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Tape Measure Yagi for 3/4" PVC pipe

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H2D
P1S
A1 mini
X1E
P1P
X1
X1 Carbon
A1
H2D Pro

0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 15% infill
0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 15% infill
Designer
2.5 h
1 plate
5.0(3)

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Description

Hi, l'm an amature radio operator avid transmitter hunter.  The tape measure Yagi is a must for any t-hunter and should be in any armature radio operators kit. Building a tape measure Yagi is almost a right of passage.  You can use a tape measure Yagi for lots of different things not just T-hunting including  FM Satellite contacts and ISS Satellite.  You can use it as a regular antenna and just aim it at your local repeater.

 

These are part of the kits that were handed out at Pacificon

 

There are plenty of tape measure Yagi plans on the net. The first time I tired to build a tape measure Yagi the cost seemed pretty high, with all the t-fittings and hose clamps.  Since I had a 3D printer I figures I could make the parts cheaper then buy them.  I could also customize it to my liking.

 

Here is my version of a tape measure Yagi mixed with some 3D printing.  

 

To start you will need ¾" PVC pipe. SCH80 or the 200PSI types both work I have found a length of 32" is just about right for a 2 meter 3 element

 

This model uses 1" tape measure, I usually source a broken one and can make several antennas from.   If you need to purchase - https://www.harborfreight.com/25-ft-x-1-in-quikfind-tape-measure-62461.html 

 

You will also need some small screws.  I use 5 Pan Head Phillips, #4 X 1/2 in that I had laying around.  I have found these quite cheep online and the local hardware store - https://www.amazon.com/Plated-Phillips-Sheet-Metal-Screws/dp/B00AM0Y0H2?gQT=1

 

Some sort of coax with your radios end on it.  I use BNC and like to run the coax on the inside of the PVC, using a panel mount connection on the end cap.  Zip-tie or just taping the coax to the outside of the PVC boom works too.  

 

here is a link to the instruction on how to build the tape measure Yagi: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UiCshifvfB6fmww_pHdM8AhMeZDjfZ_Q6kfa381uNlg/edit?usp=sharing

 

Depending on how you plan to use this I have found for basic use PLA is just fine. If you want to use this where it will be in very hot environment use PETG or ASA or long term outside use.

 

Supports should not be needed for this print, I did not use any 

If your printing the wall mount I recommend using something that will have a bit more give like ABS or ASA, PLA will work but will be harder to snap in and out. 

 

 

 

Comment & Rating (4)

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Print Profile
0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 15% infill
prints great used petg and went together easy under 2:1 across the entire band was able to receive and use a repeater about 30 away miles great build for ISS SSTV for new hams must have antenna build
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Thank you for the feedback and sharing your build!
(Edited)
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0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 15% infill
It’s my new best antenna! 1.01 SWR!
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0.2mm layer, 2 walls, 15% infill
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