How can I tell how much power my antenna can handle? (#702)

Jordan, N7XLD, has an antenna, but he doesn't know its specifactions. Since he aquired it a while ago he doesn't have any form of paperwork to read and find out what it can handle. Is there some way for him to learn how much his antenna can handle, without destroying it?

Edited by Callum Jakeman

Twitter: @dcasler

[npa]

Dave: There are several factors that limit the power handling capabilities of an antenna system. If they are running RG-58, RG-59, RG8X, or poor quality RG-8 coax, that would be a limiting factor. Also, even if it does not have a Balun and just a center connector, the gauge of the wire would be a limiting factor. I had a 5KW rated Balun on a beam antenna. I normally ran legal power while contesting and chasing DX and after about 4 years, the insulation on the leads were baked and burnt looking. Lately a lot of the antenna makers are putting warnings in their ads on their legal limit antennas and state that when running the Digital Modes to limit your power to 300 to 500 watts. I have always made it a practice to use 10 gauge wire on my wire antennas. There are a lot of items that can restrict the power handling capabilities of an antenna system.

[kevinkconohelijeepworld]

If it’s store bought leave it build your own balance open feed line and a hw doublet for 160 and a cheap dentron manual tuner and you’ll get 99% of your 100w out with no losses

[clems]

like a bolt. Tighten it until it strips then back it off half a turn !

[philmaxwell]

Why not just replace the balun with the larger one and not worry?

[gfvt]

A pretty fair analysis, from my cursory look at their products their most popular antennas seem to be off centre fed dipoles with a nominal 300w rating. But they do higher and lower power versions. I would be inclined to email the manufacturer some pictures so they can identify it.

[ericdee]

Hello Dave, thus question may be slightly off subject but, its my understanding that there is an Android app that is an antenna modeling app???. If this isnt true, where do i get the "Antenna modeling app or program???
Thanks for reading in advance!

[donaldsmith]

I am making a HWEF, and windings my own UNUN. I will use 14 gage wire and 2, 240-43. I can do 3, 240-43 if I need to. I just don't want to make it heavier than it needs to be. Someday I may need to do full power. I have not seen what I need for that.

[thomasperina]

Good afternoon sir: Excellent video Dave but I have a stupid question. How does anyone purchase an antenna or for that matter anything without knowing the specifications. Maybe I'm being too critical but I just don't understand the theory of set it up & let's see what happens 🤔. Thank you & 73's TMP from N.J.

[ChipLohman]

Buckmaster is still in business located in Virginia and has a very helpful and responsive help desk.

[furonwarrior]

Found out that my dipole has an element with 8ohms… 😅

[DominicMazoch]

For a pre made or kit antenna, it should be in the instruction manual.

Same for purchased balums and centers.

IE. Read the instructios.

[glenmartin]

Most of the antennas I have used are home brew. No Baluns.
That makes life easier. N0QFT