Locations Moxon Pdf — Hf Antennas For All
Title: The Backyard Billion-Mile Beam
Leo was frustrated. He lived in a classic "deed-restricted disaster": a rental townhouse with no attic, a tiny patio, and a homeowners' association that banned anything taller than a tomato stake.
For six months, he fought with a ham stick. He tried an end-fed half-wave thrown into a maple tree. Nothing worked. On 20 meters, he was a whisper in a hurricane. "Sorry, Leo, you're down in the noise," became the hated refrain.
One rainy Tuesday, he stumbled upon an old QST article scanned into a PDF. The title read: "The Moxon Rectangle for the Space-Limited Operator."
He almost scrolled past. The word "rectangle" sounded boring. But the subtitle hooked him: "Two elements. 3 dB gain. 20 dB front-to-back. Fits on a painter's pole."
He opened the PDF. It wasn't like the thick antenna books he owned. This was a survival guide for the desperate.
The PDF explained the magic: The Moxon wasn't a Yagi. It was a folded, bent dipole that tricked the radio waves into thinking the antenna was twice as big as it really was. No massive booms. No giant rotators. Just two wires bent into a C-shape, spaced less than a foot apart for 10 meters.
Leo found the "Moxon Generators" online—free software that spat out exact cutting lengths. You typed in the frequency (say, 14.150 MHz), and it gave you inches: A, B, C, D.
The Build (The "Porch Session")
That Saturday, he bought 50 feet of 14-gauge house wire, a cheap 4:1 balun, and two fiberglass driveway markers for $8.
He followed the PDF’s sacred rule: "Square corners matter. Use a cardboard template."
By 3 PM, he had a floppy diamond shape hanging from a telescoping fishing pole tied to his deck railing. It looked ridiculous. It looked like a broken clothes hanger. But according to the PDF’s SWR charts, it was a laser.
The Test
That evening, a rare 10-meter opening to Japan appeared. Leo’s usual antenna would have heard static.
He pointed his "fishing pole Moxon" east by using a cheap compass app. He called "CQ DX."
A voice punched back. "Whiskey-Seven-Leo, you are 5-9 plus! Where is the beam?"
Leo laughed. "It’s a bent wire on a stick, Tokyo."
"Impossible," the voice replied. "You have no noise. You sound like a broadcast station."
For the next hour, Leo worked Japan, New Zealand, and Brazil. The PDF had promised a 20 dB front-to-back ratio—meaning he couldn't hear the neighbor's plasma TV or the HOA chairman's leaf blower behind him. It delivered.
Why the PDF Matters
That night, Leo printed the PDF, laminated the two pages, and hung them in his shack. The title read: "HF Antennas for All Locations: The Moxon."
In tiny text at the bottom, the author had written a note: "If you have a wall, a window, or a will—you have a place for a Moxon."
Leo finally understood. You don't need 100 feet of tower and an acre of land. You need the right geometry. The Moxon rectangle is the guerrilla fighter of HF antennas: small, stealthy, and shockingly fierce.
The End.
If you want the actual PDF: Search for “Moxon Rectangle Project” by L. B. Cebik (W4RNL) or use the free “MoxonGen” software. Most ham radio sites host the original 2-page build guide.
