DX Commander And A Window Screen

How Would A DX Commander Work With A Window Screen Ground Plane? 17' Whip Vs DX Commander. A 50 Watt HF Amplifier For The Icom IC-705.
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[@SFJF26]

Jusst Dooiit- Billy Madison

[@AlvinMcManus]

Sure do the screen test. You're fun to watch!

[@VE2FGJ]

I would like to see Mike fly on the magic carpet!

[@amnchode]

Tip for all those that use 17' whips. Take a Sharpie, tune each band, and then mark the whip. This should get you well within the ballpark of the band, regardless of ground conditions, that all it should take is a minor tweak (or 2) to "maybe" fine tune it....otherwise it should be fairly good to go from there. Makes it much easier, and quicker, to change bands....you can do the same with a WRC 😉

[@temporarilyoffline]

You're a funny guy Mike - I remember when you first got the DXC and we talked about putting those bottom plates on and leaving them on. I know you'll try the screen... and it will be fun if nothing else.

[@Sean-AI7EQ]

Mike, as a DX Commander ProHam, I think it's your responsibility to test the DX Commander and window screen set up lol. Great videos as always, keep up the good work and POTA on!

[@N2YTA]

Mike, the window screen thing certainly works. You’re correct about the screen having memory and wanting to keep coiling up; and the aluminum splinters are a thing. The up side is the small foot print. I don’t have to worry about people tripping over my radials. I keep the screen in the trunk of my car and use it when the situation dictates. Ps: love your videos!

[@Tommy-K4BWN]

I have done like Michael KB9VBR and I got me some Faraday cloth it works excellent with my MFJ-2286

[@chrisranes7964]

Hi Mike! Great video, thank you! I can totally relate to the situation many of us face. In my case, the only way I managed to achieve a decent SWR was by connecting the WRC to a magnetic mount on my car. I tried ground mounting with radial wires and even experimented with an alternative radial wire design using extension cords, but I couldn't get the SWR to drop below 2:1. However, once I switched to the mag mount, it improved significantly to 1.4:1 or even lower, and the performance was great! One interesting observation I made was that when the ground mount was positioned in the middle of the screen, I couldn't achieve a good match. But when I moved the screen to one side, the SWR dropped drastically, and I had a much better match of 1.2:1 or less across most bands. I'm not entirely sure why this is the case, as Mike KB9VBR always places his mount in the middle and has no issues. For stability in the field, I used four small rocks from our landscaping to secure it, and it worked perfectly fine. In the end, go with whatever setup works best for you. If you decide to give it a try, you might be pleasantly surprised by the results! Wishing you all the best! 73 de NS8Q

[@kd5you1]

I've noticed that whenever I used a vertical HF antenna, the SWR would improve if I simply raised it higher off of the ground. I haven't tried raising the WRC but I did try it with a Buddipole Deluxe. Also the idea I was thinking about the screen is that even though it covers more area around the base of the antenna, it isn't the same length as the radials. 73 KD5YOU

[@jolebole-yt]

I did my first Pota activation with the SotaBeams Bandhopper. 10min to setup, no tuning needed, just connect or disconnect the clips to change a band. Simple as beans.

[@vicmiller7191]

The Screen thing just cracks me up, I have been involved in Radio for over 50 years and it seems like 100 sometimes, but the rage was using copper screen for ground plane oh about 35 or 40 years ago and it was what you kinda did when setting up verticals for a permanent setup except you buried the mesh under the soil. and becasue of that I think it just fell out of favor. But like history things do repeat them selves in life. Thanks Mister and if you did the experiment I am sure it would help validate questions for the ones that want to see it work. I for one know it will work since many years ago I did bury a few copper screens. Thanks for a good Video and 73. Vic de KE8JWE

[@hamradiotube]

Yeah it is most certainly a thing of the past that is coming back for sure. But, there is a whole new generation of hams who want to experiment who may not realize that it's been done before. Myself included.

