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How to Build an Antenna Base

If you're an amateur radio hobbyist struggling to extend your transmission range, an outdoor vertical antenna may be an effective option. A vertical antenna should be mounted to a solid antenna base to overcome harsh environmental conditions, such as windstorms and snow. Be sure to check with your XYL before breaking ground -- your spouse or partner may have other ideas for your backyard garden.

Things You'll Need

Metal pipe, 2-inch diameter, 55 inches long
Posthole digger
Gravel, 1/2- to 3/4-inch crushed stone, 150 pounds
Plastic landscape edging, 7 feet long
3-foot level
Shovel
Trash bag

Instructions

- 1
  Determine the location for your antenna. Avoid mounting your antenna near power lines and trees. Dig an 8-inch-wide hole, 36 inches deep, with the posthole digger.
- 2
  Pour gravel into the hole, filling it to a 2-inch depth. Stand the metal pipe in the middle of the hole, wedging it down in the gravel. Vertically level the pipe and fill the hole with gravel. Pack down the gravel with your foot and continue to fill the hole until the gravel is flush with the ground.
- 3
  Dig a 2-foot diameter, 2-inch deep relief ring around the hole. Line the ring with a trash bag and fill the ring flush with gravel. The trash bag will deter weeds.
- 4
  Install landscape edging around the perimeter of the relief hole. This will contain the gravel and maintain a boundary for the lawn mower.
- 5
  Mount your antenna to the metal pipe.

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