This makes me want to get my little tarheel 2 back on the air. I took it out of my old truck years ago and haven't used it since. Awesome results, and probably the most exciting thing seen in that park ever. I've been to probably half of the Texas state parks and that is the one at the bottom of my list.
I finally finished my first Activation with the help of a friend today doing POTA in Minnesota. Such a fun experience. That Tarheel antenna looks pretty awesome. Might want to consider that in addition to my EFHW POTA-ble. You've been an inspiration, Jason. Hope to get you in the log book some time! Thank you for all that you do, and 73. - KF0QNM
I actually repurposed a L’il Tarheel II for a very similar setup using a mast section and extendible antenna from my Buddipole kit and mounted it on a GRA-ULT01 MK3 tripod antenna mast from Amazon. Works amazing !
I have one very similar to this that I bought from a HAM about 20 years ago, it is AMAZING how well it works. I wish I still had the guys call sign, he hand made them. 73
"That's why your mobile radio is always needing retuned every time you move." Yes! A lot of my viewers don't understand how wet roads, rebar in the concrete, and guard rails all can impact the SWR in my mobile setup, especially since one of my HF antennas is so close to the road. That's not to mention passing cars, too. Great antenna! 73! -Scott
That looks like a great antenna. Today 20 meters red hot. Getting FT8 on 10/12/15/17/20 today at 50 watts all over. Even DX south America. I am using same POTA flex 7 50 foot reel kit. Super good coax ! And KC5HWB discount on M & P works. Using IC 7300 from my yard on home made 39FT slooper into 4:1 UNUN . That makes it a end fed 5/8 wave at 20 meters. The RX is crazy strong. I ran 1KW FT8 into that Pota Flex 7 and works great. no heating except my UNUN got hot after a while. I need longer pole for 39 FT vertical . DC commander has one and saving up for that. I just ordered a 4:1 UNUN 1.5 KW 1 to 54 MHZ. should have end of september. My Pota Reel holding down my UNUN . I have counterpoise 17FT . and 1:1 choke at Pota reel . Windy in NY as well ! cool labor day for us. 70F 73
The real test would be to bring that antenna to Anchorage, Alaska and activate a park. Foe me the best result has been with a Boddipole Deluxe Long Version. After 39 Parks activated here in Alaska that Boddipole Deluxe have proven to be the way to go here. Thanks for the video, Jason keep up the good work.
Here my question.... Considering my POTA activations are typically during the day, thus on the high bands, what is there to gain over a 17ft telescopic whip, which can typically handle more power (if that is a concern) w/ 0 loss from a coil? ... and takes out 10M as even being an option. Not saying it's a bad antenna, or doesn't perform well, but how is it any better than a WRC, with a 17ft whip, under the typical situations it would be used with (daytime ops @ ≤100W)? Especially, if you still have to adjust it manually....
Nothing. With a 17' whip, the coil likely isn't needed until operating at 10 MHz and below. With few exceptions, a commercial loading coil is a loading coil. They all do the same thing. Choke the feedline close to the so239 at the base of the antenna, and maybe the analyzer will return a better match than 1.5:1 vswr.
Question. Do you have to worry about RF exposure with mobile antennas? My concern is having a screwdriver antenna mounted behind the cab of my truck. Would the back seat passengers be at risk?
I bet all those metal structures at the park are messing with your SWR also. I have a lot of metal at my home and always need to re-tune my mobile after I leave home.
maybe you should do a comparison between the tar heel and the wolf river coil. I have used the wolf river for a couple of years now and it's great. I suppose the greatest difference between the two would be the amount of power you run. But truth told, I don't know too many that take amplifiers with them for POTA. Field Day yes. But not POTA. Thanks for the video. Great job and content as always, 73
@@Preachb52 I was thinking the same thing. I don't see a lot hauling a 500W amp, plus something to power it, for a park activation. Many aren't willing to haul a rig like a 7300 or 710, to begin with. I also agree that Field Day would be a different story. However, I would also think other antenna choices would be applied, as well...like a DX Commander, or the like, which typically can handle QRO more efficiently. If they were to take the time and effort to run that kind of power in the field, why would them skimp using a 10-11ft tall, base loaded antenna?