[@n0vty873]

Some of us did aluminum screen ground planes 30 years ago. Can also use 6 inch wide aluminum gutter screen, smaller and easier to use. And cheaper

[@sinisterpisces]

I'd love to see the screen test. You explained exactly why it'd not be ideal for a temporary installation, but if it works I think it'd be great for a (semi-)permanent setup, even where you otherwise have room for radials. I have a ton of mobility issues and use a walker, and my Dad is 80; I've always been concerned I'd get tangled up in a radial field, and I don't really want him trying to navigate them either. It'd be even better if the window screen doesn't actually have to be on the ground at all. It sounded like from your video that might be the case?

[@Trent28888]

I would do the screen test Mike due to the difference between a loading coil but also being a proper test on a non loaded 1/4 but also 80M and the rest of the bands

[@hamradiotube]

80's not going to happen but if I do try this it will be 40-10, maybe 6?

[@larryfavreau334]

With my Wolf River coil I couldn’t get an SWR under 3 (I assume because my entire backyard is artificial grass). Got myself a screen and now I easily get an SWR between 1.2 and 1.4. So the screen definitely works! Btw, I love the ROUS shirt!

[@hamradiotube]

Farm boy, fetch me that pitcher...

[@PatrickKQ4HBD]

Thanks for pointing that out. My favorite movie of all time.

[@kellydjohnson]

What band were you on and how many radials did you use?

[@W9HJBill]

I use the Xiegu XPA125B for both my G90 and 705, but yeah, it ain't cheap. The auto tuner on it is a beast. As far as the portable DX Commander, I'm surprised you didn't put 4mm banana plug lugs on it and 4mm banana plugs on your radial wires. That way you don't have to undo the wing nuts and reattach them and risk losing them in the field. Banana plugs on radials make deploying radials so fast and easy and don't have to worry about some idiot tripping and pulling down your vertical.

[@AlvinMcManus]

Just love the mailbag Mondays.

[@coolspace2136]

I tried the window screen thing. It worked well for me. I only have one arm and I use a wheelchair, so I friggin hate radials. The screen thing eliminates tangled radial wires! Dang thing tries to roll itself back up, so bring a couple 4ft long 2x4's to keep it in place. Try it Mike. BTW, great videos. 73 - W5DUI

[@robcarnaroli269]

Nice shirt! Nothing like a good ROUS!

[@keithhawkins4641]

on the 17 foot wip. I have found that with a tape measure that I have marked the different lengths for the bands on the tape, works just as well as analyzer. You do need to stand up and walk over to antenna to measure it but does work well. DX commander is a great antenna and have one setup at home qth. I know there are tapes that are already marked for the bands but I am cheep sharpy works just as well

[@tommycheshire5508]

I would like to see you evaluate the window screen. Your word is the final word on any topic.

[@matthewkitchen5425]

I use a window screen for my “Hamstick Commander” in my attic for FT8 using my QDX. The DX Commander seems like rolling the radial wires out for portable would be easier to deal with than a screen that wants to roll back up.

[@bhaworth1]

I really need to see you do a window screen.

[@wolfwizard406]

Yuppers, Do the Window Screen… I have used it.. Roll it out and tent peg the corners.. or find 4 rocks.. 17 ft whip vs DX Commander.. The Whip.. A built in tuner can get you working just fine.. Former US Navy antenna guy here.. Aircraft Carrier and Submarine.. We had a saying.. “Less is More”. Take it deep .. And stay invisible..😎

[@shanejackson1973]

Just do it, Mike! Window screen all the way!

[@johnclark2149]

If you want to go Full Ham the Elecraft amp is a great option for an amp for qrp radios.

[@n3jw34]

Do the screen for the rest of us, O' High Priest of POTA! Get Satan to lay on the screen while you flatten and secure it with a few well-placed wire lawn-hooks. Even get Frank or Jason to join in! GRIN. Your channel still and by far, the "bestest" entertainment around. A Patron ....

