The fact that the holes on the spreaders are tapped for the screws is genius because it keeps the bolts from falling out and getting lost. I just love your creativity. I am gonna get a Classic+80 as soon as they pop up on DXE. Want to save on that shipping ya know.
Thanks for the video and more bananas. I have had the full-size DX Commander installed up here in WV for about 3 years now and while it needs to come down every 6 months for grass clipping cleaning I have only had to replace one element for 40 Meters and that was due to wind when the antenna fell over. In the kit, Callum supplies extra cable and extra terminals so ongoing maintenance is an absolute breeze. W8BFO (Will) 73s peeps.
Hey Mike, well done! Just want to give the hint that adding a wire might de-tune the other bands (slightly) - before you fire up too much, you might want to double check that one as well 😃
Great video Mike! Did adding that element alter the tuning on the other bands in any way? I have the Expedition and the Classic 80M version. If I add another element to the Classic in this way, maybe 30M, I’ll pretty much be ruler of the electromagnetic spectrum🤟
Thanks for the video. I now know more about this antenna than before. It would be a good permanent antenna, but I consider it too much work to put up for portable use.
Nah, this thing is a breeze to set up portable. Takes like 15 minutes. Plus its resonant on so many bands. This one is designed for portable. The DX Commander Classic is designed more as a permanent antenna.
Hi Mike. My new and first DX Expedition is on the way. Where did you get slide on numbers. Great idea. Keep up the great videos. You are an inspiration .
The best antenna is the antenna that works best for you. However, I don't recommend ground mounted vertical antenna for crowded areas like what is seen in this video or neighborhoods for example and this is why. There is the nearfield, farfield, and freznel zones to which the vertical ground mounted antenna is affected most by the freznel zone. That zone extends out 2 wavelengths from any band you are working. If you have things in the way, like trees, shrubs, houses with electrical wiring, etc.. anything in the way, those objects can and will absorb, reflect signals from ground mounted verticals because the DX or low angles of radiation are most affected. Meaning, at ground level, how much sky can you see at 5 degrees of elevation? 20 Meters and lower frequencies are most affected by the freznel zone on a ground mounted vertical antenna. There is only one solution, and that is to get the antenna off the ground. For decades ground plane vertical antennas were usually always above ground, but over the past few years ground mounted is where hams are erecting their antenna's, without knowing why it used to hardly ever be done this way. Now you know why. 73
I'm really going to blow your mind you can run an element from the base plate up into a tree and run any bands you like. I made my own version of the DX commander I have a 40m element that I strung up in a tree off the base plate as well as the normal bands up the pole. I also find the higher the frequency the less well a vertical works compared to a dipole. For example a 10m dipole I found works better than a 1/4 wave vertical where as a 40m vertical works better than a dipole (in my experience) 73s
I love that. But did it change anything on the other bands? I noticed the cut length is not truly what you expect for doing single bands on each element. Seems there is some work across all the wires.
If I understand the design, it shouldn't. (I'm just an amateur, though. haha) Hopefully someone corrects me if I'm understanding it wrong. The other elements are capacitive at their non wavelengths, and all being connected on the same feed plate already. The element that is driving only oscillates at their specific wavelength/frequency. (Frequency increases inductive reactance, while decreasing capacitive reactance)
Yes it does. The length of the individual wires doesn't matter as much as the total length of all wires combined though. You can have many more shorter wires verses several long wires.
Mike, did you record a measurement for the final element length/fold? I can get close from your notes. Just looking for more data points for my “dossier” of DXC element lengths. Thanks.
did you change out the SO239 on your DX? I don't like mine it seems too short. Would like to change it out but haven't been able to find something. Thanks
Hmm, thats a long topic but...in a nutshell, A radio, antenna, coax long enough to get to your antenna, a power source like a Bioenno LiFePO4 battery (20AH should do fine), or if you have mains, a power supply. A computer or smart phone to log with (though some use paper). I prefer the HAMRS app: www.hamrs.app Water is always a good thing. Thats kinda it actually. Maybe it's not that long of a topic. I would suggest taking your station out in the yard and setting up. Thats a great way to practice doing portable radio. You can find out what you need and what you can leave behind. Plus, if you forget something, you just have to walk back inside. Make a check list of what you have when your station is operational and bring that. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. You will, and I still do to this day. Hope this helps and please hit me up if you have any more questions.
