| Author |
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KGG1157
| | Posted on Tuesday, May 07, 2002 - 11:33 am: | 
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Has anyone tried using the GPK from an antron 99 or I2 on an Army Stick before? I have an ol GPK that has the fiberglass stripping off of it cause of age (still functionable) and wondered if it would be recommended. I have the "new" style white Big Stick NBS-2010 up around 20' and SWRs are good cross the board and I'm happy with the performance. I was just wondering if anyone has tried it before and what the difference was. |
Warlock
| | Posted on Wednesday, May 08, 2002 - 5:17 am: |
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A perpindicular GP with 9' radials will do the most good. I've used one made by Maco, don't know if they're still available though. |
Hoopguitar
| | Posted on Wednesday, May 08, 2002 - 11:24 pm: |
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KGG1157, what does the SWR run on your NBS-2010? I have the ABS-1600 (Army green) that runs about 2.0 which is unacceptable.
Thanks,
Hoopguitar |
Swamper
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 01, 2002 - 12:50 am: |
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kgg is that the army big stick you got?..if it is how you like it i may get one.im using a antron 99 right now. |
Taz
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 01, 2002 - 5:52 am: |
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Hoopguitar, you need to lengthen or shorten your antenna co compensate.
I like the imax 2000. Its overall the best and I know many will agree! |
bruce
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 01, 2002 - 6:11 pm: |
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hoop
Taz is right check the VSWR at ch 1, 20 and 40 if its going up the ant is too long if it is going down its too short if it does nothing see coppers listing of antennas cause its got a problem |
Swamper
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 01, 2002 - 6:20 pm: |
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i would like to know,how do you know the i max is the best?..have you ever tryed the army big stick?..i still dont see any proof that its better. |
Tech833
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 01, 2002 - 11:42 pm: |
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The GPK will have no influence on the Shakespeare ABS like it does on the Imax 2000. Save your time and money. |
tdragon69
| | Posted on Sunday, March 02, 2003 - 2:03 am: |
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I have a big stick with a texas ranger tr 696f-ssb and I have talked to a mobil radio 17 miles away on it.My swr is in the ones to one and a half.I just think if you want a good base station ant you cant go wrong with a shakespeare.Some thing else you should make sure youre ant mast is grounded good or you wont get a good recption |
Tech833
| | Posted on Sunday, March 02, 2003 - 11:25 am: |
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If we were to use 'I talked XX miles with my super stick' as the comparison, then the A99 would have to be the best antenna in the whole entire history of the world. HAM CBer has a 20 milliwatt beacon in California (20 milliwatts is a very, very small fraction of a watt). He literally runs 20 milliwatts into 1/2 inch Heliax to an A99, that's it. His beacon is heard DAILY over 30 miles away locally. It is heard in many countries daily including Japan and Australia.
Keep in mind, the beacon is almost 3000 feet above seal level and 2,500 feet above all surrounding terrain for miles in all directions. THAT is the 'magical' factor, not the antenna. You wouldn't get the same results from an A99 at your house in the valley that HAM CBer does at his.
You see, the point is, you can't duplicate the circumstances in which one antenna 'walks' on another for all stations. You have to choose your antenna based on predicted gain and performance. I'll bet if HAM CBer changed that A99 to an Imax 2000 w/GPK or a Maco V-5/8 antenna, he would be heard much further away than he is now.
