All rights reserved. Powered by
AdultEmpireCash.com
Copyright © 2026 Ravana LLC
The Moxon rectangle (invented by Les Moxon, G6XN) is a two-element parasitic array. Visually, it looks like a squashed rectangle or a bowtie. Electrically, it performs like a 2- or even 3-element Yagi, but with a critical advantage: the elements are folded back toward each other, drastically reducing the overall width.
High-frequency (HF) radio remains one of the most versatile and resilient modes of long-distance wireless communication. HF spans roughly 3–30 MHz and supports skywave propagation via the ionosphere, enabling single-operator stations to reach across continents with modest equipment. However, effective HF operation depends heavily on antenna choice and installation. “HF antennas for all locations” implies a practical, inclusive approach: selecting, adapting, and optimizing antennas so operators in varied environments—urban apartments, suburban lots, small rural properties, portable field sites, and restricted-roof installations—can achieve reliable performance. This essay surveys key HF antenna types, analyzes trade-offs for constrained locations, addresses tuning and matching (including the role of the Moxon rectangle), and offers pragmatic guidance for achieving usable HF performance anywhere.
Antenna fundamentals and practical constraints Antennas convert radio-frequency currents into radiated electromagnetic waves and vice versa. Their effectiveness is determined by length relative to wavelength, radiation pattern, impedance, bandwidth, height above ground, nearby structures, and feedline losses. In HF, wavelengths range from 100 m (3 MHz) to 10 m (30 MHz), making full-size resonant antennas physically large. Most real-world operators cannot deploy full-size half-wave dipoles at ideal heights. Constraints fall into several categories:
Common HF antenna types and suitability by location
The Moxon rectangle: why it matters for many locations The Moxon rectangle is a two-element parasitic directional antenna that trades some peak gain of larger Yagis for compactness, lower weight, and simpler construction. Its rectangular shape and folded tips increase bandwidth and allow slightly shorter element lengths than a straight two-element Yagi. Key advantages for “all locations” scenarios:
Tuning, matching, and multiband strategies Real-world HF installation requires attention to impedance matching, feedline losses, and bandwidth:
Practical installation guidance by location
Noise mitigation and coax/feeder considerations
Safety, grounding, and regulatory concerns
Building a compact Moxon: brief construction notes
Conclusion HF communication is achievable from nearly any location if operators choose antennas suited to their constraints and take care with matching and installation. The Moxon rectangle exemplifies the pragmatic compromise many operators need: compact, directional, and forgiving—well suited for rooftops, small lots, and portable setups. Complemented by inverted-Vs, end-fed wires, verticals with elevated radials, and magnetic loops where space is most constrained, an operator can assemble a toolkit of antennas that cover most HF needs. With thoughtful placement, proper matching, and attention to grounding and noise reduction, reliable HF performance is within reach for the majority of hobbyists and emergency communicators, regardless of site limitations.
Further practical resources
Related search suggestions (Additional relevant search terms you might try: "Moxon antenna dimensions calculator", "magnetic loop HF antenna design", "end-fed half-wave matching transformer", "compact HF antennas rooftop", "portable Moxon build plans")
To find the specific "HF Antennas for All Locations" guide featuring the Moxon design, you are likely looking for the work of L.B. Cebik (W4RNL) Moxon Antenna Project
. The Moxon Rectangle is a popular HF antenna because it provides directional gain and a high front-to-back ratio in a footprint 30% smaller than a standard 2-element Yagi. Key Resources and PDF Guides The Moxon Project : The primary hub for Moxon designs, including the Moxon Rectangle Construction Guide , can be found at MoxonAntennaProject.com
. This site hosts numerous PDF calculators and design models for all HF bands. L.B. Cebik’s Collection : The late L.B. Cebik
wrote extensively on "Moxon Rectangles for All Occasions." His technical papers are the gold standard for understanding the geometry and feedpoint impedance (typically , requiring no matching network). Antenna Programs : For custom builds, the Moxon Calculator
allows you to input your target HF frequency to generate exact wire lengths and spacing. Barrett Communications Why Choose a Moxon for "All Locations"? Compact Footprint
: Its folded-end design makes it ideal for small yards or portable "all location" setups like POTA (Parks on the Air). Directivity
: It offers a very clean pattern with almost no side or back lobes, which helps reduce local noise. Broadband Performance
: Unlike some specialized beams, it maintains a low SWR (typically 1.5:1 or better ) over a wide range, such as 1000 kHz on some bands. Durability
: Because the elements are physically shorter and supported at both ends (forming a rectangle), it is more robust against wind than a traditional Yagi. Quick Design Specs for HF Typical Value ~5.5–6.0 dBi Comparable to a full-sized 2-element Yagi. Front-to-Back Ratio 20–30 dB Exceptional rejection of signals from the rear. Direct coax feed with no tuner needed in many cases. ~70% of a Yagi Fits in restricted spaces or HOA-friendly setups.