I agree with what's been posted, and I would like to add a foldable table, a foldable chair like from Harbor Freight, and some sort of pop up canopy for shade. I usually set up real close to my vehicle so I am not walking too far, however I know K8MRD has sometimes hiked a bit to set up so then he goes as minimal as he can. Whatever you do enjoy the hobby. N3EDO.
Nicely done Mike! The next time you have this set up in this same configuration with a 12 m attached, can you also run the SWR meter through all of the other bands and let us know what you see. I am of course subscribed with notifications turned on and thumbs up! 73 W3GUY Ernie
Hey Mike, bet that DX Commander works a lot better than the MFJ collapsable whip you used in NC 3 or 4 years ago huh? Have you used this antenna from your dad's place down there? Bet it's a nice place for lack of QRM/QRN down there, there's a lot of beautiful places down south -- few of 'em up here too. ;-) 73, Bob
Lol, just a little bit yeah :) I haven't used it at my dads and unfortunately he sold that house. It was really nice operating from there though. Zero noise floor.
I know you did a review on the antenna analizer, but noticed you been using it lately. How do you like it since you've had it a while? Great video too!!
Oh man, I love this analyzer. I use it all the time. The RigExpert one I just did was a loaner. I had to send it back. It has way more features than the MFJ-223 I'm using in this video, and I would love to have one, but this has an internal battery that charges via usb and is so incredibly small. It's perfect for going portable. It literally fits in your pocket. Doesn't do VHF/UHF though.
Just connect the driven element to the “clickydicky” and it’s all done. Opps, had to cut off a foot and half, then reconnect it back to the clickydicky, now it’s sweet! 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂
Hey Mike that’s a fantastic video anyone’s has the DX commander antenna that’s a good mod. I like the way you show the antenna , Calum does quality work I can understand why you really like the antenna. If I had the space to run the counterpoise in my backyard I think that would be one of the antennas I would put up. Looking forward for next weekend I can’t wait to start hunting for the POTA . I think that’s gonna be a lot of fun. Hey Mike how fun and stay safe. WD5ENH Steve
They are fantastic quality antennas and they perform great. Doesn't take long to set up out in the field either. Next weekend is going to be a blast. Hope to catch you on the air.
I think I have made maybe 4 contacts on 12 meters in the last 6 years. Its so close to CB band I have to take a shower after I use it because I feel so dirty.
Hi Mike, Nice mod there... I see you are also getting into the British lingo as in "more bananas and doingy doing's" but you really got to sort out that word... S.O.L.D.E.R. lol.... never mind all this "sodder" its got the L in.... only kidding of course, Love the channel and all the content... enjoy the extra band you have added... 73's Yoki...
Some things take time. Bananas, doingies, and wigglies are more important lol! soLder just sounds weird. So does the way you pronounce aluminum haha! Thanks for watching. 73
@@hamradiotube Touche.... lol.... nice to see you took it in a light hearted manner.... so many take such things so seriously... gud luck and gud dx Mike... love the vids by the way....
“More Bananas and more Wiggly’s.”
My line of the day for tomorrow.
Awesome video man.
We only use technical terms on K8MRD RADIO STUFF lol!
The fact that the holes on the spreaders are tapped for the screws is genius because it keeps the bolts from falling out and getting lost. I just love your creativity. I am gonna get a Classic+80 as soon as they pop up on DXE. Want to save on that shipping ya know.
May have to try this to add a 6m element. Genius!
Thanks for the video and more bananas. I have had the full-size DX Commander installed up here in WV for about 3 years now and while it needs to come down every 6 months for grass clipping cleaning I have only had to replace one element for 40 Meters and that was due to wind when the antenna fell over. In the kit, Callum supplies extra cable and extra terminals so ongoing maintenance is an absolute breeze. W8BFO (Will) 73s peeps.
Absolutely fantastic antennas and its great that he supplies more than you need to make repairs down the road too.
Nice video Mike,
The K8MRD mod looked Easy-Peasy, I also really liked the beads as wire marker. Short, Sweet and to the point. Well done sir... 🤘😎👍
Yeah buddy. If I can do it, anyone can!
A great add there Mike, I am sure Cal will love that one. 😀
Thanks Gary.
Hey Mike, well done!