Speaking of whom, where are you HAM CBer? |
Twa77
| | Posted on Sunday, March 30, 2003 - 7:15 pm: |
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i have an imaxx 2000 and i can talk 40 miles no problem. all i run is an unmodified uniden pc 122 on lsb. i am very impressed with the performance of the imaxx. i have also talked skip from california to maine, south america, and australia. i live in south dakota |
Twa77
| | Posted on Sunday, March 30, 2003 - 8:34 pm: |
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oh i forgot to mention that my imaxx has the gpk installed. i think that it helped the imaxx. i don't know about the shakespear it should have similar results by adding a gpk. aren't they built similar to the imaxx? correct me if i'm wrong.
tony |
Twa77
| | Posted on Sunday, March 30, 2003 - 8:36 pm: |
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can somebody tell me how the shakespear is built. somebody mentioned that the gpk wont help. what is so different about the shakespear when compared to the imax. |
Tech833
| | Posted on Monday, March 31, 2003 - 11:19 am: |
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The Shakespeare ABS is a 3/8 wave over 1/4 sleeve antenna. The 1/4 wave sleeve (the bottom section of the 3) is the ground plane. Adding horizontal radials will not change the pattern. |
bruce
| | Posted on Monday, March 31, 2003 - 1:23 pm: |
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833 a 3/8 over a 1/4 what would THAT pattern look like?? eplane ??? e-mail it to me if you have a copy ??? interesting!
wa4gch@yahoo.com |
Tech833
| | Posted on Monday, March 31, 2003 - 4:21 pm: |
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It looks a lot like the Imax pattern, except it is not as flat. The 3/8 wave is an antenna that the Shakespeare gang has been pushing to no avail for a long time.
Years ago, there used to be a 3/8 wave aluminum ground plane antenna available. I still see one here and there in my travels. They work well.
The 3/8 wave design never caught on. It does have slightly more gain than a 1/2 wave end fed dipole on the horizon due to takeoff angle. However, if you have a 1/2 wave cetnter fed antenna, then the 3/8 wave will not outperform it.
Putting the 3/8 wave over a 1/4 wave sleeve (like the first big stick had) is genious. A 1/4 wave over a 1/4 wave sleeve has the same radiation pattern as a 1/2 wave center fed dipole. This antenna would be called a '1/2 wave coaxial dipole' Then, if you increase the length of the driven element to a 3/8 wave, the gain increases as well, making a pattern similar to a 5/8 wave ground plane, but not quite. |
Karatebutcher
| | Posted on Monday, March 31, 2003 - 6:47 pm: |
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TECH 883 I bought the Shakespear Big Stick in 1974, it is a 2 piece, I was told it is a 1/2 wave antenna, I still use it to this day and will continue to use it, it is up say 24 feet , and that is it, in a tree, and gets out great. |
bruce
| | Posted on Monday, March 31, 2003 - 9:51 pm: |
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i did find one and it is 1.5 DBD heck gain is gain! |
Tech833
| | Posted on Tuesday, April 01, 2003 - 1:05 am: |
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The original Big Stick is a 1/2 wave. It is a half wave coaxial dipole (as stated above). |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Friday, May 30, 2003 - 8:01 pm: |
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If it works, don't fix it.
MikefromMs |
Kc0gxz
| | Posted on Monday, June 02, 2003 - 5:06 pm: |
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Taz & Twa77
I agree with you. I also prefer the I-Max over the others. These antennas started selling like hotcakes a short time after they were introduced to the market place. I sold 11 of them within the first week I received my first shipment.
5/8 Wave=Lower Radiation Angle. Flatter than any 3/8 wave ever hoped of being. And I think almost everyone knows by now that a 5/8 wave radiation angle, (whether it be a base or mobile antenna) will outperform ANY 1/4 or 1/2 wave antenna of equal length as far as (DX aside) "local distance" communications are concerned.
Talking and comparing antennas with someone 20-30 miles away tells the real story and that's where the I-Max really shines. As Bruce pointed out (and I know he knows what he is talking about) in one of his earlier Posts, the longer the antenna, or the more metal you have in the air, the farther it is going to "talk". THAT IS FACT!! Yes sir Bruce. You said it all in that one line. No if-ands-or buts about it.
The I-Max is 24 feet long, can handle twice the power of the A-99 if needed, and has a excellent bandpass of (for the freebanders) 3MHz. What more could you ask for? No glass antenna in the Shakespear line or any other line can do that. Or any metal antenna for that matter.
