← Learning path overview
STEP 01 / 06 · ABOUT 5 MIN

Start with the purpose

Frequency, installation and polarisation guide the plan.

Before calculating an antenna, describe the task: which frequency range do you want to receive or use, where can it be installed, and what feed line is needed? An antenna is part of a system that includes its surroundings, feed line and radio.

For a direct link, polarisations should ideally match. A horizontal dipole and a vertical radiator are therefore not simply interchangeable. Buildings, reflections and propagation paths can change actual conditions. A model explains relationships but does not guarantee range.

Your turn.

Plan a 145 MHz receive setup on paper: location, available height, orientation and cable length. This path requires no actual antenna or transmission tests.

Basics: groundplane →Antennas in my station →
UNDERSTAND & APPLY

Check your understanding

What do you need before a useful length calculation?

Sources & further documentation

Your learning path— / 6
  1. Start with the purpose
  2. Turn frequency into length
  3. Divide the dipole
  4. Include the return path
  5. Separate SWR from loss
  6. Explain your design

After a check, progress is saved only in this browser. No account and no transmission to the server.

View all course progress →