For a successful "all location" install, ensure the antenna is mounted at least 1/2 wavelength high
for the target band to optimize the takeoff angle for long-distance (DX) communication. specific wire cutting list for a particular HF band, such as 20m or 10m? EAntenna 8MOX Moxon antenna 8m band - WiMo
Moxon Antenna Overview
The Moxon antenna, also known as the Moxon rectangle or Moxon design, is a type of HF (shortwave) antenna that consists of two parallel elements, typically made of wire or tubing, connected at their ends to form a rectangle. It's a popular antenna design for amateur radio operators and shortwave listeners due to its simplicity, compactness, and relatively good performance.
Advantages and Applications
The Moxon antenna has several advantages:
Considerations for Different Locations
When installing a Moxon antenna, consider the following factors to optimize its performance:
PDF Paper: "The Moxon Antenna" by VK5BRB
A comprehensive paper on Moxon antennas is "The Moxon Antenna" by Brian, VK5BRB (now VK5BQC). The paper covers the history, design, and performance of Moxon antennas, including practical tips for construction and installation.
You can find the PDF paper on various online repositories or websites, such as:
Other Resources
Additional resources on HF antennas, including Moxon designs, can be found on websites like:
The Moxon antenna, also known as the Moxon Rectangle, is a compact, two-element directional antenna renowned for its exceptional front-to-back ratio and simple construction. Originally detailed in Les Moxon's (G6XN) seminal work, "HF Antennas for All Locations," this design remains a favorite for amateur radio operators facing space constraints or requiring portable solutions. 1. Understanding the Moxon Design
The Moxon is a specialized version of the Yagi-Uda antenna, consisting of a driven element and a single parasitic reflector. Its unique rectangular shape is achieved by folding the tips of both elements toward each other.
Folded Elements: The folded ends reduce the antenna's width to approximately 70% of a standard two-element Yagi.
Air Gap: A critical air gap between the tips of the driven element and the reflector provides the coupling necessary for its distinctive radiation pattern.
No Impedance Matching: Most Moxon designs are inherently 50-ohm antennas, allowing for a direct connection to coaxial cable without complex baluns or matching networks. 2. Key Performance Advantages
Despite its smaller footprint, the Moxon often outperforms larger antennas in specific environments: Moxon Antenna Array Design and Pattern Synthesis Technique
The primary resource for " HF Antennas for All Locations " is the seminal book by Les A. Moxon (G6XN)
, first published in 1982 by the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB). This work introduced what is now known as the Moxon Rectangle, a compact, directional HF antenna that has become a staple for amateur radio operators in space-constrained or portable environments. The Evolution of the Moxon Rectangle
The Moxon antenna evolved from the VK2ABQ square. Les Moxon discovered that a rectangular shape significantly improved gain and that the spacing between the ends of the folded elements was critical for optimal performance.
Design Philosophy: It is essentially a 2-element Yagi with the ends of the driven element and reflector bent toward each other.