I'm not trying to take anything away from Shakespear or any other company. Because I know very well that these companys make good antennas. Otherwise, they wouldn't still be in business. And each has their "Flagship" model. I think what i'm trying to say here is that, this is the first vertical CB antenna that's come down the pike in a very long time that performs as good as the original Penetrator of yesteryear. And I would still rate the Penetrator as the best ONLY if it were still made and had a bandpass as good as the I-Max. The downside of the I-Max? They make me verrry nervous when watching them in a wind storm. 24 feet of wobbling antenna just doesn't sit well with me. Anyone that owns one knows what I am talking about.
As far as the GPKs go? In my opinion, save your money. I've sold many but it's just another way for Bandit, Solarcon or Shakespear to pry your wallet open. The GPKs do NOTHING, and I mean NOTHING, for your transmitted signal like some of the companys claim. The only way you are going to see a improvement in transmitted gain is to run 2 of them in a co-phase arrangement.
BUT, they do however, (and I have noticed this myself) have a bit of gain in receive, along with a little less electrical static, and less TVI when using them. But on the other hand, think about this. Wouldn't they REALLY come with the antenna if they were REALLY needed??
I am in the position where I am able to test and compare different antennas and i'm just sharing with you my experience with them on the Copper Forum. And I also know that many of you are going to disagree with me because "WE ALL" have our favorite brand-name and model of antenna. At this particular moment, as far as verticals go, my favorite is the I-Max 2000. But only until something better comes along.
Like I said before, this is just MY opinion taken from my experience with them. End of story.
Jeff, kc0gxz. |
392
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 03, 2003 - 5:57 pm: |
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I've got 2 abs1600's 40 miles apart. On a clear day I can talk from my ranch to my house on ssb and hear just fine at about s3. This is with about 100 watts on each. The home antenna is at 5o ft and the ranch antenna is at 25 ft. Tha ads1600 has low swr on 10 - 12 meters in my case. It rocks!
392 |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Saturday, June 07, 2003 - 11:07 pm: |
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Interesting discussion. How does the new Astroplane with 7.5 dbd gain compare with the I-Max 2000 or Big Stick?
Mikefromms |
Tech833
| | Posted on Sunday, June 08, 2003 - 11:27 am: |
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The Astroplane does not have 7.5 dBd gain.
There is an entire article in the subscriber section that answers your question in detail with precise information. |
bruce
| | Posted on Sunday, June 08, 2003 - 2:14 pm: |
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833 You meen someone would FIB about CB antenna gain! WOW you learm something new every day....
RULE REAL GAIN ...... good enough for goverment work .... AKA BALLPARK.
!/2 wave over 1/4 wave ...... about 2 db
5/8 wave.......... 3 db
To get 7 db you would have to stack 3 1/2 wave antennas on top of each other and correctly phase them ( hight about 60 foot )
All that said the astroplane is a fine antenna with a long record of trouble free service but your right no 7 db gain! |
Tech833
| | Posted on Sunday, June 08, 2003 - 9:06 pm: |
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As long as the last 'd' in dBd stood for 'dummy load', or 'doorknob' or 'disconnected coax' then they might be right. |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Sunday, June 08, 2003 - 10:47 pm: |
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Good discussion guys. I am an amateur Extra class radio license holder. Just testing the water.
I'm very impressed with what I read here. I still love Cbs. To some people that is a crime.
I'm wanting to set up an 11 meter groundplane. Obviously, I want to go with the highest gain which will be the 5/8 wavelength. The new Astroplane claims to be 5/8 wave, but how can I be sure. Also, Shakespeare claims their Army Big Stick is 5/8 wave. I know Shakespeare has a long time-tested reputation. I don't know about Top One Astroplane. I'm afraid they are build like the new StarDuster everyone describes as cheaply made. I don't want to fool with I-Max 2000 because I'm afraid it would take the wind very well. I think that has been proven. Too bad, seems like a great antenna. Anyway, Top One Astroplane or Shakespeare 21' Big Stick?
