By Walt Hudson, K4OGO
Immerse yourself in a world of vertical beams, phased arrays, rhombics as well as some commercial offers from both sides of the Atlantic. Welcome to the latest edition of the Portable Antenna Sketchbook series from the pen of engineer and antenna aficionado Salty Walt, K4OGO.
The Next Level Portable Antenna Sketchbook moves on from his previous book, published last year, in which he reflected on a real amateur's experiments with antennas and the experience and pleasure gained along the way. This latest edition takes the reader into a more sophisticated and technical world.
Walt gives us a whistlestop introduction to the full range of antennas and urges us to have a go. It is better, he says, to have tried, failed and learned from the experience than to shy away and regret not being brave enough to have a go at building your own antenna. Money talks - it's important to everyone at the moment and Walt features several ideas that can be constructed on a limited budget. He sources his materials as cheaply as he can, even at junk sales. He tells stories of how he has acquired parts that have for years been gathering dust in a garage or a garden shed.
Some of the larger projects are suitable for a club project, either for construction or for use in training sessions for members. The book's attractive presentation makes it a perfect coffee table browse for those who are planning their next adventure. It is, for sure, a superb addition to a club bookshelf that aims to provide both information and inspiration.
It's a 'must read' for anyone looking to extend both their antenna knowledge and practcie and the fun they glean from the amateur radio hobby. Walt admits he's no antenna expert but his passion for the subject, coupled with the depth of his engineering knowledge and experience shines through. If nothing else, the message to the reader is clear: 'You can do this… let's get building!'.
Size 280x216mm, 132 pages, ISBN: 9781625952370
Non-members £24.41, RSGB Members £22.41
+44 (0) 1234 832700