The reference to HF Antennas for All Locations refers to the classic text by L.A. Moxon (G6XN)
, which is highly regarded for its focus on practical antenna solutions for constrained environments, such as typical backyards. While Les Moxon is the namesake of the popular Moxon Rectangle
, the book itself is a broad exploration of HF antenna theory and design rather than a dedicated manual for that specific antenna. Report Overview: HF Antennas for All Locations Author & Legacy
: Written by Les Moxon, G6XN, a former radar and communications engineer. The book is considered a "must-have" for experimenters, focusing on achieving high performance without requiring massive space or complex mathematics. Key Content Practical Focus
: Designed for radio amateurs and SWL hobbyists who need effective antennas in "all locations," particularly restricted urban or suburban sites. Theory over Recipes : Reviewers from
note that it is not a "cookbook" of measurements but a guide to understanding
antennas work, requiring the reader to calculate dimensions for their specific frequency. The Moxon Design
: Though the "Moxon Rectangle" is synonymous with his name, only a small portion of the book resembles this specific design; however, his principles of rectangular shaping and critical end-spacing are foundational to its high front-to-back ratio and gain. Digital Availability
The full 1982 edition is available for digital borrowing or viewing on the Internet Archive
A searchable PDF summary focusing on new approaches and insights can be found on The Moxon Rectangle Antenna
For users specifically looking for the "Moxon" antenna mentioned in the title, here are its defining characteristics as described in technical reviews: HF Antennas for All Locations Reviews & Ratings - Amazon.in
HF Antennas for All Locations by Leslie "Les" Moxon (G6XN) is widely considered a foundational classic in the amateur radio community. First published in 1982, the book bridges the gap between dense theoretical physics and the messy reality of setting up antennas in restrictive environments like small backyards or urban locations. Core Content & Themes
Practical Problem Solving: Unlike academic textbooks, Moxon focuses on "real-world" constraints. He addresses issues like nearby obstacles, poor ground conductivity, and limited space.
Theory Without Overload: Reviewers from Amazon UK and Amazon.de highlight that Moxon uses simple mathematics to illuminate concepts rather than overwhelm the reader.
Beyond the "Moxon Rectangle": While Moxon is famous for the antenna that bears his name, this is not a book solely about the Moxon antenna. It covers a vast range of wire antennas, beams, and tuned counterpoises.
Terrain Effects: One of the book's most cited strengths is its deep dive into how local terrain influences HF signals, a topic often glossed over in other manuals. Pros and Cons Pros:
Authoritative: Written by a WWII radar specialist and communications engineer with deep technical mastery.
Broad Appeal: Helpful for both beginners looking for simple wire designs and experienced hams interested in gain and directivity.
Visual: Rich with sketches, examples, and charts to clarify complex antenna behaviors. Cons:
Non-Linear Structure: Some readers find the practical material scattered across different chapters, requiring a full cover-to-cover read to find specific building instructions.
Style: Described by some as a "challenging read" because it expects the reader to engage deeply with the logic rather than just providing "cook-book" recipes. Recommendation
This book is often recommended over the ARRL Antenna Book for those who want a deeper conceptual understanding of why certain antennas work in specific spots. It is a "must-have" for any radio enthusiast who likes to experiment or build their own gear. hf antennas for all locations moxon pdf
"HF Antennas for All Locations," authored by Les Moxon (G6XN), is a cornerstone of amateur radio literature. First published in 1982 by the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB), it remains a primary reference for operators seeking efficient antenna solutions in restricted environments. Overview of the Moxon Antenna
The Moxon antenna, or "Moxon Rectangle," is a compact, two-element directional beam. Its design effectively shrinks a standard 2-element Yagi to approximately 75% of its original size by folding the element ends inward. Building a 10 Meter MOXON Antenna - Easily!
HF Antennas for All Locations , written by the late Les Moxon (G6XN), is widely considered a cornerstone of amateur radio literature. While many associate the name with the popular Moxon Rectangle antenna, the book is actually a comprehensive guide to practical antenna theory and design tailored for typical backyard environments. Key Takeaways from the Book
Practical Focus: Moxon focuses on antennas that can realistically be built and installed in standard residential areas, emphasizing wire antennas as low-cost solutions.
Theory Over Math: Readers praise the book for providing a deep understanding of antenna "mechanics" without overwhelming them with complex calculus.
Broad Scope: Despite the author's famous invention, the book covers a vast range of HF types, including beams, verticals, and even tuned counterpoises. Community Perspectives
Readers often highlight that the book requires a thorough "cover-to-cover" study rather than being a quick-reference guide.