Just want to give the hint that adding a wire might de-tune the other bands (slightly) - before you fire up too much, you might want to double check that one as well 😃
Yes that's very possible. Should recheck it to be sure.
It did until it was resonant. I checked several times.
It's all good.
Great video Mike! Did adding that element alter the tuning on the other bands in any way? I have the Expedition and the Classic 80M version. If I add another element to the Classic in this way, maybe 30M, I’ll pretty much be ruler of the electromagnetic spectrum🤟
It did until it was resonant. Now everything is happy again. You should be able to add 30 no problem.
Thanks for the video. I now know more about this antenna than before. It would be a good permanent antenna, but I consider it too much work to put up for portable use.
Nah, this thing is a breeze to set up portable. Takes like 15 minutes. Plus its resonant on so many bands. This one is designed for portable. The DX Commander Classic is designed more as a permanent antenna.
Great video as always, Mike!
Hey thank you so much!!
Awesome job as usual Mike keep me coming 👍
Thanks 👍
Great info about a modification. thanks.
Hi Mike. My new and first DX Expedition is on the way. Where did you get slide on numbers. Great idea. Keep up the great videos. You are an inspiration .
Great job on the mod. One day I will have a DX Commander.
Great job, Mike. You should get a check from Callum for designing the upgrade. ;-)
Lol, well he supplied me with a couple of his antennas so I think thats more than fair.
@@hamradiotube Yeah. That would work. Lol
Yuppp I have used that point for my 60-meter element for more than a year. Works great and had no influence on the other bands.
The best antenna is the antenna that works best for you. However, I don't recommend ground mounted vertical antenna for crowded areas like what is seen in this video or neighborhoods for example and this is why. There is the nearfield, farfield, and freznel zones to which the vertical ground mounted antenna is affected most by the freznel zone. That zone extends out 2 wavelengths from any band you are working. If you have things in the way, like trees, shrubs, houses with electrical wiring, etc.. anything in the way, those objects can and will absorb, reflect signals from ground mounted verticals because the DX or low angles of radiation are most affected. Meaning, at ground level, how much sky can you see at 5 degrees of elevation? 20 Meters and lower frequencies are most affected by the freznel zone on a ground mounted vertical antenna. There is only one solution, and that is to get the antenna off the ground. For decades ground plane vertical antennas were usually always above ground, but over the past few years ground mounted is where hams are erecting their antenna's, without knowing why it used to hardly ever be done this way. Now you know why. 73
I'm really going to blow your mind you can run an element from the base plate up into a tree and run any bands you like. I made my own version of the DX commander I have a 40m element that I strung up in a tree off the base plate as well as the normal bands up the pole. I also find the higher the frequency the less well a vertical works compared to a dipole. For example a 10m dipole I found works better than a 1/4 wave vertical where as a 40m vertical works better than a dipole (in my experience) 73s
Good work Mike!
Thanks!
I love that. But did it change anything on the other bands? I noticed the cut length is not truly what you expect for doing single bands on each element. Seems there is some work across all the wires.
Does this mod change the tuning at all for the other elements?
If I understand the design, it shouldn't. (I'm just an amateur, though. haha) Hopefully someone corrects me if I'm understanding it wrong. The other elements are capacitive at their non wavelengths, and all being connected on the same feed plate already. The element that is driving only oscillates at their specific wavelength/frequency. (Frequency increases inductive reactance, while decreasing capacitive reactance)
It did until it was resonant. All good now.
Sweet! How cool is that! 👍
More bands on your antenna do make you cooler lol!
@@hamradiotube just building the Expedition so will apply this hack. 👍😎
You can replace the plastic tubing on your hose clamp with some heat shrink tubing and it will look a lot cleaner and work just as well.
Ooh, I like where your OCD is going there! Good idea.
Did the same a while ago, with a SOTABEAMS pole and yes, works wonders using heatshrink instead of plastic tubing.
Gonna have to get one of those for the RV!
Yes you should.
Very clever Mike!… 👍👍
Nicely done
thank you
Great video Mike. Where do you get the little dice/little squares for the antenna elements?
Amazon, “numeric beads”
@DX Commander thanks Cal 👍
@@davidj.wilcox6053 thanks David
I got them from amazon. There's a link in the description. Totally stole the idea from Callum.
@@hamradiotube Thanks man!
