AMSAT-SA Dual-band 145/435 MHz Yagi
AMSAT SA have made available a new dual-band 145/435 MHz Yagi antenna for amateur satellite operation.
The Yagi has a unique element called an ‘Open Sleeve’ which is a director very close to the driven element. The driven element is sized for 2 metres. When operating on 70 cm the ‘Open Sleeve’ acts as part of the driven element on 70 cm (Third harmonic of 2 m).
The AMSAT SA version is based on a design by Martin Steyer, DK7ZB with modifications by the late Larry Brown, WB5CXC. The first South African version was a collaboration between Guy Eales, ZS6GUY and Gary Immelman, ZS6YI. It was developed for YOTA 2018 where young people successfully used the antenna operating satellites using hand-held transceivers.
The mechanical structure of the AMSAT SA version was redesigned by Gary, ZS6YI. A choke around the boom was added to isolate the antenna from the coax and reduce the effect human contact has on the antenna. A handle was added on the boom end which makes it more comfortable to hold and further isolates the antenna from the handler.
The antenna is plug and play. No tools are needed except for soldering on a connector to suit the application. It comes complete in a carry bag with full instructions. This antenna can be assembled and dissembled in minutes. For more details and how to order, visit http://www.amsatsa.org.za/
SARL and AMSAT SA members get a discount.
Source SARL News