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How to Make a Redirecting GPS Antenna

Locating a GPS satellite with a receiver unit requires the use of an antenna. Most GPS receivers use an antenna that is built into the unit. However, this built-in antenna may be insufficient as any obstructions such as trees and poor weather can impede the signal. To increase the chances of receiving a signal from a satellite, you can build your own GPS antenna.

Things You'll Need

Brass or tin sheet
Felt-tip marker
Tin snips
copper wire
8-foot coax cable
BNC connector
1/4-inch glass epoxy circuit board
Hobby knife
Model glue
4-inch plastic container

Instructions

- 1
  Draw a 4-inch diameter circle on the brass or tin sheet with a felt-tip marker. Cut out the circle with the tin snips. Mark the center of the cut metal.
- 2
  Measure a 4-inch length of thecopper wire with the ruler. Cut the wire to this length. Cut a second 4-inch length of thecopper wire. Bend each piece to make a 90-degree angle and set aside.
- 3
  Attach the BNC connector to one end of the 8-foot length of coax cable.
- 4
  Measure and cut two 2-inch lengths from the 1/4-inch circuit board. Cut the copper foil from one of the 2-inch lengths with the hobby knife. Glue the two pieces together with the copper side facing out with the model glue. Solder the glass epoxy post to the center of the metal circle.
- 5
  Cut a hole into the side of the 4-inch container that is the size of the coax cable. Insert the coax into the hole and solder it to the glass epoxy.
- 6
  Solder the two 90-degree cut pieces from Step 2 to the top of the glass epoxy post. Place the metal plate into the lid of the 4-inch plastic container.
- 7
  Place the bottom of the 4-inch container on the lid. Plug the end of the coax cable into the receiver of your GPS unit.

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