[@barndweller4573]

Not only should you do the screen test, I think you should test different sizes of screen, you may even feel the need to "Tune" your screen. I purchased a screen to try with my Wolf River Coil but have not. The radials are not that big of a problem to me. The worst part is I have not been able to Pota for over a month, now thats a problem! Love your videos. From a Michigander DE K8OCN

[@charlesstrahin-wf3un]

Do the screen Mike! I use tape measures as ground plane but window screen for the humor of it all would be cool!

[@robwoodwe5495]

DO THE SCREEN. DO THE SCREEN !!! LOL... MIke - simply put - you do you.

[@mikethees6434]

here is a curve ball 2 quad outlet boxed grounded with braid everything terminated to the braid then extension cords as radials what do you think better than the screen i think

[@garykb4gm342]

Please test the window screen....For the simple fact that I am sure I heard myself during your live stream this past weekend and you failed to return my call AND the fact you seem to not want to try the window screen... LOL Great video mail bag. Thanks for the content.

[@hamradiotube]

Lol did you hear the pileup I had haha!

[@docsimonson]

A screen test would be good fun! I tried using a screen with a Super Antenna MP1 with good results on 20 through 10 meters, but I had to use the supplied radials to get 40 to tune. I'm not sure why. Anyone have an idea?

[@AliceAnn209]

Screen test? Yeah, just do it, Mike! The biggest pain with the DX commander is setting up the radial field. I mean, if you got the space, it's a wash. But if you don't, it would be interesting to see if this might speed up the setup. And don't bother with wrapping the screen around Lord Callum's fiberglass pole. Just put on some leather gloves (trust me, you'll need them) and roll the thing up. Rocks do a good job flattening it out - -doesn't have to be perfect. Hey - I really enjoy the videos and your attitude. Many thanks -- LeighAnn K6WXO

[@jerryKB2GCG]

Would love to see you do this with the magic carpet- Faraday cloth, which is very compt

[@J0HN3]

Foil tape or gaffers tape around the edges of the metal screen to avoid it cutting or catching on things? Just a thought. Would love to see you try it.

[@PatrickKQ4HBD]

Please do the test. A window screen test by someone already predisposed against it would be tremendously useful to us. I'm most interested in your opinion of the fuss factor.

[@willian.direction6740]

I just changed to an Endfed for SOTA and the only problem I have is getting sore from sitting in the one spot and not jumping up to swap links.

[@hamradiotube]

Dude, the struggle is real!

[@GregGiniel]

We need the screen!

[@kg4tri]

I live in a small 1 bedroom apartment(alone) I thought about a shot hustler antenna on a tripod and a window screen on the floor under it in my living room. The window is large and faces Northeast and I live on the top floor. The only reason you might want window screen is if you have no room for long radials like Me

[@marinevet7273]

I’d like to know if window screen could be used on DX Commander/permanent installation

[@hamradiotube]

I haven't tried that yet but there's no reason you shouldn't be able to.

[@souta95]

The screen seems to be a good idea for the way KB9VBR works POTA - When camping, keeping the antenna up for a day or two. It doesn't seem to be the most effective if you are going out to operate for a short period of time.

[@hamradiotube]

Yeah that's a good point. I only go out for a few hours at a time.

[@Gear4outdoor]

Most of the downsides of using window screen you mentioned would be solved by using “Faraday fabric”. That’s what I would like to see you try. I think it will surprise you. I will let you know how it works for me.

[@joebeasley3rd]

Do the screen! I can change bands on the 17ft whip in 10 seconds. Just write down how many sections you have to move down to get to the frequency. To go from 20m to 15m I have to go down 4.5 sections. I'm testing the screen right now, and 20m is at 1.1, so you have to do it.

