I always liked the Miracle Whip / Wonder Wand type of QRP antenna’s but could never stomach the price. So, I just built my own to use with my FT-817.
The antenna is a 6′ telescopic antenna from an old CB and the case is the cover/protector for my car stereo removable faceplate. The inductor and position switch were just a used toroid and a used 12 position switch I had around. It works very well and provides a decent match on most bands without fuss. You can see it in use here on YouTube.
I must say that it is mostly a dummy load. While I have had a few decent QSO’s using this setup it’s less than great. Another reason I’m glad I built it rather than bought it. I can tell you that a ground (counterpoise) is essential to using this type of antenna.
Dear OM, I am Jojith VU2JAW. I love the project and wish to make one. Kindly forward the details of diy miracle whip antenna.
73
de Jojith
I have no exact details. The article fairly well sums up the plans. If you have specific questions… email me and I’ll try and answer.
Rich
AD7C
What are the inductors, what toroid are they wound on what turns, where are the taps for the antenna ?
The toroid was just an old MIX31 toroid I had lying around. No reason to the taps… Every couple of turns around I made a tap until I had 12 of them. Since enamel wire is cheap and easy to get you can try different turn/taps to get what works best for you. I have noticed the 1st couple of taps are worth less (position 1-3) so it is probably best to start the taps after a minimum of 5 turns.
Rich
AD7C
http://www.ad7c.com/wp-admin/edit-comments.php#comments-form
Great site, very helpful.
Salve ! Abito a Roma e spesso porto con me una versione di questa antenna autocostruita … Leggo spesso che richiede un contrappeso calcolato , ma io gli ho attaccato uno generico di 5 metri …. Però sembra funzionare lo stesso ! Dovrei mettere qualcosa di calcolato , visto che opero in 20-40 metri con l’817 / P ? Grazie ,Franz