So for this antenna to work properly you have to use radials? That could be a problem for my space allowed.
Yes it does. The length of the individual wires doesn't matter as much as the total length of all wires combined though. You can have many more shorter wires verses several long wires.
Mike, did you record a measurement for the final element length/fold? I can get close from your notes. Just looking for more data points for my “dossier” of DXC element lengths. Thanks.
Mike keep the videos coming. Thank you for all you do.
KD2ETN
You keep watching, I'll keep making.
I barely had time to finish my first beer.
@@chrisazure1624 Well the good news is you get to start your second one now!
@@hamradiotube Too late. Third.
Brilliant, I wonder what Lord Callum has to say about this. Nice work. Thanks
No you wouldn't. One more band on the classic too.
Lord Callum knows all.
Cal should add this to his next batch of plates !!!
I agree.
There are two kinds if Hams, those that forgot the heat shrink, and those that are about to.
Lol! If that isn’t one of the truest statements I don’t know what is.
How did you cut off a foot and a half when you only had 8 inches folded back?
Mike Where do you get the number beads That is a great idea I was using a label but know that is short lived.
They are these right here: amzn.to/3akgs8T
@@hamradiotube Perfect! on order so I can add them to my wires!
did you change out the SO239 on your DX? I don't like mine it seems too short. Would like to change it out but haven't been able to find something. Thanks
Nope, everything is stock. I think it's pretty perfect the way it is. You could always just make one.
I always forget the heat shrink, always ....
BTW love the number elements, I was gonna use a label maker but those guys will last allot longer.
Yep, me too. I got the numbers idea from a video Callum did. Immediately went online and bought a bunch. There's a link in the description.
I want to go portable with my 991a. Looking for information on what I need. Thanks
KQ4CD Paul
Hmm, thats a long topic but...in a nutshell, A radio, antenna, coax long enough to get to your antenna, a power source like a Bioenno LiFePO4 battery (20AH should do fine), or if you have mains, a power supply. A computer or smart phone to log with (though some use paper). I prefer the HAMRS app: www.hamrs.app Water is always a good thing. Thats kinda it actually. Maybe it's not that long of a topic. I would suggest taking your station out in the yard and setting up. Thats a great way to practice doing portable radio. You can find out what you need and what you can leave behind. Plus, if you forget something, you just have to walk back inside. Make a check list of what you have when your station is operational and bring that. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. You will, and I still do to this day. Hope this helps and please hit me up if you have any more questions.
@@hamradiotube tnxs 73 KQ4CD Paul
I agree with what's been posted, and I would like to add a foldable table, a foldable chair like from Harbor Freight, and some sort of pop up canopy for shade. I usually set up real close to my vehicle so I am not walking too far, however I know K8MRD has sometimes hiked a bit to set up so then he goes as minimal as he can. Whatever you do enjoy the hobby. N3EDO.
Good onya Mike, cheers n 73
thank you
"Doingy," Would that be available at DX or HRO?
I think they might have some trouble importing Doingies from the UK at the moment lol!
Oh no! You've just voided the lifetime warranty! (g)
Haha, not too worried. I know a guy at DXC HQ.
Nice video, thanks. Inquiring minds would like to know: how long are your radials and how many are you using?
Thanks Doc. I'm using 20, 3.5 meter radials as per the instructions. Thats about 11.5' in regular people measurements I think.
Thanks for the quick and cogent reply!
Nicely done Mike!
The next time you have this set up in this same configuration with a 12 m attached, can you also run the SWR meter through all of the other bands and let us know what you see. I am of course subscribed with notifications turned on and thumbs up! 73 W3GUY Ernie
Thank you!♡♡♡
You're welcome 😊
Ok, where did you find those beads with the numbers on them for the elements?
Just look in the description of the video.
Nice. Now you just need to add one for 30M for digital and you'll have everything.
I'm never on digital when I'm portable so not too worried, but I could.
Nice 👍……like finding a diamond 💎 in the gold mine
it sure is
Fantastic Mike, it's the simple things in life that count. 73
it really is isn't it?
The "doingy" a classic .
thats the technical term.
@@hamradiotube Bananas, wigglys and doingy technical terms you are killing me Mike. 73's.....