Let's get into some good reasoning and discussions.
Thanks,
Mikefromms |
Tech808
| | Posted on Monday, June 09, 2003 - 9:15 am: |
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Mikefromms,
Read the Excellent article that Tech833 wrote about "How to choose a Ground Plane Antenna."
It is in the Subscriber (Preview Section)
He devoted a lot of time writing & testing these antennas and making this simple chart for the Forum Members to help them decide which antenna would be best/work for them.
His article should answer all of your questions for you.
As for the Imax 2000 & wind, we are in a bad time here in Central Ill, as we have doubled the years record for Tornados already this year. Within 1-1 1/2 mile's from our house, I have 5 customers with the Imax 2000, and we have had winds over 60 with gusts up to 80 & 90 MPH over 20 times in the last two weeks and the Imax's are still up with no problems. One friend is less than a 1/2 block from us. Still up and working good!
If you want the EXACT TRUTH, NO BS read any of Tech833's Review's and Comments on Antennas.
Antennas, is his profession / job, and he is very, very good at it.
With several million's of dollars of test equipment for antennas, you can rest assured that his test's are very accurate.
Hope this helps.
Lon
Tech808 |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Monday, June 09, 2003 - 7:54 pm: |
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Tech808,
Thanks a lot for the information. Even though I am able to build my own antennas, it's a tall order to match the ones companies mass produce. (At least it is for me, anyway). I'm not a prescribed member here; so, I can't access the article you mentioned.
So, do you think the I-Max is the cream of the crop of groundplane antennas? Also, are there any users of the new Astroplane around here? I'm a little leary of "clones." When companies mislead people claiming outlandishly high DB gains on antennas, it makes you wonder if you can trust them at all.
Great website.
Mikefromms |
Tech808
| | Posted on Monday, June 09, 2003 - 9:07 pm: |
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Mikefromms,
All you have to do is go to the link to the left of this column where it says Register.
You do not have to fill in everything, only what you feel like sharing. All of your Personal Information is "Only seen by the Forummaster", who will send you your password.
Even us Tech's and Moderator's do not have access to it.
Re-submit the information and then the Forummaster will e-mail you a password so you will be able to use all parts of the forum.
This will only take a couple of minutes and you will enjoy reading all parts of the forum.
You will find a lot of information in other parts of the Forum, including reviews and in the Ask the Tech Section that will be a lot of help.
Most of the Techs read the tech sections first, as it is a lot easier for us than going through and reading all of the post's in the Open & other section's to try and find question's or problems.
But! we try our best to get to them.
I Hope this will help.
Lon
Tech808  |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 10, 2003 - 12:54 pm: |
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Lon,
Thanks for the help. Back in the late 80's and perhaps early 90's I used to get the Copper Electronics catalog. I remember the really "cool" articles on modifying Cbs and enjoyed the magazines very much. Just ordered one the other day. I have ordered from Copper several times--if this is indeed the same company I remember. Seems I used to call it Coppers. I guess they are the same.
Thanks again,
Mikefromms |
Tech808
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 10, 2003 - 3:38 pm: |
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Mikefromms,
Yep, same company since 1975.
Lon
Tech808 |
Tech808
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 10, 2003 - 4:06 pm: |
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Mikefromms,
Drop me an e-mail.
Were you able to complete the registration?
Lon
Tech808
Tech808@copperelectronics.com |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 10, 2003 - 7:17 pm: |
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Can't pull up my hotmail account. Should have used other address.
Mikefromms |
Tech808
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 10, 2003 - 7:31 pm: |
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Mikefromms,
You might be able to go back in and change your address.
Or write to: Forummaster@copperelectronics.com
and he should be able to change it for you.
Lon
Tech808 |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 10, 2003 - 10:16 pm: |
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Thanks Lon,
I finally got my hotmail account opened. I have my password and have read the article about how to choose an antenna. Seems like the Astroplane is what I need.
MikefromMs |
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