Which aerial for a NASA Target H3 SSB

[eebygum]

Hi, I've picked up a cheap NASA target HF3 SSB radio which I want to use for weather forecasts etc connected to a PC etc. which I hope to use in a future transatlantic.

Whats the best/more practical aerial to use ? can I just use a long wire in the cockpit ! or do I need the Nasa Active SSB antenna and if so do I need an insulated backstay to connect this or what's the best way ? ......The mast is currently down and all the standing rigging is being replaced so now is the best time to set this up if I need to. Want a cheap practical solution (KISS principle) no hi-tech.

Thanks in advance

 

[boatbuilder]

I just connected the wire aerial supplied to a chain plate , worked fine.
The NASA active aerial gets good reports as well, so try the free idea first ,and if its no good get an active aerial. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[Bergman]

A length of wire running as far up the mast as you can and a cheap receive only aerial tuning unit.

 

[steve_cronin]

The active aerial is fine for stations at relatively short range. If you're going to attempt reception in the Atlantic i would recommend a long wire aerial or an insulated backstay. most of the serious on line chandlers sell appropriate insulators that will still take the backstay tension

if you're going westwards in november, you will be relying on your backstay very mich so to weaken it would be folly.

Height is more important and getting the aerial away from antennuating metal items like other stays, gantrys and wind generators, so the backstay wins every time for best signal/noise.

I use just the active with mine in Corfu but all I'm wanting to receive at the moment is World Service, Offenbach and when I'm lucky, Northwood.

Steve Cronin

 

[TigaWave]

Coax from the set to the transom (to help insulate from other electrical noise as the instrument wires ran the same route), then just the single wire wrapped up the backstay.

Electrical noise and interferance is the biggest problem, mid atlantic it worked better than sat in a Plymouth marina.

I could get yacht voice from300-400miles and herb/Trudy 800-900 easily as well as all the weather and passing aircraft reporting arrival in the states.

No tuner no active antenae, but you may have to try swithcing all other electrics/electronics off if it doesn't work, and sail out to sea for 20 miles.

 

[mortehoe]

I\'ll take part in JC2010

Birgitta, CO26, Rowen Bay, Y Felinheli, Menai Strait

Let's make a race out of it /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

.... And are you going in for the Round Anglesey Race this year. Didn't see you in 2006 /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

Cheers,

Chachani, frequenter of the Siliwen Shed, Colins 'Boatyard', 'The Gazelle' and the 'Douglas' in Bethesda /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif