Tune the Buddistick Like a Pro

[@MrMatlock79]

Sir, This is truly a fantastic video explains the importance of ‘balancing’ the antenna. I have been routinely struggling with this antenna. Between you and Ham Radio for Non-techies, I think I might be on the right path with this thing. Again, thank you so much! 73, KN4YGC

[@houseofhamradio]

Thanks Dale! I am so glad I was able to help you out. This is why I started this channel to begin with. I want to provide value to the ham radio community. 73s and best of luck with your Buddistick. Bob

[@paulsmietan5527]

Thank you for your explanations - the light bulb just went on!

[@houseofhamradio]

Glad it helped!

[@whippersnappercc]

I didn’t even think about moving halfway around the coil. Duh! I’m gonna try that. I also have shortened the whip a bit for a quick and dirty adjustment. I have been about ready to chuck this antenna after my last outing when I couldn’t get the SWR below 3:1. It has been a mixed bag for me. Slick design and great in theory.

[@houseofhamradio]

You can actually go around the coil in 1/4 turn increments. If you are not using one, I highly recommend an antenna analyzer as you spend much less time chasing your tail. Even if you go cheap with a nano VNA. Best of luck and 73s

[@HappyBum]

Yes, drives me nuts about every 4th time I use it. Sometimes it a real pain in the backside.

[@raspberryrobot]

very good BOB i just got a buddistick and non are very clear on tuning. yours is top notch.. tnx somuch good job... yes also moving the pin around the coil.

[@houseofhamradio]

So glad I helped you. That is my central focus for this channel.

[@danielzdanowicz6899]

Great info! Thanks for the tips!

[@houseofhamradio]

Thanks Daniel, glad it was useful.

[@kippercat123]

this may be a very basic question. So lengthening the coil OR counterpoise will make the antenna resonant on lower freqs and shortening it will make it more resonant on higher freqs correct ? Which should I do first to aim for resonance .... the counterpoise or the coil ?

[@houseofhamradio]

So it is a balancing act. Since it is an elevated counterpoise, it is actually a radiating part of the antenna. That being said, As one side (vertical element or counterpoise) gets longer than the other, it will change the feedpoint impedance. So what I recommend is to start with the Buddipole suggested tap points (counting coils) and then adjust the counterpoise starting at the suggested colored marks. If your lowest SWR is higher than you want, lengthen the counterpoise. If it is lower, shorten it. If the SWR dip is higher than 1.5:1 you may want to adjust the tap point a quarter turn or so and see if that helps, You will have to adjust counterpoise again. I cannot recommend enough having either a good antenna analyzer or a nanoVNA to help with this. Will save you a ton of time and aggravation. Best of luck.

[@kippercat123]

@@houseofhamradio thanks for sharing. Looks like I will have to do some note taking during my learning experience ( that I expect ). thanks again.

[@duncanchaboudy4187]

Great video!

[@houseofhamradio]

Thank you! I am trying to build a channel with additional info to the many other great ham radio channels out there.

[@HamRadioPortableOperations]

Hello Bob from across the pond. What are you using to keep the counterpoise raised? These looks like walking poles? 73s

[@HamRadioPortableOperations]

Ignore me Bob, I've just watched your other review video that you suggested at the beginning (hihi) Shooting sticks, I like that idea... I have been thinkin of walking poles. I subscribed and hit like button on both videos. Many thanks. 73s

[@houseofhamradio]

Hey Kev, walking sticks will work too. I would use a bungee cord to hold them together at the top though. Best of luck and 73s

[@chipmorgan6951]

New to the hobby, is this considered a resonant antenna?

[@houseofhamradio]

Yes, you could consider this a resonant antenna. That being said, since it uses a loading coil, it may not be as efficient as a full length resonant dipole but there are other things to consider with that such as height and configuration. Bottom line: You should be able to use this and other like it without needing an antenna tuning unit. Best of luck in your ham radio journey.

[@chipmorgan6951]

@@houseofhamradio 10/4.. great videos.. trying to operate both mobile on the road for work and at home on my 4th floor condo roof with HOA restrictions in downtown FW.. thanks sir KJ5CZE

[@k2cjbradio]

Excellent video! Thanks! Subbed! 73 de K2CJB

[@houseofhamradio]

Thanks for your comment and subscription. Glad you found it useful. 73s WV7W

[@SteveH-TN]

Thanks for sharing this video and your thoughts. de AA4SH Steve

[@houseofhamradio]

My pleasure!