Handheld Direction Finding Antenna

thingiverse

This is a lightweight handheld antenna for precise transmitter tracking and source location. The frequency range depends on the utilized Log Periodic Dipole Antenna. I am using a printed circuit board LPDA from WA5VJB, offering a wide reception band of 900 to 2600 MHz. The printed circuit board antenna is securely housed within a specially designed radome casing that also makes use of printed components. You can find the necessary files here: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:464417 This handheld device comes equipped with an impressive range of features: • The grips are protected with Plastidip and Silicone rubber inserts (self-manufactured Oogoo) • A compass allows for source bearings to be determined; users have two options available: Analog or GPS (via iPhone, coupled with a Griffin case) • A detachable armrest provides comfortable support during extended use • This Direction Finding Antenna can be effortlessly attached to a camera tripod • The entire antenna unit is fully removable from the housing • Wideband performance is provided within a compact package • Polarization can be switched between horizontal and vertical modes using an easy-to-use rotating mechanism • WA5VJB PCB antennas are known for producing outstanding radiation patterns • Its unique pistol-grip design ensures that it remains small, light (approximately 375g without iPhone), strong and easy to handle with just one hand • Printed parts, comprising the majority of the structure, have a solid build quality courtesy of PLA material at a layer height of 0.2mm. Additional information about this handheld Direction Finding device can be found on my blog Die Bastelkammer; it explains how the radome housing and handheld grip with armrest were initially conceptualized. Here is the latest blog post for further insight into the project: http://diebastelkammer.wordpress.com/2014/10/25/rdf-handheld-direction-finding-antenna-nun-mit-iphone-gps-kompass/ The following are required parts beyond what's printed: • 20mm diameter Aluminium tube, length 275mm • One M6 screw with a length of 50mm • Self-locking nut with an M6 thread size • One nut in 3/4” standard thread • Three small nuts with an M3 thread size • A single M3 threaded bolt • Oogoo or Sugru adhesive sealant for water and chemical protection