The Delta Loop

This delta Loop is going to be slightly different as it's based on the M0PLK design which is the vertical triangle but with the 4:1 Balun at the base and is fed by a 450/600 ohm ladder feeder, the wire element is held in place by two fibre glass poles in a V position.

This is a multiband antenna that should cover 30 meters through to 10m. Trolling the internet I've been trying to find a replacement antenna that will not cause too many problems when its situated in my paddock. If you have read earlier posts, you will see I have had the local Council informing what I can and cannot put up!

This delta Loop should be camouflaged in front of some trees, does not need to be that high and is a quiet antenna that puts out a reasonable performance. Well that's what other users say on Eham, so I shall put it to the test and build one.

So far I have bought the two fibre glass poles at 7 metres in length although I suspect 5 metres will suffice. I've measured and cut the wire (17 meters) and ordered and received the main aluminium plate 350mm x 400mm, 8mm thick, which I have trimmed and drilled the holes for fixing the fibreglass poles. the idea being to make it reasonably close to the picture below of an original M0PLK Delta Loop.

The balun is fed with a 400/600 ohm ladder line and I have decided as a bit of fun to build my own 600 ohm ladder line.  I had a commercial 450 ohm feeder but thought as I'd never constructed a ladder line before I would give it a go, so if the 600 fails I can always fall back on the 450 ohm!

The main plate is made of 8mm solid aluminium 350mm x 400mm. I wanted something reasonably strong so I may have gone over the top but as far as I'm concerned the stronger the better.

You can see I've drilled the holes to hold the fibre glass poles these will be standard plastic brackets. The Balun is a small 200 watt 4:1 I had as a spare to show you where it will sit, but I have ordered a larger 1K version. The picture below shows the poles (not extended) in place together with the 16 gauge wire, just at the top of the picture is the home brew ladder line.

In the middle of the plate rising through the centre, a 5 metre two inch mast will be used for the plate to attach to, as you don't require any great height for this antenna, but obviously its the old story of any higher will be better, but I'm limited thanks to my Council!