“I find this book superior to even the ARRL Antenna Handbook for building understanding.” Amazon UK
“It is not a book of Moxon antennas. In fact, only one example even remotely resembles the Moxon design.” Amazon UK Performance of Moxon Designs
For those specifically interested in the Moxon Rectangle mentioned in the text, community testing often reveals:
High Front-to-Back Ratio: It is highly effective at nulling out interference from behind the antenna.
Compact Size: It offers roughly 70% of the length of a standard 2-element Yagi, making it easier to mount and rotate.
Wide Bandwidth: It typically maintains a low SWR across a broader range of frequencies than similar designs. Digital Access
The book is available in several formats for those seeking a "pdf" or digital version:
Internet Archive: A digital version is available for borrowing or viewing at the Internet Archive.
Scribd: Excerpts and related documents can be found on Scribd.
Physical Copies: New and used copies are often available through Amazon or eBay.
Are you planning to build a specific antenna from the book, or Hf Antennas for All Locations: L.A. Moxon - Amazon.com
HF Antennas for All Locations: A Comprehensive Guide to Moxon Antennas (PDF)
Introduction
High-frequency (HF) antennas are a crucial component of any amateur radio or shortwave communication setup. With the increasing popularity of digital modes and global communication, having a reliable and efficient HF antenna system is essential. One popular design that has gained widespread acceptance is the Moxon antenna, named after its inventor, Les Moxon (G3PPT). This essay provides an in-depth look at HF antennas, specifically Moxon antennas, and their suitability for various locations.
What is a Moxon Antenna?
A Moxon antenna is a type of beam antenna that consists of two parallel elements, typically made of wire or tubing, fed in the center. The design is characterized by its compact size, simplicity, and excellent performance. The Moxon antenna is a form of a directional antenna, which concentrates the radiated energy in a specific direction, increasing the signal strength and reducing interference. Title: The Backyard Billion-Mile Beam Leo was frustrated
Advantages of Moxon Antennas
Moxon antennas offer several advantages that make them an attractive choice for HF communication:
- Compact size: Moxon antennas are relatively small compared to other beam antennas, making them ideal for limited spaces, such as urban areas or small backyards.
- Easy to build and install: The design is straightforward, and the construction requires minimal materials and expertise.
- Good directivity: Moxon antennas provide a moderate gain of around 6-9 dB, which helps to improve the signal-to-noise ratio and reduce interference.
- Low cost: Moxon antennas can be built using inexpensive materials, making them an affordable option for amateur radio operators and shortwave enthusiasts.
Considerations for Different Locations
When choosing an HF antenna, it's essential to consider the specific location and environment. Moxon antennas can be used in various locations, but some factors need to be taken into account:
- Urban areas: In urban areas, space is often limited, and Moxon antennas can be a good choice due to their compact size. However, the presence of buildings and other obstacles can affect the antenna's performance.
- Rural areas: In rural areas, there is often more space available, and Moxon antennas can be used to great effect. The reduced noise and interference in rural areas can also improve the overall performance of the antenna.
- Coastal areas: In coastal areas, the proximity to saltwater and the potential for high winds and storms require careful consideration when designing and installing an HF antenna. Moxon antennas can be used in coastal areas, but they should be designed and installed with these factors in mind.
Design and Construction
The design and construction of a Moxon antenna are relatively straightforward. The antenna consists of two parallel elements, typically 1/4 wavelength long, fed in the center. The elements can be made of wire or tubing, and the antenna can be mounted on a mast or a self-supporting structure.
Moxon Antenna Design Parameters
To design a Moxon antenna, the following parameters need to be considered:
- Frequency range: The antenna should be designed for the specific frequency range of interest.
- Element length: The element length should be approximately 1/4 wavelength at the center frequency.
- Element spacing: The element spacing should be around 1/8 wavelength.
- Feedline: The feedline should be matched to the antenna impedance, typically 50 ohms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Moxon antennas are a popular and effective choice for HF communication in various locations. Their compact size, simplicity, and good directivity make them an attractive option for amateur radio operators and shortwave enthusiasts. By considering the specific location and environment, and designing and constructing the antenna with care, Moxon antennas can provide reliable and efficient HF communication.
