144 MHz EME

My new antenna is an 8 element 2 meter quad from GB Antennas in the Nederlands. 

Gain: 13.0 dBd  Front/back: 25 dB Front/side: 35 dB SWR: 1.1 at resonance frequency SWR max 1.5 (144-146 MHz) Boom: 30 mm x 30 mm aluminium  Boom length: 2.35 m Spreaders: 8 mm fiberglass Max wind speed: 120 km/h Weight: 3.5 kg Power rating: 3 kW PEP Price: 150 EUR Scans from user guide: beam pattern, other data
Factory data. 8 element quad by GB Antennas.	My new 8 element quad - click picture to enlarge. The folding ruler on the floor is 1 m long.

Quad assembly hints
The quad is not difficult to assemble, but you will benefit from these hints:

1. Use the brown tube when fitting the element holders.
2. The antenna wire is strong and fitting it to the fiberglass spreaders is difficult. Assemble the wire hooks first, before fitting the loop to the spreaders. Use a tool to stretch the wire over the spreader. During my first attempt, I did it the other way around: Firstly I fitted the wire onto the 4 spreaders, and then I would assemble the wire hooks. The wire had strong tension, and one of the hooks slipped. It flew backwards and into my thumb. Aa-uu-www! 
3. If the wire can't slip over the spreader, you can cut off a piece of the spreader tip.

I am taking a break from EME planning and construction. I spend my time running JT65A on HF. I am also building a 1296 MHz transverter. 73 de OZ1BXM Lars

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