I dig the wolf river coil. I wonder how it’d perform with that whip that is included in the video…I’ve been considering changing my collapsible one and adding more radials.
@@ChrisBeiting compared to a 17ft telescopic, probably not as well. The Mil whip they offer, and most likely in the vid, is 9ft ... So, too long for 10M, and too short for 15/17/20M. With it being too short for 15-20M, more coil is needed to be used...the more coil that is used, the more losses are induced, and the less efficient the antenna is.
@@amnchode Gotcha. I have the 102" that comes with the WRC TIA -- and have been considering getting the 17' one because I figured it'd be a better performer -- then I'd probably do the coil bypass mod for 20m. At least that makes sense in my head.
@@ChrisBeiting The 17ft whip makes it far more efficient...especially, on the high bands, as the coil is no longer needed. The two big things, in my experience: limit your losses & provide a good ground plane. By using less coil, you limit your losses. The ground plane is a whole other issue, especially if you are running the stock radials with your WRC. I'm of the school of "short, but many". Considering ground radials couple to the ground, the overall length isn't near as important, but the number of radials is. However, I also try to follow the rule of thumb of getting at least a single λ of wire on the ground for the lowest band used... preferably 2λ. So, I run 18 (3 sets of 6) 2.5M long radials, which is 45M worth of wire on the ground (vs WRC's ~30M). This gets me a good solid ground plane, with more wire on the ground, and a smaller footprint within a 16ft diameter (vs WRC's stock 64-66' diameter footprint). Plus, it's easier to deploy 😉
@@HamRadio2 you could do a follow up video. So Q=6.28(f)(L)/R. The Q value will differ according to the frequency. A higher Q factor means the coil is more efficient and has less energy loss at a given frequency. We obviously want energy out at the antenna. I do like watching your videos on TH-cam very informative. De KR2EMS
No portable antenna is worth this price!!! If you are filthy rich, ok! Other antennas costing much much less will do the same!! Thanks for the video!! I understand why you don’t communicate the price!!
I don't communicate the price because prices change over time. In many videos I mention a price and folks come watch the video 2-3 years later, then make comments about how the price is wrong. If you think the price is too high, then don't buy one. No one is forcing you. But since he is selling these very well at its current price, it renders your argument invalid
i think your 15m contacts were outa band .. 21.225 is bottom of advanced band if im wrong send me a link to the updated band plan ... unless you upgraded to extra system still shows you general
I was one of your contacts yesterday, KF0TIM. Great signal.
Awesome
This makes me want to get my little tarheel 2 back on the air. I took it out of my old truck years ago and haven't used it since. Awesome results, and probably the most exciting thing seen in that park ever. I've been to probably half of the Texas state parks and that is the one at the bottom of my list.
Great video and great work with the contacts. Fantastic looking antenna. Looks well built. Way out of budget. Am sure people will enjoy it. 73
Thanks 👍
Nice antenna Jason seen a guy this side of the pond with one of the large Tarheel on his van the thing is huge all the best 73 M7CVK Tony
Just ran across this video, very cool antenna!!
This is awesome! One heck of a setup.
It really is!
I finally finished my first Activation with the help of a friend today doing POTA in Minnesota. Such a fun experience. That Tarheel antenna looks pretty awesome. Might want to consider that in addition to my EFHW POTA-ble. You've been an inspiration, Jason. Hope to get you in the log book some time! Thank you for all that you do, and 73. - KF0QNM
Thanks
I actually repurposed a L’il Tarheel II for a very similar setup using a mast section and extendible antenna from my Buddipole kit and mounted it on a GRA-ULT01 MK3 tripod antenna mast from Amazon. Works amazing !
