[Shinnen]

Hi,
I live in Markham, and have built one of these bowtie antennas, using coat hangers; but I have not added a reflector. Presently I get 20 channels.
I have two questions:
1. Would I get better reception had a constructed the bowties from copper wire?
2. Is the reflector necessary?
Any help is appreciated.
Thanks,
........... john

 

[Red Knave]

1. Would I get better reception had a constructed the bowties from copper wire?

Probably not.

2. Is the reflector necessary?

Not necessary but could improve reception. Usual suggestion is 'try it and see'.

 

[Shinnen]

Thanks Red, I will try it.
.... john

 

[ExDilbert]

A reflector is used to increase signal strength and distance in a single direction. If there are stations from many directions that do not interfere with each other then omitting the reflector may be better option. I suggest generating and posting a RabbitEars report for a better diagnosis.

 

[Shinnen]

Hi ExDilbert,
I've already made the reflector (aluminum foil over thin board) so I think I'll install that and see if that makes any difference first. I seem to get the best reception (20-24 channels) when it's pointed at downtown Toronto. How big a rotation (degrees wise) does it commonly take to make a difference?
Thanks,
..... john

 

[Chiwaukee]

Hi ExDilbert,
I've already made the reflector (aluminum foil over thin board) so I think I'll install that and see if that makes any difference first. I seem to get the best reception (20-24 channels) when it's pointed at downtown Toronto. How big a rotation (degrees wise) does it commonly take to make a difference?
Thanks,
..... john

I don't recommend a solid reflector like you're talking about. Screen type works best just go to the hardware store and get some garden fence. The screen will allow air to flow through and won't give you as much wind load. There's no advantage to using a solid aluminum foil type reflector.

 

[Shinnen]

Hi Chiwaukee,
I've already installed the aluminum one. It's inside, so there's no danger of wind damage. It increased my reception by about 8 stations (26 to 34). Are concerns about wind the only reason you recommend screening?
Thanks,
...... john

 

[Red Knave]

Are concerns about wind the only reason you recommend screening?

You'll find that there is virtually no difference in reception between solid and open reflectors. More important issues are distance from the active elements of the antenna and the sizing of the reflector.
There is a terrific resource originally set up and maintained by a member who I haven't seen post recently (and hope he's still with us) but you may find some good information here --> Albums By holl_ands - ImageEvent

 

[Shinnen]

Hi Red,
"... distance from the active elements of the antenna ..." active elements meaning the bowties?
Thanks for the lead. I'll check it out.
..... john