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IK-STIC
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"IK-STIC" by W2IK
The "IK-STIC"  is essentially a multi-band vertical dipole antenna which is used in the field for quick set-up and quick band change. Since operation on each band requires antennas of different lengths,  I devised a quick method of modifying the length to suit the band you choose to operate. There are no coils or traps. Each dipole band gives 100% radiation, thereby allowing maximum signal at maximum height.
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TO BUILD THIS ANTENNA YOU NEED:

click above for link (telescopes down to 3.8 feet !)
OR
1 - WorldRadio SD-20 TELESCOPING MAST AND 1 PIECE of 12ft. 1 1/2 inch PVC pipe.
(Cheaper than the MFJ purchase, just as good)
 (insert SD-20 one foot into PVC and put a stop bolt in the PVC so the pole won't slide down further)
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You might wish to make an additional support (from PVC pipe) to hold the mast upright (or you may skip this and lash the mast to a tree or any NON-CONDUCTOR)

1 - either "CB" or 10 meter dipole antenna
(I bought a "CB" dipole, with center connector..  Workman Model BS-1)
(or you can build one using insulated wire) (see fig. 2)
.
1 - roll of STRANDED, insulated connection wire
(Radio Shack  size #18-22  100')
.
Several Spade Connectors (Home Depot)
 (both male and female with insulated covering)
BUILDING THE ANTENNA
Fig.2  Dipole with spade terminals
Take the "cb" or ten meter dipole antenna, which already has a center UHF conector to accept a coax cable, and measure each side from the center. Trim EACH SIDE so that you have 8' 3 1/2" measured from the center. This makes a dipole of 16' 7" ..or a 10 meter dipole. At the ends of each leg, strip off about 1/4" of the insulation and attach a spade connector and crimp it AND solder it in place. see Figure 2.
MAKING "BAND ADDERS"
Next, for each band other than 10 meters you wish to operate on, you will need to build "adders" for EACH leg of your ten meter dipole.  For example: If you choose to make the dipole operate on 15 meters, the length of a 15 meter dipole is about  22' 2" or 11' 1" on each leg. Since you already have a dipole length of 16' 7", or 8' 3 1/2" on each side, you just need to make  two "adders" of  2' 9 1/2".  Cut two EQUAL lengths of stranded wire (each 2' 9 1/2") and add the opposite-type spade connector, so it mates with the ones you placed on the 10 meter dipole (see fig 3) crimp AND solder. You need only add it to ONE end of each "adder". When these wires are added to the 10 meter dipole, you now have a 15 meter dipole. Make other "band adders" using the same method. You see how easy it is to make "adders" for every band you choose to operate. I made them for 5 bands all the way to 40 meters.(see fig.4)  DON'T  try to skimp by trying to make "adders" on "adders" as it will make your set-up very complicated.
FIG. 3
Adder sizes: Make TWO (one for each side) 15 meters: 2' 9 1/2"  20 meters: 8' 2"   40 meters: 24' 6"   17 meters: 4' 7 1/2"   note: all approximate lengths.....mid bands
FIG. 4
SET UP AND OPERATION
Before you set your antenna up, mark which side of your 10 meter dipole antenna is connected to the CENTER of your coax connector. This side needs to be the highest in the air for best results. Decide which band you wish to operate on and connect your "adders" as needed (one on each side of the dipole). Take a rubber band and use it to hold the end of your "adder" to the TOP of the fully extended mast. Make it a very snug fit as this will hold the antenna as it runs down the mast.
 You may wish to use a small amount of tape to hold the antenna to the mast just above the connector point to reduce any additional stress should you tug on the cable.  Now add your coax to your antenna allowing it to flow down freely. The lowest end of your antenna wire should now be taped or rubber-banded to the low point on the mast. The antenna will not run to the ground unless you made a  30 or 40 meter antenna or used the Worldradio mast w/pvc. If you did, just tape where it meets the lowest point of the mast and let the additional wire rest on the ground in a straight line. (Be sure NO ONE comes in contact with the wire during operation.) Note: This is a vertical antenna. It can be used in tight spaces where an inverted "V" , etc cannot fit. (such as a limited area campsite) It needs no guys !
Any time you wish to change bands, just exchange the "adders" for the pair that matches your new band...I find this takes less than 2 minutes.  So there you have the "IK-STIC" , all band antenna that weighs less than 5 pounds, needs NO tuner, and you can take it ANYWHERE ! I have worked hundreds of hams in dozens of countries while camping and at special events.
I hope you enjoy it too! Remember: It's called the "IK-STIC" by W2IK !
  ( the ideas described may not be reproduced without author credit )
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