If you find that you must use a Diamond or Comet antenna, I would suggest that you at least solder each connection. The mechanical connections will cause you grief over time.
Also, take the time to seal the antenna joints (including the top cap) as they will allow water to find a way in. Even doing all this, you will probably be back to change out the antenna in 3 to 5 years unless a lightning strike brings you back sooner. There is no substitute for a commercial antenna. __________________________ Michael Murphy - KD8OK kd...@yahoo.com __________________________ ________________________________ From: Daniel G. Thompson <d...@waycom.com> To: dstar_digital@yahoogroups.com Sent: Tue, April 20, 2010 1:53:32 PM Subject: Re: [DSTAR_DIGITAL] Repeater stack > If you are installing a D*Star repeater stack (2m 440cm modules) can you > use a single dual band antenna for both modules or do you need separate > antennas for every module in the stack? > That somewhat depends on your preferences. If you are seeking decent performance then I would suggest not trying to combine them, but keep in mind that I would also suggest that you not use a Comet or Diamond antenna on a repeater. As long as you have the proper equipment to combine the signals there is no rule that says you can't do it, but I would warn you to that unless you are using gear designed specifically for the purpose of a repeater connected to a single TX/RX antenna system using two different bands you are going to have trouble. Take note of things like ham bands are all harmonics of each other and those little $60 "duplexers" are not designed to handle two 25W transmitters on two different bands operating at the same time. I think you will find this to be the sentiment of every repeater builder who has been around for the long run. None of them will tell you it won't work, as we have all had to scab something together in an emergency, but long term it is just grief. Dan Thompson d...@waycom.com
