fpv 10 turn helical antenna for 5.8ghz

thingiverse

Based on Ibcrazy's design (<http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1377791>) and Mictronics dimensions (<http://www.mictronics.de/2011/07/5-8-ghz-helix-antenna/>), the groove is for a 1mm wire. A cavity exists in the middle to accommodate a M3 nylon nut; pause the print when there's enough space for it. The cavity height is 12mm, so no rush is needed. In MakerWare, add a tall object far from the antenna for pausing the print when the extruder is distant. This design boasts a tested flying range of 11km with a blue antenna, an Immersion RC 600mW TX, and suboptimal setup. A PCB acts as the helix's reflector with a footprint for a RX5808 module on the backside. The helix wire solders directly to the module. To maintain compactness, the module had to fit over the screw hole, necessitating gluing the 3D-printed part to the PCB. Modifications in helical1.30-5.8brd.STL file include a piece fitting into the PCB for centering and a larger groove for better wire fitment. The PCB also has footprints for 2x 1210 caps, solder pads, mounting holes, and an LED. ENIG (gold) coating was used for better looks and potential performance. Order this $14 PCB (free shipping for 10 pieces; I earn $1 per order) from <http://dirtypcbs.com/view.php?share=3039&accesskey=e696102560b3dfbac885f18af5cd0822>.