Jason thank you for the great video. That antenna works better than my Zero5
I have one very similar to this that I bought from a HAM about 20 years ago, it is AMAZING how well it works. I wish I still had the guys call sign, he hand made them. 73
"That's why your mobile radio is always needing retuned every time you move." Yes! A lot of my viewers don't understand how wet roads, rebar in the concrete, and guard rails all can impact the SWR in my mobile setup, especially since one of my HF antennas is so close to the road. That's not to mention passing cars, too. Great antenna! 73! -Scott
Thanks
That looks like a great antenna. Today 20 meters red hot. Getting FT8 on 10/12/15/17/20 today at 50 watts all over. Even DX south America. I am using same POTA flex 7 50 foot reel kit. Super good coax ! And KC5HWB discount on M & P works. Using IC 7300 from my yard on home made 39FT slooper into 4:1 UNUN . That makes it a end fed 5/8 wave at 20 meters. The RX is crazy strong. I ran 1KW FT8 into that Pota Flex 7 and works great. no heating except my UNUN got hot after a while. I need longer pole for 39 FT vertical . DC commander has one and saving up for that. I just ordered a 4:1 UNUN 1.5 KW 1 to 54 MHZ. should have end of september. My Pota Reel holding down my UNUN . I have counterpoise 17FT . and 1:1 choke at Pota reel . Windy in NY as well ! cool labor day for us. 70F 73
I was the one that got the telescoping antenna that he had that went with the portable little pro hp that he had set up at Huntsville.
Cool
God bless you brother.
Nice looking antenna, great contacts, tnx Man!
I bave a little tarheel 2 on the car with a mini tune thing which has the memories in it. Get 1:1 all the time
It looks like you’re using the World Radio League logger. Would love to hear your review. It still needs some work, but shows great promise
Working on that
The real test would be to bring that antenna to Anchorage, Alaska and activate a park. Foe me the best result has been with a Boddipole Deluxe Long Version. After 39 Parks activated here in Alaska that Boddipole Deluxe have proven to be the way to go here. Thanks for the video, Jason keep up the good work.
I've been wanting to go back to Alaska anyway
nice little antenna, going to have to try it down here in Caribbean for POTA.. 73 Ira
Fine presentation
Thank you
Rockland Rover look out. This baby is a Game Changer!
For the 1.5 swr, try adding more radials.
A bit taller than an MP-1 Miracle Antenna, just as handy (with a bit more gain). Nice!
I am needing me a great portable antenna,. now I have my answer.
Pretty close is really good
awesome I'm looking to get this in the dipole config for my roof to go with my vertical
I have the moterized mobile version of this bad boy and LOVE IT! Even great on 40M mobile! Got rid of my antenna tuner! 1:27
Here my question.... Considering my POTA activations are typically during the day, thus on the high bands, what is there to gain over a 17ft telescopic whip, which can typically handle more power (if that is a concern) w/ 0 loss from a coil? ... and takes out 10M as even being an option. Not saying it's a bad antenna, or doesn't perform well, but how is it any better than a WRC, with a 17ft whip, under the typical situations it would be used with (daytime ops @ ≤100W)? Especially, if you still have to adjust it manually....
Nothing. With a 17' whip, the coil likely isn't needed until operating at 10 MHz and below. With few exceptions, a commercial loading coil is a loading coil. They all do the same thing.
Choke the feedline close to the so239 at the base of the antenna, and maybe the analyzer will return a better match than 1.5:1 vswr.
Jason - my Little Pro HP just arrived today, bought it based on your video. Can't wait to get it on the air. What logbook are you using?
Today I used WRL Logger. I am working on a video about it.
Damn, you got so many great contacts.
hI Jason very nice the exchange rate an freight just kills it to us in New Zealand,Thanks Pieter what is the whip looks good
I feel likje there is a lot to learn about antenna's.
Thanks for the review. Only problem is we cannot get Tarheel Antennas here in the UK. 73 Dave G0BXS
What is in the Milwaukee Pack out box?
A 50ah battery and solar charge controller
Question. Do you have to worry about RF exposure with mobile antennas? My concern is having a screwdriver antenna mounted behind the cab of my truck. Would the back seat passengers be at risk?
There's always some risk of RF exposure but I'm not too worried about HF radios. If this was a SHF radio, it'd be a different story
I like that stand .. any link?
The tripod that the antenna is on? That comes from Tarheel Designs also
@@HamRadio2 ok thanks ill check on it.
Hi, what rig were you using?
What app are you using to map the contacts?
I bet all those metal structures at the park are messing with your SWR also. I have a lot of metal at my home and always need to re-tune my mobile after I leave home.
