio with the rubber duck antenna that came > with the Icom A6 while on the ground and that provided a strong clear > signal. I'm not running on ship=99s power yet; using ICOM A6 batter y and a 9 > V battery in my intercom. Question: what is the function of a ground plan e > at the base of an antenna? I do have room to add a ground plane if that > will be beneficial. Also, is the orientation of an external antenna > important? RSVP > > Thanks for all the advice, > Dee LeBlanc > leblancds@cox.net > cell 225-802-1038 > ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ > The Past is History > The Future is a Mystery > Today is a Gift > That=99s Why They Call it the Present > > > On Nov 5, 2015, at 10:44 AM, Richard Girard wrote: > > Dee, One thing to remember about antennae. Electrical ground and radio > ground plane are not the same thing. I mounted my homemade antenna on the > top of the nose cone with a six inch diameter piece of .025 aluminum insi de > the cone as the ground plane. ICT tower could hear me loud and clear as > soon as I had line of sight from 28 miles and I could hear planes in the > pattern at McPherson over 60 miles. > When I flew the "plane from hell" home I had the same radio but with the > rubber duck attached. Salina tower could not hear me at 6 miles. > The best place to get antenna advice is a local ham radio operator or > club. Someone is almost sure to have an antenna analyzer that will help y ou > tune your antenna for optimum performance. > Another good source is the Aeroelectric Connection right here on the > Matronics Forums. > > Rick Girard > > On Wed, Nov 4, 2015 at 8:15 PM, Herb wrote: > >> >> and do not forget to ground the engine to the airframe..I use braided >> cable..Herb >> >> >> On 11/04/2015 07:56 PM, John Hauck wrote: >> >>> >>> I have had an ICOM A6 in my MKIII for some time now. It is a really >>> good little radio. I use a 24" stainless steel ELT antenna mounted und er >>> the nose cone attached through a sheet aluminum ground plane. I also u se a >>> 20,000 to 25,000 uf installed to the positive and negative output wires on >>> the voltage reg/rec. >>> >>> I frequently carry on conversations with Larry Cottrell's ICOM base >>> station VHF at 75 to 80 sm. >>> >>> I have used handheld radios, STS, Bendix/King KX-99, ICOM A-24 and A-6, >>> in all three of my Kolbs. That is all I need to make the flights over the >>> years from here to the Arctic Ocean. >>> >>> Another item I use to reduce noise picked up in the cockpit is a leathe r >>> mike muff with a small hole on each side. I can't remember where I got >>> mine, but here is one very similar and a little less expensive: >>> >>> http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/sep/10492 >>> >>> A good ground is absolutely essential for good performance. >>> >>> john h >>> mkIII >>> hauck's holler, Alabama >>> >>> -----Original Message----- >>> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto: >>> owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Dee One >>> Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 1:51 PM >>> To: kolb-list@matronics.com >>> Subject: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue >>> >>> >>> Well, after six months of totally rebuilding my Mark 3, I completed the >>> annual inspection, Test flight, I now have a couple hours on the new en gine >>> and rebuild airframe. >>> >>> My airport(L 38) is fairly busy=C3=A2=82=AC=C2 so I purchased two headsets, >>> Intercom, and a ICOM A6 handheld. The problem is that my transmissions are >>> weak and barely readable. I have no experience with handheld radios. Ho w >>> can I remedy this problem? Your experience and recommendations are >>> appreciated. >>> >>> I am thinking that I will need a remote antenna of some sort. I also >>> understand that it is best to install a remote antenna as for away from the >>> engine (Rotax582)as possible. >>> >>> Thanks for your recommendations, >>> Dee >>> >>> -------- >>> The Past is History >>> The Future is a Mystery >>> Today is a Gift >>> That=C3=A2=82=AC=84=A2s Why They Call it the Present >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> Read this topic online here: >>> >>> http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448719#448719 >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >> -- >> Signature text; Add catchy phrase here.. >> >> >> ========== >> br> fts!) >> r> > href="http://www.buildersbooks.com" rel="noreferrer" >> target="_blank">www.buildersbooks.com >> rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contributi on >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin. >> ========== >> -List" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"> >> http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List >> ========== >> FORUMS - >> eferrer" target="_blank">http://forums.matronics.com >> ========== >> b Site - >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin. >> rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contributi on >> ========== >> >> >> >> > > > -- > =9CBlessed are the cracked, for they shall let in the light. =9D Groucho Marx > > > ________________________________ Message 9 _____________________________________ Time: 07:48:30 PM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: B Young effects the radiation pattern on both tx and receive. for best results the ground plane should be 1 to 2 times the length of the whip in diameter. it could be made of very thin metal,,, or could be 3 or more wires, like the spokes of a wheel. each between 1/2 to the length of the whip. Boyd On Nov 5, 2015 7:29 PM, "Dee LeBlanc" wrote: > I am currently installing an external antenna at the end of the wing > (underneath). I did try the radio with the rubber duck antenna that came > with the Icom A6 while on the ground and that provided a strong clear > signal. I'm not running on ship=99s power yet; using ICOM A6 batter y and a 9 > V battery in my intercom. Question: what is the function of a ground plan e > at the base of an antenna? I do have room to add a ground plane if that > will be beneficial. Also, is the orientation of an external antenna > important? RSVP > > Thanks for all the advice, > Dee LeBlanc > leblancds@cox.net > cell 225-802-1038 > ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ > The Past is History > The Future is a Mystery > Today is a Gift > That=99s Why They Call it the Present > > > On Nov 5, 2015, at 10:44 AM, Richard Girard wrote: > > Dee, One thing to remember about antennae. Electrical ground and radio > ground plane are not the same thing. I mounted my homemade antenna on the > top of the nose cone with a six inch diameter piece of .025 aluminum insi de > the cone as the ground plane. ICT tower could hear me loud and clear as > soon as I had line of sight from 28 miles and I could hear planes in the > pattern at McPherson over 60 miles. > When I flew the "plane from hell" home I had the same radio but with the > rubber duck attached. Salina tower could not hear me at 6 miles. > The best place to get antenna advice is a local ham radio operator or > club. Someone is almost sure to have an antenna analyzer that will help y ou > tune your antenna for optimum performance. > Another good source is the Aeroelectric Connection right here on the > Matronics Forums. > > Rick Girard > > On Wed, Nov 4, 2015 at 8:15 PM, Herb wrote: > >> >> and do not forget to ground the engine to the airframe..I use braided >> cable..Herb >> >> >> On 11/04/2015 07:56 PM, John Hauck wrote: >> >>> >>> I have had an ICOM A6 in my MKIII for some time now. It is a really >>> good little radio. I use a 24" stainless steel ELT antenna mounted und er >>> the nose cone attached through a sheet aluminum ground plane. I also u se a >>> 20,000 to 25,000 uf installed to the positive and negative output wires on >>> the voltage reg/rec. >>> >>> I frequently carry on conversations with Larry Cottrell's ICOM base >>> station VHF at 75 to 80 sm. >>> >>> I have used handheld radios, STS, Bendix/King KX-99, ICOM A-24 and A-6, >>> in all three of my Kolbs. That is all I need to make the flights over the >>> years from here to the Arctic Ocean. >>> >>> Another item I use to reduce noise picked up in the cockpit is a leathe r >>> mike muff with a small hole on each side. I can't remember where I got >>> mine, but here is one very similar and a little less expensive: >>> >>> http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/sep/10492 >>> >>> A good ground is absolutely essential for good performance. >>> >>> john h >>> mkIII >>> hauck's holler, Alabama >>> >>> -----Original Message----- >>> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto: >>> owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Dee One >>> Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 1:51 PM >>> To: kolb-list@matronics.com >>> Subject: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue >>> >>> >>> Well, after six months of totally rebuilding my Mark 3, I completed the >>> annual inspection, Test flight, I now have a couple hours on the new en gine >>> and rebuild airframe. >>> >>> My airport(L 38) is fairly busy=C3=A2=82=AC=C2 so I purchased two headsets, >>> Intercom, and a ICOM A6 handheld. The problem is that my transmissions are >>> weak and barely readable. I have no experience with handheld radios. Ho w >>> can I remedy this problem? Your experience and recommendations are >>> appreciated. >>> >>> I am thinking that I will need a remote antenna of some sort. I also >>> understand that it is best to install a remote antenna as for away from the >>> engine (Rotax582)as possible. >>> >>> Thanks for your recommendations, >>> Dee >>> >>> -------- >>> The Past is History >>> The Future is a Mystery >>> Today is a Gift >>> That=C3=A2=82=AC=84=A2s Why They Call it the Present >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> Read this topic online here: >>> >>> http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448719#448719 >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >> -- >> Signature text; Add catchy phrase here.. >> >> >> ========== >> br> fts!) >> r> > href="http://www.buildersbooks.com" rel="noreferrer" >> target="_blank">www.buildersbooks.com >> rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contributi on >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin. >> ========== >> -List" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"> >> http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List >> ========== >> FORUMS - >> eferrer" target="_blank">http://forums.matronics.com >> ========== >> b Site - >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin. >> rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contributi on >> ========== >> >> >> >> > > > -- > =9CBlessed are the cracked, for they shall let in the light. =9D Groucho Marx > > > ________________________________ Message 10 ____________________________________ Time: 07:51:38 PM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: B Young aircraft radio signals are vertically polarized. Boyd On Nov 5, 2015 7:29 PM, "Dee LeBlanc" wrote: > I am currently installing an external antenna at the end of the wing > (underneath). I did try the radio with the rubber duck antenna that came > with the Icom A6 while on the ground and that provided a strong clear > signal. I'm not running on ship=99s power yet; using ICOM A6 batter y and a 9 > V battery in my intercom. Question: what is the function of a ground plan e > at the base of an antenna? I do have room to add a ground plane if that > will be beneficial. Also, is the orientation of an external antenna > important? RSVP > > Thanks for all the advice, > Dee LeBlanc > leblancds@cox.net > cell 225-802-1038 > ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ > The Past is History > The Future is a Mystery > Today is a Gift > That=99s Why They Call it the Present > > > On Nov 5, 2015, at 10:44 AM, Richard Girard wrote: > > Dee, One thing to remember about antennae. Electrical ground and radio > ground plane are not the same thing. I mounted my homemade antenna on the > top of the nose cone with a six inch diameter piece of .025 aluminum insi de > the cone as the ground plane. ICT tower could hear me loud and clear as > soon as I had line of sight from 28 miles and I could hear planes in the > pattern at McPherson over 60 miles. > When I flew the "plane from hell" home I had the same radio but with the > rubber duck attached. Salina tower could not hear me at 6 miles. > The best place to get antenna advice is a local ham radio operator or > club. Someone is almost sure to have an antenna analyzer that will help y ou > tune your antenna for optimum performance. > Another good source is the Aeroelectric Connection right here on the > Matronics Forums. > > Rick Girard > > On Wed, Nov 4, 2015 at 8:15 PM, Herb wrote: > >> >> and do not forget to ground the engine to the airframe..I use braided >> cable..Herb >> >> >> On 11/04/2015 07:56 PM, John Hauck wrote: >> >>> >>> I have had an ICOM A6 in my MKIII for some time now. It is a really >>> good little radio. I use a 24" stainless steel ELT antenna mounted und er >>> the nose cone attached through a sheet aluminum ground plane. I also u se a >>> 20,000 to 25,000 uf installed to the positive and negative output wires on >>> the voltage reg/rec. >>> >>> I frequently carry on conversations with Larry Cottrell's ICOM base >>> station VHF at 75 to 80 sm. >>> >>> I have used handheld radios, STS, Bendix/King KX-99, ICOM A-24 and A-6, >>> in all three of my Kolbs. That is all I need to make the flights over the >>> years from here to the Arctic Ocean. >>> >>> Another item I use to reduce noise picked up in the cockpit is a leathe r >>> mike muff with a small hole on each side. I can't remember where I got >>> mine, but here is one very similar and a little less expensive: >>> >>> http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/sep/10492 >>> >>> A good ground is absolutely essential for good performance. >>> >>> john h >>> mkIII >>> hauck's holler, Alabama >>> >>> -----Original Message----- >>> From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto: >>> owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Dee One >>> Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 1:51 PM >>> To: kolb-list@matronics.com >>> Subject: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue >>> >>> >>> Well, after six months of totally rebuilding my Mark 3, I completed the >>> annual inspection, Test flight, I now have a couple hours on the new en gine >>> and rebuild airframe. >>> >>> My airport(L 38) is fairly busy=C3=A2=82=AC=C2 so I purchased two headsets, >>> Intercom, and a ICOM A6 handheld. The problem is that my transmissions are >>> weak and barely readable. I have no experience with handheld radios. Ho w >>> can I remedy this problem? Your experience and recommendations are >>> appreciated. >>> >>> I am thinking that I will need a remote antenna of some sort. I also >>> understand that it is best to install a remote antenna as for away from the >>> engine (Rotax582)as possible. >>> >>> Thanks for your recommendations, >>> Dee >>> >>> -------- >>> The Past is History >>> The Future is a Mystery >>> Today is a Gift >>> That=C3=A2=82=AC=84=A2s Why They Call it the Present >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> Read this topic online here: >>> >>> http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448719#448719 >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >> -- >> Signature text; Add catchy phrase here.. >> >> >> ========== >> br> fts!) >> r> > href="http://www.buildersbooks.com" rel="noreferrer" >> target="_blank">www.buildersbooks.com >> rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contributi on >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin. >> ========== >> -List" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank"> >> http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List >> ========== >> FORUMS - >> eferrer" target="_blank">http://forums.matronics.com >> ========== >> b Site - >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin. >> rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contributi on >> ========== >> >> >> >> > > > -- > =9CBlessed are the cracked, for they shall let in the light. =9D Groucho Marx > > > ________________________________ Message 11 ____________________________________ Time: 07:59:25 PM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue From: Herb The design on the link that I sent negates the ground plane ...Very simple and half wave in design.. Most designs are quarter wave... Herb On 11/05/2015 09:48 PM, B Young wrote: > > effects the radiation pattern on both tx and receive. for best > results the ground plane should be 1 to 2 times the length of the whip > in diameter. it could be made of very thin metal,,, or could be > 3 or more wires, like the spokes of a wheel. each between 1/2 to the > length of the whip. > Boyd > > On Nov 5, 2015 7:29 PM, "Dee LeBlanc" > wrote: > > I am currently installing an external antenna at the end of the > wing (underneath). I did try the radio with the rubber duck > antenna that came with the Icom A6 while on the ground and that > provided a strong clear signal. I'm not running on ships power > yet; using ICOM A6 battery and a 9 V battery in my intercom. > Question: what is the function of a ground plane at the base of an > antenna? I do have room to add a ground plane if that will be > beneficial. Also, is the orientation of an external antenna > important? RSVP > > Thanks for all the advice, > Dee LeBlanc > leblancds@cox.net > cell 225-802-1038 > ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ > The Past is History > The Future is a Mystery > Today is a Gift > Thats Why They Call it the Present > > >> On Nov 5, 2015, at 10:44 AM, Richard Girard > > wrote: >> >> Dee, One thing to remember about antennae. Electrical ground and >> radio ground plane are not the same thing. I mounted my homemade >> antenna on the top of the nose cone with a six inch diameter >> piece of .025 aluminum inside the cone as the ground plane. ICT >> tower could hear me loud and clear as soon as I had line of sight >> from 28 miles and I could hear planes in the pattern at McPherson >> over 60 miles. >> When I flew the "plane from hell" home I had the same radio but >> with the rubber duck attached. Salina tower could not hear me at >> 6 miles. >> The best place to get antenna advice is a local ham radio >> operator