Physical Footprint: Due to the folded ends, the antenna's width is approximately 70% of a standard dipole. Key Performance Characteristics
The Moxon Rectangle is favored for its balance of simplicity and high-end performance metrics:
HF Antennas for All Locations : L. A. Moxon - Internet Archive
The reference to HF Antennas for All Locations refers to the classic text by L.A. Moxon (G6XN)
, which is highly regarded for its focus on practical antenna solutions for constrained environments, such as typical backyards. While Les Moxon is the namesake of the popular Moxon Rectangle hf antennas for all locations moxon pdf
, the book itself is a broad exploration of HF antenna theory and design rather than a dedicated manual for that specific antenna. Report Overview: HF Antennas for All Locations Author & Legacy
: Written by Les Moxon, G6XN, a former radar and communications engineer. The book is considered a "must-have" for experimenters, focusing on achieving high performance without requiring massive space or complex mathematics. Key Content Practical Focus
: Designed for radio amateurs and SWL hobbyists who need effective antennas in "all locations," particularly restricted urban or suburban sites. Theory over Recipes : Reviewers from
note that it is not a "cookbook" of measurements but a guide to understanding
antennas work, requiring the reader to calculate dimensions for their specific frequency. The Moxon Design
: Though the "Moxon Rectangle" is synonymous with his name, only a small portion of the book resembles this specific design; however, his principles of rectangular shaping and critical end-spacing are foundational to its high front-to-back ratio and gain. Digital Availability
The full 1982 edition is available for digital borrowing or viewing on the Internet Archive
A searchable PDF summary focusing on new approaches and insights can be found on The Moxon Rectangle Antenna
For users specifically looking for the "Moxon" antenna mentioned in the title, here are its defining characteristics as described in technical reviews: HF Antennas for All Locations Reviews & Ratings - Amazon.in
The classic book HF Antennas for All Locations by Les Moxon (G6XN) is a seminal work for amateur radio enthusiasts, particularly those facing space constraints or difficult environments. Moxon is widely recognized for his expertise in designing effective antennas that prioritize performance even in restricted locations. 0x9900.com Moxon Rectangle Antenna
While Les Moxon wrote extensively about various designs, he is most famously associated with the Moxon Rectangle , a compact, directional two-element beam antenna. Albury Wodonga Amateur Radio Club Design Characteristics
: It consists of two folded elements—a driven element and a reflector—with a distinct air gap between their ends. Performance : It offers a high front-to-back (F/B) ratio
and gain comparable to a 2-element Yagi, but in a significantly smaller footprint. : It typically features a feed-point impedance close to , making it easy to match with standard coaxial cable.
: The design is relatively broadband, often achieving an SWR of 1.5:1 or better over a 1000 kHz range on certain bands. Accessing the Book and Technical Guides
If you are looking for digital versions or practical construction data, several resources are available: A 20 Meter Moxon Antenna - 0x9900
HF Antennas for All Locations by L.A. Moxon (1982) is a definitive guide on constructing high-performance, space-efficient antennas for amateur radio, particularly popularizing the 2-element "Moxon Rectangle" design. The book provides practical techniques for optimizing HF performance in limited spaces by focusing on antennas with high front-to-back ratios and direct 50-ohm feeds. View the original text at Internet Archive
HF Antennas for All Locations : L. A. Moxon - Internet Archive
The Moxon Rectangle, popularized by Les Moxon (G6XN) in his seminal book HF Antennas for All Locations, is a compact, two-element directional antenna favored for its high performance-to-size ratio. Core Design Features
Rectangular Geometry: Unlike a standard straight-element Yagi, the Moxon folds the ends of the driven element and reflector toward each other.
Space-Efficient: The folded ends reduce the antenna's width to approximately 70% of a standard two-element Yagi, making it ideal for restricted spaces.
Direct Feed: It typically presents a near-perfect 50-ohm impedance, allowing it to be fed directly with coaxial cable without complex matching networks like baluns or gamma matches.
Critical Gap: The spacing between the ends of the driven element and the reflector (the "gap") is the most critical dimension for achieving its unique performance characteristics. Performance Benefits
Exceptional Front-to-Back (F/B) Ratio: The Moxon is renowned for its high F/B ratio (often exceeding 30-40 dB), which effectively rejects unwanted signals from the rear.
Broad Forward Beam: It offers a wide main lobe (often over 100 degrees), making it more forgiving to aim than a narrow-beam Yagi.
Low Angle of Radiation: When mounted correctly, it provides the low radiation angle necessary for long-distance (DX) communication.