[@lawrencethompson465]

Hey Mike, Interesting video. I don’t use an amp but did find your info on the 50 watt amps helpful. You don’t need to try the screen wire as a radial for me but think you should satisfy your own curiosity. I’ve use it on Rybakov vertical (25’ wire) and seen good success with it. As for the screen rolling up or not staying in place just get 4 aluminum tent pegs 14:06 from Walmart and pin the corners. Works a treat! 73 N4LWT

[@KC3UVF]

I use a 17ft whip almost exclusively (apartment dweller. "base station" is not an option), and I assure you band changing is nothing like the process you describe. I use a pair of tuned, elevated radials banana clipped at the appropriate lengths and the whip is marked. I can change bands in barely over a minute. Is it is fast as an efhw (which I have and deploy sometimes) or your dx commander? No, but neither is it as onerus as you claim :)

[@ke4gjg]

Do the window screen!! / chicken wire ?? 🤠 lol love the vids

[@jamesgenn6469]

Please do the window screen test to prove it to yourself - it works!👀

[@jamess1787]

K8MRD: if you do a window screen ground plane, please make sure it's the nylon kind; this way at least it won't rust. 🥁 😂 Thanks for the video.

[@hamradiotube]

Thanks for the tip!

[@charleyfarly3017]

I am curious about your feel between using a tenntenna and a Packtenna?

[@hamradiotube]

I support them both 100%. I use PackTenna in the field mostly but I do have every variant of the TennTenna. Both of my home antennas are TennTennas cut for 80 meters. One radiating N/S, the other E/W.

[@michaelko4ehb578]

A 36 x 84 screen is about $10 at one of the big box hardware stores. Screen memory won't be a problem since you are only going to do one test. Then, you'll have a replacement screen for one of your doors for when Satan decides he wants to let himself out and claws open the screen. Seriously, I would love to see how the screen pairs up with a DX Commander. Do it for science, Mike! Love the videos!

[@jlca320]

Do it Mike but don't wrap the screen around the mast. Just roll the screen up. I might buy a DX Commander for POTA if I didn't have to deal with those radials. I do use screen with my chameleon 17ft whip and my WRC tripod. When I used radials I always worried about people and pets tripping over them. I know of one person who had to go to court to get his radio repaired after a Karen's dog ran though his radials and coax. 73s

[@hamradiotube]

I don't think it would fit on the DXC mast rolled up. I use high viz yellow paracord to guy my masts and I've still had people walk into it. Stupid people are going to be stupid people. It's a shame we have to go to court over their negligence.

[@jamesmoore6424]

I had a giggle with the apps comment. I have an hf amp that wants 5 watts input... unfortunately it draws heaps .. I haven't had a chance to measure it however it is supposed to be 600watts out... so you would need a 100AH battery making it not so portable 😅

[@SteveBerwick]

I made a contact in Germany on 15 meters using my IC-705 yesterday on 10 watts from Atlanta GA. I frequently contact VE2NTT in Quebec. I don't see the point in getting a 50 watt amplifier for the IC-705. If he's having trouble making contacts in this part of the solar cycle, he should focus on a proper QRP antenna. My primary antenna is the KM4ACK EFHW. Cheap kit worth every penny. Highly recommend. Much cheaper and less junk to drag around to a park activation. My entire setup fits in a lunch box, sans the arborist throw-line.

[@hamradiotube]

You're not wrong at all, but a good antenna and more power is certainly going to help get into the pileups.

[@SteveBerwick]

@@hamradiotube Agreed. My pileup strategy is to avoid them. But in the case of 13 Colonies or Field Day, I try to be First or Last. 😆 My brain assumed he wasn't able to make *any* contacts. As was the case for me, when I was running a Chamelon EMCOMM. I couldn't contact anyone and thought QRP was a waste of time. Until I tried a QRP specific EFHW, and now I make contacts all over the place. I absolutely smash Europe on FT8 at night. 73

[@Taylor-KY3G]

What is the best window screen to log my contacts with?

[@hamradiotube]

See now that's the million dollar question isn't it?