Yes and the powerlines overhead. But you operate where you can.
maybe you should do a comparison between the tar heel and the wolf river coil. I have used the wolf river for a couple of years now and it's great. I suppose the greatest difference between the two would be the amount of power you run. But truth told, I don't know too many that take amplifiers with them for POTA. Field Day yes. But not POTA. Thanks for the video. Great job and content as always, 73
@@Preachb52 I was thinking the same thing. I don't see a lot hauling a 500W amp, plus something to power it, for a park activation. Many aren't willing to haul a rig like a 7300 or 710, to begin with. I also agree that Field Day would be a different story. However, I would also think other antenna choices would be applied, as well...like a DX Commander, or the like, which typically can handle QRO more efficiently. If they were to take the time and effort to run that kind of power in the field, why would them skimp using a 10-11ft tall, base loaded antenna?
I dig the wolf river coil. I wonder how it’d perform with that whip that is included in the video…I’ve been considering changing my collapsible one and adding more radials.
@@ChrisBeiting compared to a 17ft telescopic, probably not as well. The Mil whip they offer, and most likely in the vid, is 9ft ... So, too long for 10M, and too short for 15/17/20M. With it being too short for 15-20M, more coil is needed to be used...the more coil that is used, the more losses are induced, and the less efficient the antenna is.
@@amnchode Gotcha. I have the 102" that comes with the WRC TIA -- and have been considering getting the 17' one because I figured it'd be a better performer -- then I'd probably do the coil bypass mod for 20m. At least that makes sense in my head.
@@ChrisBeiting The 17ft whip makes it far more efficient...especially, on the high bands, as the coil is no longer needed. The two big things, in my experience: limit your losses & provide a good ground plane. By using less coil, you limit your losses.
The ground plane is a whole other issue, especially if you are running the stock radials with your WRC. I'm of the school of "short, but many". Considering ground radials couple to the ground, the overall length isn't near as important, but the number of radials is. However, I also try to follow the rule of thumb of getting at least a single λ of wire on the ground for the lowest band used... preferably 2λ. So, I run 18 (3 sets of 6) 2.5M long radials, which is 45M worth of wire on the ground (vs WRC's ~30M). This gets me a good solid ground plane, with more wire on the ground, and a smaller footprint within a 16ft diameter (vs WRC's stock 64-66' diameter footprint). Plus, it's easier to deploy 😉
Can this be used on a mag mount obviously static mobile ?
I don't see why not
Ohh that is pricey, but looks very functional!
How do you tune the antenna
Move the coil up and down
what is your radio set up there at POTA and what are you typing on the tablet?
Yaesu FTDX10. I'm making a video about the app
What’s the “Q” of the coil? The higher the Q the better the coil. However the price points are just over the top. It’s a hard pass for me.
I'm not sure the Q rating of this coil
@@HamRadio2 you could do a follow up video. So Q=6.28(f)(L)/R. The Q value will differ according to the frequency. A higher Q factor means the coil is more efficient and has less energy loss at a given frequency. We obviously want energy out at the antenna. I do like watching your videos on TH-cam very informative. De KR2EMS
People’s republic of Connecticut. 😂😂😂!!
No portable antenna is worth this price!!! If you are filthy rich, ok! Other antennas costing much much less will do the same!! Thanks for the video!! I understand why you don’t communicate the price!!
I don't communicate the price because prices change over time. In many videos I mention a price and folks come watch the video 2-3 years later, then make comments about how the price is wrong.
If you think the price is too high, then don't buy one. No one is forcing you. But since he is selling these very well at its current price, it renders your argument invalid
Too expensive for my blood!
For sure
Ok
Always is because hams are broke all the time because they're lazy
I traded 3 hamsticks and a balun for a tarheal 2 best deal I ever made.
Why is this “state park” just a big open mowed turf field? Where is the nature?
i think your 15m contacts were outa band .. 21.225 is bottom of advanced band if im wrong send me a link to the updated band plan ... unless you upgraded to extra system still shows you general
That's just where I tuned the antenna. I was operating around 21.300
Saved HRDLOG in my favorites. See a Tarheel in my future for mobile. A lot of good information. Thanks. Jack / KF5SGC. 73.
Any day you can work Izzo is a good day! 73de n0km
that antenna seems to do much better than my Inverted L at house. AG6JU
Vertical Antennas work well at the beach also