Wide SWR Bandwidth: Especially when constructed with tubing, it maintains a low Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) across a broad frequency range. Common Construction Materials (PDF) Design and Development of UHF Moxon Antenna
HF Antennas for All Locations: A Comprehensive Guide to Moxon Antennas (PDF)
Introduction
High-frequency (HF) antennas are a crucial component of any amateur radio or shortwave communication setup. With the increasing popularity of digital modes and global communication, having a reliable and efficient HF antenna system is essential. One popular design that has gained widespread acceptance is the Moxon antenna, named after its inventor, Les Moxon (G3PPT). This essay provides an in-depth look at HF antennas, specifically Moxon antennas, and their suitability for various locations.
What is a Moxon Antenna?
A Moxon antenna is a type of beam antenna that consists of two parallel elements, typically made of wire or tubing, fed in the center. The design is characterized by its compact size, simplicity, and excellent performance. The Moxon antenna is a form of a directional antenna, which concentrates the radiated energy in a specific direction, increasing the signal strength and reducing interference.
Advantages of Moxon Antennas
Moxon antennas offer several advantages that make them an attractive choice for HF communication:
Considerations for Different Locations
When choosing an HF antenna, it's essential to consider the specific location and environment. Moxon antennas can be used in various locations, but some factors need to be taken into account:
Design and Construction
The design and construction of a Moxon antenna are relatively straightforward. The antenna consists of two parallel elements, typically 1/4 wavelength long, fed in the center. The elements can be made of wire or tubing, and the antenna can be mounted on a mast or a self-supporting structure.
Moxon Antenna Design Parameters
To design a Moxon antenna, the following parameters need to be considered:
Conclusion
In conclusion, Moxon antennas are a popular and effective choice for HF communication in various locations. Their compact size, simplicity, and good directivity make them an attractive option for amateur radio operators and shortwave enthusiasts. By considering the specific location and environment, and designing and constructing the antenna with care, Moxon antennas can provide reliable and efficient HF communication.
References
PDF Resources
For those interested in a more detailed and visual guide, there are several PDF resources available online, including:
These resources provide a comprehensive guide to designing, constructing, and installing Moxon antennas for HF communication in various locations.
HF Antennas for All Locations , written by the late Les Moxon (G6XN), is widely considered a cornerstone of amateur radio literature. While many associate the name with the popular Moxon Rectangle antenna, the book is actually a comprehensive guide to practical antenna theory and design tailored for typical backyard environments. Key Takeaways from the Book
Practical Focus: Moxon focuses on antennas that can realistically be built and installed in standard residential areas, emphasizing wire antennas as low-cost solutions.
Theory Over Math: Readers praise the book for providing a deep understanding of antenna "mechanics" without overwhelming them with complex calculus.
Broad Scope: Despite the author's famous invention, the book covers a vast range of HF types, including beams, verticals, and even tuned counterpoises. Community Perspectives The Moxon rectangle (invented by Les Moxon, G6XN)
Readers often highlight that the book requires a thorough "cover-to-cover" study rather than being a quick-reference guide.
“I find this book superior to even the ARRL Antenna Handbook for building understanding.” Amazon UK
“It is not a book of Moxon antennas. In fact, only one example even remotely resembles the Moxon design.” Amazon UK Performance of Moxon Designs
For those specifically interested in the Moxon Rectangle mentioned in the text, community testing often reveals:
High Front-to-Back Ratio: It is highly effective at nulling out interference from behind the antenna.
Compact Size: It offers roughly 70% of the length of a standard 2-element Yagi, making it easier to mount and rotate.
Wide Bandwidth: It typically maintains a low SWR across a broader range of frequencies than similar designs. Digital Access
The book is available in several formats for those seeking a "pdf" or digital version:
Internet Archive: A digital version is available for borrowing or viewing at the Internet Archive.
Scribd: Excerpts and related documents can be found on Scribd.
Physical Copies: New and used copies are often available through Amazon or eBay.
