Setting up my Super Antenna MP-1 in my back yard!

So I finally decided to dig out my Super Antenna MP-1 that I thought I didn't have any use for but raising it up in the air and adding a few proper(4 radials of 16' in length)radials I managed to work HI3TEJ with a 59+ signal and he said I was "very strong". I'm quite impressed considering it's a vertical up 15ft or so and with 10W. I'm glad I found a good use for this antenna as it's small space requirement makes it ideal for places where space is limited and also if you're in an area with no trees to run a dipole to.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• QRP
• MP1 antenna
• vertical
• DX
• ham radio

[rahulkapoor112]

I use MP1 modified with a home made extra long mast, and MFJ 10 feet Stainless Telescopic Whip. Also home made set of 4 radials using 1.5 mm dia flexi wire. As supplied the antenna is pretty useless. VU2YK.

[928GTSR]

@rahulkapoor112

Agreed,the antenna at low heights with the computer wire radials that are included does a lot of good at warming the ground but little else. When you have it up high enough,however,it becomes a pretty effective and stealthy radiator. It is a great solution when you're working portable in an area without any trees.  - Mike/KC2TAU

[supplysarge]

Nice job old man!

[928GTSR]

Thanks a lot! I was surprised it worked as well as it did. Adding as many radials as you can is the key with this project.

500ft spools of wire are cheap at local hardware stores and are great for this purpose. When you're done you'll easily have enough left over for,say,a mini beverage antenna!

[micheldezanger]

nice!!..

73

michel

ON3DCM

[928GTSR]

Thanks a lot Michel,I remember being disappointed with this antenna using the stock radial system.

When fellow hams says radials are the big key to verticals they are not lying! I now want to try my hand at homebrewing verticals and see where that takes me.

Take care, - Mike/KC2TAU

[395clive]

hi i bought the mp1 about 2 years ago well made and can,t fault it

[928GTSR]

Thanks a lot! I needed to see what happens when I raise the antenna a bit higher. I'm sure the results will be even better.

I've built a 2 element yagi for 20 and even less than 11 feet up it worked into Europe. I'm looking forward to seeing your video!

73, Mike/KC2TAU

[onexer]

Nice job mate. I see u enjoy. Today i`d finish my 3 element yagi for 20m. Tomorrow i`ll do a video for it.

All the best.

73 Good DX

Daniel

[928GTSR]

Not a problem,I used 4 16 foot radials made out of nothing more than basic hook up wire. The more radials the better,it's just a pain to travel with them as wire just seems to love to tangle itself together.... =) 73, - KC2TAU/Mike