Quote:
Originally Posted by John_W
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Your alternatives for a fixed antenna are basically two:
1. A disguised outdoor Flagpole antenna, or
2. A hidden antenna in the attic.
As you explore the web sites linked above you will find diagrams for installing hidden indoor antennas in the attics for many of the models of homes built in The Villages.
Personally, I have chosen, with a good deal of success, to erect a temporary antenna at ground level for the brief periods that I am actually operating my ham radio. I use the Buddipole HF antenna. In order to make it efficient I have had to spend the money for a good quality antenna tuner. I mean a real tuner that I use to adjust the antenna to the resonant frequency, not a "tuner" that simply fools the radio into believing that the antenna is properly matched.
There are other alternatives, but I have had very good success with the Buddipole.
Here's the interesting part. I read in a forum somewhere that buried somewhere in the covenants is a rule against transmitting radio signals on the ham radio frequencies from anywhere in The Villages. I don't know that this could actually be enforced, but most hams that I know of make an effort to keep their operations secret, even from their neighbors. If spotted putting down radials for your Flagpole antenna, claim that the radials are "lightning protection."
Actually, I have come to doubt that claim based upon the fact that The Villages Amateur Radio Club is being permitted to operate publicly at Lake Sumter Landing in November. "TVARC Radio on the Square 2016" will be held on Saturday, November 26, 2016, from 9 am to 3 pm, at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square. Event Chair is George Briggs (K2DM).
You will probably get a lot of help if you attend a club meeting of The Villages Radio Club. Dates, time and location can be found on the club web site.
73
Carl W4EIB