Are you planning to build a specific antenna from the book, or Hf Antennas for All Locations: L.A. Moxon - Amazon.com
The Moxon Rectangle: Principles and Applications for HF Communications
This paper explores the design and practical application of the Moxon Rectangle, a two-element parasitic array originally developed by Les Moxon (G6XN). Characterized by its unique folded-end geometry, the Moxon antenna offers a compact footprint approximately 70% of the length of a standard dipole while maintaining high front-to-back ratios and a nearly 50-ohm feedpoint impedance. This study synthesizes the technical foundations laid out in Moxon's seminal work, HF Antennas for All Locations, and examines modern implementations for portable and fixed HF stations. 1. Introduction
High-frequency (HF) antenna design often involves a trade-off between gain, size, and bandwidth. The Moxon Rectangle addresses these constraints by utilizing a "rectangle" of wire or tubing, where both the driven element and the reflector have ends folded toward each other. This configuration provides directional properties comparable to a two-element Yagi but in a significantly smaller physical area, making it ideal for "all locations," including space-restricted urban environments and portable field operations. 2. Design Principles and Geometry
The Moxon antenna consists of two primary parts: a driven element (slightly less than half the rectangle) and a reflector (slightly more than half).
Folded Elements: By folding the ends, the antenna's overall width is reduced. The critical factor is the air gap between the tips of the driven element and the reflector; this gap controls the capacitive coupling that defines the antenna’s performance.
Dimensions: Standard designs typically yield a feedpoint impedance close to 50 ohms, often eliminating the need for complex matching networks.
Polarization: The antenna can be oriented horizontally for general DX or vertically for low-angle radiation without the need for extensive radial systems. Moxon antenna designer
HF Antennas for All Locations by Leslie "Les" Moxon (G6XN) is widely considered a foundational classic in the amateur radio community. First published in 1982, the book bridges the gap between dense theoretical physics and the messy reality of setting up antennas in restrictive environments like small backyards or urban locations. Core Content & Themes
Practical Problem Solving: Unlike academic textbooks, Moxon focuses on "real-world" constraints. He addresses issues like nearby obstacles, poor ground conductivity, and limited space.
Theory Without Overload: Reviewers from Amazon UK and Amazon.de highlight that Moxon uses simple mathematics to illuminate concepts rather than overwhelm the reader.
Beyond the "Moxon Rectangle": While Moxon is famous for the antenna that bears his name, this is not a book solely about the Moxon antenna. It covers a vast range of wire antennas, beams, and tuned counterpoises.
Terrain Effects: One of the book's most cited strengths is its deep dive into how local terrain influences HF signals, a topic often glossed over in other manuals. Pros and Cons Pros:
Authoritative: Written by a WWII radar specialist and communications engineer with deep technical mastery.
Broad Appeal: Helpful for both beginners looking for simple wire designs and experienced hams interested in gain and directivity.
Visual: Rich with sketches, examples, and charts to clarify complex antenna behaviors. Cons:
Non-Linear Structure: Some readers find the practical material scattered across different chapters, requiring a full cover-to-cover read to find specific building instructions.
Style: Described by some as a "challenging read" because it expects the reader to engage deeply with the logic rather than just providing "cook-book" recipes. Recommendation
This book is often recommended over the ARRL Antenna Book for those who want a deeper conceptual understanding of why certain antennas work in specific spots. It is a "must-have" for any radio enthusiast who likes to experiment or build their own gear.
Moxon Rectangle is widely regarded as one of the most efficient "small" antennas for HF (High Frequency) communication, especially for radio amateurs with limited space. This design was famously popularized by Les Moxon, G6XN, in his definitive book, HF Antennas for All Locations
, which provides a comprehensive guide for building high-performance antennas in less-than-ideal environments. Internet Archive Why the Moxon Rectangle?
The Moxon is essentially a two-element Yagi antenna with its ends folded inward. This simple modification offers several key advantages:
HF Antennas for All Locations : L. A. Moxon - Internet Archive 21 Mar 2023 —
HF Antennas for All Locations : L. A. Moxon : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. Internet Archive DIY 6 Meter Moxon Antenna: Boost Your Summer VHF Fun! 6 Jun 2024 —
"HF Antennas for All Locations," authored by Les Moxon (G6XN), is a cornerstone of amateur radio literature. First published in 1982 by the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB), it remains a primary reference for operators seeking efficient antenna solutions in restricted environments. Overview of the Moxon Antenna
The Moxon antenna, or "Moxon Rectangle," is a compact, two-element directional beam. Its design effectively shrinks a standard 2-element Yagi to approximately 75% of its original size by folding the element ends inward. Building a 10 Meter MOXON Antenna - Easily!
The story of the Moxon antenna is fundamentally a tale of practical engineering meeting the constraints of the "backyard" environment. Centered on the work of Les Moxon (G6XN)
, a World War II radar developer and communications engineer, the narrative explores how radio amateurs can achieve high-performance results in limited spaces. The Genesis: Les Moxon and G6XN
The antenna's legacy is rooted in Les Moxon’s seminal book, " HF Antennas for All Locations
," first published by the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) in 1982.
The Problem: Standard beam antennas (like Yagis) were often too large for suburban lots and required complex matching networks to work with standard 50-ohm coaxial cable. The Inspiration: Moxon refined concepts from Fred Caton (VK2ABQ)
, who had experimented with square-shaped antennas in the 1970s.
The "Moxon Rectangle": While Moxon himself primarily wrote about the VK2ABQ antenna and wire-beam variations, his refinements led to what we now call the "Moxon Rectangle"—a two-element parasitic array with ends folded toward each other. Technical Breakthroughs
The Moxon design is celebrated for solving three major hurdles for HF operators: The Moxon Rectangle
Title: The Backyard Billion-Mile Beam
Leo was frustrated. He lived in a classic "deed-restricted disaster": a rental townhouse with no attic, a tiny patio, and a homeowners' association that banned anything taller than a tomato stake.
For six months, he fought with a ham stick. He tried an end-fed half-wave thrown into a maple tree. Nothing worked. On 20 meters, he was a whisper in a hurricane. "Sorry, Leo, you're down in the noise," became the hated refrain.
One rainy Tuesday, he stumbled upon an old QST article scanned into a PDF. The title read: "The Moxon Rectangle for the Space-Limited Operator." Common HF antenna types and suitability by location
He almost scrolled past. The word "rectangle" sounded boring. But the subtitle hooked him: "Two elements. 3 dB gain. 20 dB front-to-back. Fits on a painter's pole."
He opened the PDF. It wasn't like the thick antenna books he owned. This was a survival guide for the desperate.
The PDF explained the magic: The Moxon wasn't a Yagi. It was a folded, bent dipole that tricked the radio waves into thinking the antenna was twice as big as it really was. No massive booms. No giant rotators. Just two wires bent into a C-shape, spaced less than a foot apart for 10 meters.
Leo found the "Moxon Generators" online—free software that spat out exact cutting lengths. You typed in the frequency (say, 14.150 MHz), and it gave you inches: A, B, C, D.
The Build (The "Porch Session")
That Saturday, he bought 50 feet of 14-gauge house wire, a cheap 4:1 balun, and two fiberglass driveway markers for $8.
He followed the PDF’s sacred rule: "Square corners matter. Use a cardboard template."
By 3 PM, he had a floppy diamond shape hanging from a telescoping fishing pole tied to his deck railing. It looked ridiculous. It looked like a broken clothes hanger. But according to the PDF’s SWR charts, it was a laser.
The Test
That evening, a rare 10-meter opening to Japan appeared. Leo’s usual antenna would have heard static.
He pointed his "fishing pole Moxon" east by using a cheap compass app. He called "CQ DX."
A voice punched back. "Whiskey-Seven-Leo, you are 5-9 plus! Where is the beam?"
Leo laughed. "It’s a bent wire on a stick, Tokyo."
"Impossible," the voice replied. "You have no noise. You sound like a broadcast station."
For the next hour, Leo worked Japan, New Zealand, and Brazil. The PDF had promised a 20 dB front-to-back ratio—meaning he couldn't hear the neighbor's plasma TV or the HOA chairman's leaf blower behind him. It delivered.
Why the PDF Matters
That night, Leo printed the PDF, laminated the two pages, and hung them in his shack. The title read: "HF Antennas for All Locations: The Moxon."
In tiny text at the bottom, the author had written a note: "If you have a wall, a window, or a will—you have a place for a Moxon."
Leo finally understood. You don't need 100 feet of tower and an acre of land. You need the right geometry. The Moxon rectangle is the guerrilla fighter of HF antennas: small, stealthy, and shockingly fierce.
The End.
If you want the actual PDF: Search for “Moxon Rectangle Project” by L. B. Cebik (W4RNL) or use the free “MoxonGen” software. Most ham radio sites host the original 2-page build guide.