or club. Someone is almost sure to have an antenna >> analyzer that will help you tune your antenna for optimum >> performance. >> Another good source is the Aeroelectric Connection right here on >> the Matronics Forums. >> >> Rick Girard >> >> On Wed, Nov 4, 2015 at 8:15 PM, Herb> >wrote: >> >> > >> >> and do not forget to ground the engine to the airframe..I use >> braided cable..Herb >> >> >> On 11/04/2015 07:56 PM, John Hauck wrote: >> >> > >> >> I have had an ICOM A6 in my MKIII for some time now. It >> is a really good little radio. I use a 24" stainless >> steel ELT antenna mounted under the nose cone attached >> through a sheet aluminum ground plane. I also use a >> 20,000 to 25,000 uf installed to the positive and >> negative output wires on the voltage reg/rec. >> >> I frequently carry on conversations with Larry Cottrell's >> ICOM base station VHF at 75 to 80 sm. >> >> I have used handheld radios, STS, Bendix/King KX-99, ICOM >> A-24 and A-6, in all three of my Kolbs. That is all I >> need to make the flights over the years from here to the >> Arctic Ocean. >> >> Another item I use to reduce noise picked up in the >> cockpit is a leather mike muff with a small hole on each >> side. I can't remember where I got mine, but here is one >> very similar and a little less expensive: >> >> http://www.mypilotstore.com/mypilotstore/sep/10492 >> >> A good ground is absolutely essential for good performance. >> >> john h >> mkIII >> hauck's holler, Alabama >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com >> [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com >> ] On Behalf >> Of Dee One >> Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2015 1:51 PM >> To:kolb-list@matronics.com >> Subject: Kolb-List: Handheld Radio Performance Issue >> >> > >> >> Well, after six months of totally rebuilding my Mark 3, I >> completed the annual inspection, Test flight, I now have >> a couple hours on the new engine and rebuild airframe. >> >> My airport(L 38) is fairly busy so I purchased two >> headsets, Intercom, and a ICOM A6 handheld. The problem >> is that my transmissions are weak and barely readable. I >> have no experience with handheld radios. How can I remedy >> this problem? Your experience and recommendations are >> appreciated. >> >> I am thinking that I will need a remote antenna of some >> sort. I also understand that it is best to install a >> remote antenna as for away from the engine (Rotax582)as >> possible. >> >> Thanks for your recommendations, >> Dee >> >> -------- >> The Past is History >> The Future is a Mystery >> Today is a Gift >> Thats Why They Call it the Present >> >> >> >> >> Read this topic online here: >> >> http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=448719#448719 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> -- >> Signature text; Add catchy phrase here.. >> >> >> ========== >> br> fts!) >> r> > href="http://www.buildersbooks.com >> " rel="noreferrer" >> target="_blank">www.buildersbooks.com >> >> rel="noreferrer" >> target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin. >> ========== >> -List" rel="noreferrer" >> target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List >> ========== >> FORUMS - >> eferrer" target="_blank">http://forums.matronics.com >> >> ========== >> b Site - >> -Matt Dralle, List Admin. >> rel="noreferrer" >> target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution >> ========== >> >> >> >> >> >> >> -- >> >> >> Blessed are the cracked, for they shall let in the light. >> Groucho Marx >> >> > -- Signature text; Add catchy phrase here.. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Matronics Email List Services ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Post A New Message kolb-list@matronics.com UN/SUBSCRIBE http://www.matronics.com/subscription List FAQ http://www.matronics.com/FAQ/Kolb-List.htm Web Forum Interface To Lists http://forums.matronics.com Matronics List Wiki http://wiki.matronics.com Full Archive Search Engine http://www.matronics.com/search 7-Day List Browse http://www.matronics.com/browse/kolb-list Browse Digests http://www.matronics.com/digest/kolb-list Browse Other Lists http://www.matronics.com/browse Live Online Chat! http://www.matronics.com/chat Archive Downloading http://www.matronics.com/archives Photo Share http://www.matronics.com/photoshare Other Email Lists http://www.matronics.com/emaillists Contributions http://www.matronics.com/contribution ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- These Email List Services are sponsored solely by Matronics and through the generous Contributions of its members.