What do you think?

[cassidy1190]

I just read the post in the listener forum "Airband Yagi antenna designs" at http://www.liveatc.net/forums/listener-forum/airband-yagi-antenna-designs/. 

I am very intrigued by this, and have made yagis before, but for 800-900MHz.  I have yet to try one tuned to the airband. 

I am wondering if what I am trying to do will even be worth my efforts though.  I live on the jersey shore, very close to the ocean (1 block) and would like to try and pick up JFK tower, app and dep.  Do you think I would be able to here the controllers from where I am located with this antenna?  Has anyone else had luck with it before?  I really appreciate your input.

Attached is a NY sectional chart of where I am in relation to JFK, approx 30 miles southwest.

[keith]

I think the tower at JFK only contains the del/gnd/twr controllers. The app/dep controllers are likely to be at the N90 facility just west of FRG.

[dave]

I think the tower at JFK only contains the del/gnd/twr controllers. The app/dep controllers are likely to be at the N90 facility just west of FRG.

Actually many of the N90 transmitters are at JFK.  Some at HPN, some at EWR, some other places.

From Belmar you may be surprised at what you can pick up from JFK, even at 30 miles, with a gain antenna like a Yagi.  Especially if you have few near-field obstructions.  Sure be fun to try.

Check this reference, too:
http://www.milaircomms.com/artcc_zny.html

You have ZNY transmitters not far away, if you're into that.

-Dave

[cassidy1190]

Yeah this will sure prove to be interesting.  I'll probably be using 1/2" copper pipe for the elements, and will go with the 3 element design.  I don't think that adding extra directors will really improve my gain all that much on VHF.  

I am familiar with the ZNY stations in the area.  I can pick up Matawan sector controllers quite clearly with a discone antenna in the attic!  The milair around here can get interesting too with McGuire and ACY in the vicinity, but right now I am especially interested in tower communication, being that I just recently soloed in a controlled field for my private license.

Anyway, thanks for the inspiration.  I think I’ll definitely go forward with this project now.

[cassidy1190]

How important do you think the overall straigtness/sturdiness of elements is in a design like the one I am using?  The reason I ask is because I decided to change the 1/2" copper pipe to 1/4" coiled copper tubing.  Its much thinner and from what I understand more appropriate for the design, but alot softer, and not perfectly straight after uncoiling.