Popularized by Les Moxon (G6XN) in his book HF Antennas for All Locations, the Moxon antenna is a compact, two-element rectangle designed for high performance in restricted spaces, providing roughly 70% of the footprint of a standard dipole. Known for high front-to-back ratios and a 50-ohm match, this design is ideal for portable, SOTA/POTA, or limited-space HF operations. View the original text at Internet Archive.
HF Antennas for All Locations : L. A. Moxon - Internet Archive
HF Antennas for All Locations: A Comprehensive Guide to Moxon Antennas
Introduction
High-frequency (HF) antennas are a crucial component for any amateur radio or communication setup. With the increasing demand for reliable and efficient communication, HF antennas have become a popular choice for many applications. One type of HF antenna that has gained significant attention is the Moxon antenna. In this article, we will explore the design, benefits, and applications of Moxon antennas, as well as provide a comprehensive guide for building and optimizing these antennas for various locations.
What is a Moxon Antenna?
A Moxon antenna, also known as a Moxon rectangle or Moxon doublet, is a type of HF antenna that consists of two parallel dipoles connected at their ends. The antenna was invented by G3PAS (Les Moxon) in the 1950s and has since become a popular choice for HF communication. The Moxon antenna is known for its compact design, high gain, and directional radiation pattern.
Benefits of Moxon Antennas
Moxon antennas offer several benefits, including:
Design and Construction
The design of a Moxon antenna is relatively straightforward. The antenna consists of two parallel dipoles, each with a length of around 0.25 wavelengths. The dipoles are connected at their ends, and the antenna is fed at the center of one of the dipoles. The Moxon antenna can be built using a variety of materials, including wire, tubing, or even printed circuit boards.
Optimizing Moxon Antennas for Different Locations
To optimize a Moxon antenna for different locations, several factors need to be considered, including:
Moxon Antenna Designs for Different Locations
Several Moxon antenna designs can be used for different locations, including:
Conclusion
Moxon antennas are a popular choice for HF communication due to their compact design, high gain, and directional radiation pattern. By understanding the design and benefits of Moxon antennas, as well as optimizing them for specific locations, users can build and use these antennas for a variety of applications.
PDF Resources
For those interested in building and optimizing Moxon antennas, several PDF resources are available online, including:
These resources provide detailed information on Moxon antenna design, construction, and optimization, and can be used as a starting point for building and using these antennas.
To convince you that the Moxon truly belongs in every HF operator’s arsenal, here is a quick performance matrix (for a 20m antenna at 25 feet height):
| Antenna Type | Gain (dBi) | F/B Ratio | Width | Noise Immunity | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 1/4λ Vertical | 0 | 0 dB | Very small | Poor (high noise) | | Half-Wave Dipole | 2.15 | 0 dB | 33 ft | Fair | | 2-Element Yagi | 6 | 15 dB | 18 ft (boom) | Good | | 3-Element Yagi | 7.5 | 20 dB | 24 ft (boom) | Excellent | | Moxon Rectangle | 5.5 | 28 dB | 13 ft (boom) | Excellent |
The Verdict: The Moxon yields 91% of a 2-element Yagi’s gain but with superior front-to-back in half the space. For crowded bands, the F/B ratio is more important than 1 dB of gain.
What should you build your Moxon from? That depends on your “location” from the keyword phrase.
The reason so many operators search for a "hf antennas for all locations moxon pdf" is because of the "Multi-Moxon" concept. With a simple relay box at the center, you can change the feed point to operate on two different bands.
For example:
A better approach for "all locations" is to build a single-band Moxon for your favorite band (usually 20m, 17m, or 15m) and use a tuner for other bands. But the Moxon is so efficient that many operators build three separate small Moxons (10m, 15m, 20m) on a single cross-boom. This is a "Moxon array" and it fits in the same space as a single triband Yagi.
Even in a "good" location, a Moxon will be slightly detuned by nearby metal or wet wood. Here is the 30-minute tuning process from the PDF manuals:
You cannot guess dimensions. The Moxon rectangle is precise. A 1% error in spacing destroys the front-to-back ratio.
All rights reserved. Powered by
AdultEmpireCash.com
Copyright © 2026 Ravana LLC