Hey Mike, bet that DX Commander works a lot better than the MFJ collapsable whip you used in NC 3 or 4 years ago huh? Have you used this antenna from your dad's place down there? Bet it's a nice place for lack of QRM/QRN down there, there's a lot of beautiful places down south -- few of 'em up here too. ;-) 73, Bob
Lol, just a little bit yeah :) I haven't used it at my dads and unfortunately he sold that house. It was really nice operating from there though. Zero noise floor.
Wich analyzer is that ? Maby a video ? Looks so much easier than my vna...
MFJ-223. ruclips.net/video/c9devmWE8Hw/видео.html
@@hamradiotube ordered my mfj223 today now the wait for delivery
Sweet!
thanks
👍✅ Great job Mike❗️ 73. KV5P
Thank you good sir!
I know you did a review on the antenna analizer, but noticed you been using it lately. How do you like it since you've had it a while? Great video too!!
Oh man, I love this analyzer. I use it all the time. The RigExpert one I just did was a loaner. I had to send it back. It has way more features than the MFJ-223 I'm using in this video, and I would love to have one, but this has an internal battery that charges via usb and is so incredibly small. It's perfect for going portable. It literally fits in your pocket. Doesn't do VHF/UHF though.
@@hamradiotube .
How long does it take to set up the commander?
Not long. About 15 minutes. Totally worth it to have a fantastic multi band resonant antenna.
About how many Baofengs did you trim off? LOL
Good question. I would guess about 4
Just connect the driven element to the “clickydicky” and it’s all done. Opps, had to cut off a foot and half, then reconnect it back to the clickydicky, now it’s sweet! 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂
Lol, that's about it!
Have you ever mounted the dxc elevated ?
Nope. Not sure how you would even do that. It's designed to be a ground mounted vertical.
This is perfect idea. Great vid and nice touch w\ numbered beads..
However; t-shirt, Not Good....just saying. Love ya bro.
My t-shirt is awesome.
Another great video. All the best and have a great weekend. JJK N6NRO
Thanks! You too!
NICE!!!!!
Thank you! Cheers!
Yeah, but can it do top band-nanas?
That I haven't gotten on yet. I'm sure it "could" if I had enough space and wire.
B R A V O O O . . .👏👏👏👌
thank you
Wow over 500 likes and zero dislikes. Unbelievable
Oh, I'm sure that will change lol!
i use my dxcommander to hold up my speaker wire dipole
Just one of the many uses indeed.
Why not just drill a hole if you want more elements
Hey Mike that’s a fantastic video anyone’s has the DX commander antenna that’s a good mod. I like the way you show the antenna , Calum does quality work I can understand why you really like the antenna. If I had the space to run the counterpoise in my backyard I think that would be one of the antennas I would put up. Looking forward for next weekend I can’t wait to start hunting for the POTA . I think that’s gonna be a lot of fun. Hey Mike how fun and stay safe.
WD5ENH
Steve
They are fantastic quality antennas and they perform great. Doesn't take long to set up out in the field either. Next weekend is going to be a blast. Hope to catch you on the air.
I think I have made maybe 4 contacts on 12 meters in the last 6 years. Its so close to CB band I have to take a shower after I use it because I feel so dirty.
Well now you tell me! Thats ok. I can put on a 6 meter element if I want.
@@hamradiotube How about a 30m? Don't you get part of 6m from your 40m line?
Six meter antenna? I can't see having a 6 meter vertical antenna essentially sitting on the ground.
Hi Mike, Nice mod there... I see you are also getting into the British lingo as in "more bananas and doingy doing's" but you really got to sort out that word... S.O.L.D.E.R. lol.... never mind all this "sodder" its got the L in.... only kidding of course, Love the channel and all the content... enjoy the extra band you have added... 73's Yoki...
But he got 'Neboola' 100% correct, so anything else is unimportant.
Exactly
Some things take time. Bananas, doingies, and wigglies are more important lol! soLder just sounds weird. So does the way you pronounce aluminum haha! Thanks for watching. 73
@@hamradiotube Touche.... lol.... nice to see you took it in a light hearted manner.... so many take such things so seriously... gud luck and gud dx Mike... love the vids by the way....
Not exactly mind blowing
Well you can't please all the people all the time.
Just checking to see if life is still poo pooing on you, or have things gotten better?
GREAT PRESENTED! GOOD WORK! INTERESTDRIVEN KNOWLEDGE!
73s de Gunnar sm6oer >>\