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To improve reception of your Eastern Suburbs Community radio station, EASTERN FM, here is an easy to make antenna that is tuned exactly to 98.1 Mhz. As Eastern FM is right in the centre of the FM band, it will improve reception from all FM stations.
It is made from ordinary flat balck or clear balanced 300ohm ribbon. Cut a 1.27 metre length, bare the wires at each end and twist them together. Trim them back to make the length 1254 mm. Fold in half (to find centre) and cut one wire (see diagram). Cut another length of ribbon long enough to reach the radio and connect to the antenna as shown. At the radio, one end goes to the antenna socket (or pull up antenna), the other to radio earth (outside of any socket). A TV type 300-75 ohm balun connected at the radio end will give better results again.
Attach the antenna to a wall or post vertically with drawing pins. The lead to the radio should run at right angles (horizontal) for about 60 cm before bringing it down the wall.
If you prefer to run co-axial cable from the antenna, simply install a 300-75 ohm balun at the centre and use 75 ohm N co-axial down to the radio. Because the antenna is vertical and therefore omni-directional there is no need to orient it toward the station.
For longevity the joins and ends should be soldered and covered with tape if used outside. This antenna will improve reception of all FM stations. Mount it as high as possible. If you have any enquiries, please ring Eastern FM on 9722 9981.
If the antenna is to be used outside, black ribbon will last longer, due ot its inbuilt UV protection.
Happy listening from all at Eastern FM, your local information and entertainment centre in the Outer East.