References
- Moxon, L. (G3PPT). (1982). The Moxon Beam Antenna. Radio Communication, 56(5), 21-25.
- G4EML. (n.d.). Moxon Antenna. Retrieved from https://www.g4eml.com/moxon.htm
PDF Resources
For those interested in a more detailed and visual guide, there are several PDF resources available online, including:
- "The Moxon Beam Antenna" by Les Moxon (G3PPT)
- "Moxon Antenna Design and Construction" by VK2CA
- "HF Antennas for All Locations" by ON4UN
These resources provide a comprehensive guide to designing, constructing, and installing Moxon antennas for HF communication in various locations.
The classic book HF Antennas for All Locations by Les Moxon (G6XN) is a seminal work for amateur radio enthusiasts, particularly those facing space constraints or difficult environments. Moxon is widely recognized for his expertise in designing effective antennas that prioritize performance even in restricted locations. 0x9900.com Moxon Rectangle Antenna
While Les Moxon wrote extensively about various designs, he is most famously associated with the Moxon Rectangle , a compact, directional two-element beam antenna. Albury Wodonga Amateur Radio Club Design Characteristics
: It consists of two folded elements—a driven element and a reflector—with a distinct air gap between their ends. Performance : It offers a high front-to-back (F/B) ratio
and gain comparable to a 2-element Yagi, but in a significantly smaller footprint. : It typically features a feed-point impedance close to , making it easy to match with standard coaxial cable.
: The design is relatively broadband, often achieving an SWR of 1.5:1 or better over a 1000 kHz range on certain bands. Accessing the Book and Technical Guides
If you are looking for digital versions or practical construction data, several resources are available: A 20 Meter Moxon Antenna - 0x9900
1. Theory & Advantages Over Other Small Beams
- Why a Moxon beats a dipole + reflector or a conventional 2‑element Yagi at the same size.
- The self-canceling side lobes and deep rear null.
7. Practical Build Plans & Templates
- Printable scale templates for wire spacing.
- Step photos from a 20m and 40m build.
- PVC conduit frame designs.
Example for 20m (14.200 MHz):
- A (Width) = 22.3 ft
- B (Depth) = 8.9 ft
- Element spacing (E) = 3.1 ft
Pro Tip: Build the antenna 3-5% longer than calculated. You can always shorten wire. You cannot stretch it. The Moxon is sensitive to corner angles (90 degrees is ideal).
Part 8: Performance Comparison – Moxon vs. The World
To convince you that the Moxon truly belongs in every HF operator’s arsenal, here is a quick performance matrix (for a 20m antenna at 25 feet height):
| Antenna Type | Gain (dBi) | F/B Ratio | Width | Noise Immunity | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 1/4λ Vertical | 0 | 0 dB | Very small | Poor (high noise) | | Half-Wave Dipole | 2.15 | 0 dB | 33 ft | Fair | | 2-Element Yagi | 6 | 15 dB | 18 ft (boom) | Good | | 3-Element Yagi | 7.5 | 20 dB | 24 ft (boom) | Excellent | | Moxon Rectangle | 5.5 | 28 dB | 13 ft (boom) | Excellent | If you want the actual PDF: Search for
The Verdict: The Moxon yields 91% of a 2-element Yagi’s gain but with superior front-to-back in half the space. For crowded bands, the F/B ratio is more important than 1 dB of gain.
Location 3: The Rural/Open Space Operator
The Challenge: You have room, but you want to focus on one specific direction (e.g., Europe from the US East Coast) without building a massive rotatable tower. The Moxon Solution: Build a monoband Moxon for 40 meters. At 7 MHz, the Moxon is 17.6 feet wide and 5.6 feet tall. This is dramatically smaller than a 40m Yagi (which would need a 30+ foot boom). Mount it on a lightweight TV rotator on a 30-foot wooden pole. You now have a rotatable 40m beam at a fraction of the cost.
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