[@jackK5FIT]

I saw the screen videos and was intrigued by them but not to the point of actually trying it. I have the same OCD objections. Thanks for another great video. Jack K5FIT

[@jackK5FIT]

Update... I bought a Wolf River Coils with 17ft whip and have used a piece of faraday cloth as a radial. I did my last POTA with that setup. The cloth folds up micely and fits in the bag with the antenna. Very good swr on all bands.

[@tracymoon4437]

I want to see you test the screen

[@angelscomputers]

I dot know if you ever did the test but how about do it with the “magic carpet” people are talking about. (a faraday cage fabric) you won’t have to deal with a screen, just a folding sheet.

[@billjobes1851]

Mike, do the screen/DX Commander drill. I plan to sit here at the monitor until you do and post it, so please don't take too long.

[@hamradiotube]

Hahaha!

[@betterbprepared]

Hey Mike, please do the window screen. I am curious to see if you get the same results that KB9VBR got. I have noticed that all of his videos have been using that window screen since he tried it.

[@BenButler1]

Do it Mike!

[@stevenemert837]

Well, of course do the window screen! Maybe it would help you overcome your neatness obsession and OCD!

[@SCTaylorTX]

Window screen Mike! Do it!

[@PaulGriffith]

Adding a window screen is like doubling the number of radials, there is a point of dimishing returns and I don't think it would provide much improvement.

[@AlvinMcManus]

So what about the new Faraday Fabric?

[@vladtepes481]

The screen will be effective if large enough but as you say it could be a PIA.

[@ToiToiTrimmer]

Yup, do it, with more than one screen if needed

[@gregmihran8616]

Love your new EOV scene inserts e.g. Marvel movies. I now patiently wait for each Radio Stuff finale post credits! U da rocker man 🎸😃73 KJ6ER

[@hamradiotube]

I did a Marvel thing?

[@gregmihran8616]

@@hamradiotube Yep. Post credits final video segment. U are far more artistically brilliant than u realize mi amigo 😃

[@wildbill1]

I Operated field day using a 25ft length of screen and my Wolf River coil.Yep i bought the BIG roll. 0n 20m my SWR was flat. Kb9vbr only used a 10ft length i think. is more better? I dont know but it worked. Youll need some kind of a weight or ground stake for the ends to lay flat. Wouldnt be a bad idea to use some duct tape or something around the edges, or yes you could get cut. goodluck! k8ob

[@brianjenkins-bfa1847]

Use a Faraday cloth instead. It doesn't have sharp edges and it would fold up a lot smaller than the wire mesh.

[@kellydjohnson]

From what I see the screen works. I would think that the radiation pattern would have to be different compared to radials. All I've seen though is here it tunes and I made some contacts. How about a test with a field strength meter. Other than the small footprint not sure what the real draw is.

[@hamradiotube]

I don’t really get it either but it is intriguing. I would imagine the radiation pattern would be even more omnidirectional but that’s just a guess. Unfortunately I don’t have a field strength meter to test but that would be some good science. The small footprint would really be the main benefit here though I think.

[@MattPatterson1411]

Chants….window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen..window screen.. peer pressure…peer pressure…peer pressure

[@renroderick]

Having lived with a 'stubborn German' for many years, I can understand your position. However, I would like to see the DX Commander with the window screen. Sounds like a valid/useful option for use in a more permanent location on 'iffy' soil or rocky land as an alternative to attempting to bury radials. (I'm actually considering using a roll of 4X4 inch square fencing. A 50ft roll of 4 or 6 ft fencing is not too expensive... ) Ren K7JB--

[@gotomt]

Do the window screen!!! 😊

[@jameski5oeb668]

I will take my DXC Classic to a park soon. I will let you know how it works, but I'm not wrapping the screen around my mast. 73

[@philliporr5610]

Yes! Screen please!

[@spikeywayent]

Lets see you do the window screen...

