Thread: Target Camera Revisited

Originally Posted by Puffin

Further update: the supplied "rubber duck" antennas (as pictured in the earlier photo) at each end will give a video link that runs reliably over 200-300m. For 1-2km where having a video link starts to add real value, then some sort of gain antenna is needed. It is likely that there only needs to be a higher gain antenna at one end, though this will depend on how much gain the antenna is providing. I'd recommend leaving the omni-directional rubber duck at the camera/transmitter end, then the directional antenna can be adjusted easily when back at the shooting position for best picture quality.

I still think patch antennas should be a good off-the-shelf choice, just not any of the ones that look like the items referred to in the previous post. It might pay to buy in a pair just to be certain of reaching the required distance.
I did have a play myself and tried something different, ending up building a 19-element yagi. Rock-solid picture over 1km with the transmitter backed off to just 50 milliwatts

Attachment 88450

Attachment 88451

@Puffin

Most beautiful Yagi I've seen! Thanks for adding the match to show the size.

NB, at higher frequencies, RF runs primarily at the surface of copper elements, so surface oxidation can become an issue over time. I'd suggest complete the Yagi by polishing the copper and doing an overspray/brush with protective topcoat.

Would you be happy posting an image of the schematics for your Yagi?