Something went wrong with the feedline and I decided to replace the j-pole when I observed it had a high SWR at 144.39. I could have re-tuned it but I wanted a stealthier antenna that would hang in a tree in the front yard.
I found this gem called the Slim Jim at https://www.kc4rcr.com/2m-slim-jim/. It’s a variation on the j-pole. I didn’t bother to measure its bandwidth as it will only spend its time on one frequency but following the directions, I had to mount my coax on the lowest point in the matching section so I could have probably made this antenna an inch longer.
It’s up in the air and hearing signals from all over the metro area, repeating when asked.
Next projects on the agenda: digital modes over VHF FM, Winlink, and the one I find most intersting, the “mesh” radio that will operate on 2.4 and 5 GHz. I look forward to bootstrapping that device tomorrow.
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