The HexTenna(TM) by Alpha Antenna(R) is a portable full-sized HF/VHF/UHF antenna system that can be configured as a HF Vertical (with counterpoise), UHF Vertical (without counterpoise), HF/VHF Dipole, and as a VHF/HF Yagi when used with the optional HexTenna(TM) Yagi add-on. This makes it ideal for portable operation, SOTA, POTA, DXpeditions, and emergency communications where rapid band and configuration changes are required.

RF Exposure Notice

In the United States, the FCC has established guidelines for human exposure to RF electromagnetic fields (47 CFR 1.1307(b), 1.1310, 2.1093). It is the responsibility of the owner/operator to ensure compliance with all applicable RF exposure rules and to follow safe operating practices. For further information, consult the ARRL RF exposure resources at http://www.arrl.org/rf-exposure.

Standard HexTenna Deployment

1. Install the included mount on a secure 1 to 1-1/4 inch O.D. mast, or install the hub on the optional HD-Tripod.
2. Screw each telescopic whip into the hub at the locations appropriate for the configuration being deployed (Vertical, Dipole, or Yagi system).
3. If using the HexTenna as a HF Vertical, install the optional counterpoise as required.
4. Attach your coaxial cable to the built-in SO-239 connector on the Alpha Match hub.
5. Use the included measuring tape to set the whip lengths close to the values in the supplied charts for the desired band.
6. Key the transmitter at low power and make final adjustments to the whip lengths until the lowest SWR is achieved.

Yagi Configuration (with Optional HexTenna Yagi Add-On)

1. Install both HexTenna hubs on the supplied boom and mount the boom on the top of the mast or optional HD-Tripod.
2. Install the Yagi Plug on the hub where the reflector elements are fitted.
3. Adjust each driven and reflector element to the approximate lengths shown in the Yagi charts for the operating band, then fine-tune for best SWR and pattern.

Dipole Configuration

The HexTenna can be configured as a HF/VHF dipole using the telescopic elements and, optionally, the 30/40m add-on elements.

• For 30/40m (with optional add-on kit), fully extend the telescopic elements for 40m (or retract to about 7.5 feet for 30m) and clip the wire add-on elements to the tips to form an M-shaped dipole.
• Use the included stake or green insulators to hold the wire elements straight or to tie them off as required.
• Tune by equally retracting each telescopic element until resonance and lowest SWR are achieved.
• For higher bands (20m through 2m), set each dipole element to the approximate lengths in the manual, then fine-tune for best SWR.

Vertical Configuration

When used as a HF Vertical, the HexTenna employs a single telescopic radiator and user-provided counterpoise elements.

• Set the vertical element to the approximate length for the desired band (20m through 10m) as listed in the manual.
• Roll out and deploy four counterpoise wires cut to the approximate lengths given for each band.
• Final tuning is achieved by adjusting the vertical element length and, if necessary, trimming or repositioning the counterpoise wires.

UHF and VHF Vertical Operation

• For 440 MHz and 220 MHz operation, set the vertical element to the approximate length specified in the manual.
• No counterpoise is recommended for these UHF/VHF vertical configurations.

By using the approximate dipole lengths, the HexTenna can also be configured as a Delta Loop (with a user-supplied jumper wire between the dipole tips) or as a multi-antenna Yagi array, using one HexTenna as the driven element and a second as a reflector with approximately 5 percent added length.