[@KO4AFL]

lets try the window screen at Monte Sano

[@m7trsradio]

Mike do the screen test lol 😂 we all know it's going to work but want to see you do it 😂 73

[@hectormarchand9462]

Instead of window screen, use tin foil. After you’re done you can make and wear the hats… 😊

[@ATOMSHAMRADIO]

😅

[@ATOMSHAMRADIO]

I used 2 102 inch whips as a rotating dipole

[@ATOMSHAMRADIO]

Rabbit ears😂 your bed springs😂

[@Ben-md9yx]

No. The tin foil is for the nasty grill for dogs and burgers. 😂😅

[@hamradiotube]

A tin foil hat? In the Texas heat? You must be crazy! :)

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

OK I’ll be the one guy here that says, let the window screen die.. Don’t do it 😂

[@edppdsc]

I agree with you

[@joekrepps]

The window screen ground plane makes perfect sense as someone who operates mobile. My Outback wagon is likely bigger than a typical piece of window screen. I'm definitely not trailing 33' radials out the back end (or the front!), but I'm over halfway on DXCC Mobile. Window screen could be a HUGE problem solver for HOA Hams or people who just don't have any kind of real estate for traditional radials. It also makes sense from the standpoint of using "a lot of short radials in place of a few long ones". I have a BuddiStick and if I can save myself time futzing with radials or a counterpoise, count me in. My only question is: Are window screens as _efficient_ as traditional radials. Love my FT-891/ATAS-120A _but_ I often wonder about efficiency, even on the higher frequencies. Tnx de WB3CFN/m

[@JarlSeamus]

I think the ROUS t-shirt is as good as the video! 7-3

[@hamradiotube]

Haha, thanks! Good to know the people who get it!

[@JarlSeamus]

@@hamradiotube By the way, you wouldn't by any chance, happen to have 6 fingers on your right hand?

[@markstrawcutter5838]

Yes, do the window screen test.

[@fm71450]

Please Do the Window Screen!

[@richardpena7275]

Screen, screen, screen!

[@jdgjhn1]

Window screen as ground radial. Do it. Do it now.

[@KU9L]

The screen rolls out or back in without fuss in 30 seconds, no more fuss with wires try a 36" x 84" aluminum screen & clip it to the mount, I spike my mount right through the screen, instant POTA. Seriously, to each his own, but it's fun to experiment. It won't help APRS get fame though, liol. Cheers, Davey - KU9L

[@hamradiotube]

Hey thanks for the tip. It’s still in the idea wheelhouse.

[@gregoryburbage7906]

For a amp, many try a rm italy HLA150........5 watts in,130-140 watts out. Has pass band filters and 2 fans. I use one at home with a x5105 for a fun change in the workshop and a cobweb antenna and it works well......many not the best size for portable though. KC3OBQ

[@k4rsp]

alsolutely we want to see it

[@sv4rin]

Hello mate, this is SV4RIN , Vasileios , from Greece. About the window screen : what if a fire / safety blanket is used? Would it be the same ? It’s metal , anyway….

[@KC1PDW]

Window screen. I say go for it.

[@jamesmoore6424]

Try the screen at home for the viewers... try it with a couple or more antennas...

[@AlvinMcManus]

Gonna have to save my pennies up to get that Xiegu amp for my G90.

[@jerryKB2GCG]

Do the window screen😂😂😂KB2GCG (the rabble rouser)

[@longtonailtrdwtr8715]

Try it with a faraday blanket.

[@Mr4Brown]

As soon as you mentioned there might be blood, you have to do it You should try it, what could go wrong?

[@hamradiotube]

What could go wrong? Famous last words!

[@wildbill1]

Do the screen mike! do it, do it, do it!

[@MrStanwyck]

Do the window screen…. Just do it, do it…. LOL..

[@dkillian33]

Heck do the screen it is the latest fashion join the fun.

[@hamradiotube]

You're very kind to suggest that I follow the latest and greatest fashion craze. However, see "I'm a stubborn German" comment from the video lol!

[@BernieWimmers]

Do it!!!