Gentlemen (and ladies if there are any present)

I have somewhat of a newbie question regarding antenna placement. I've been flying for quite a while now, so you'd think I should know this. Oh well....

Anyway, on all the models that I've flown, the antenna wire was for the most part outside the plane. Off the top of my head, most if not all other models that I've seen the wire has be exposed also. I'm just wondering if there's a big reason for this? If one were to run most of the wire inside the plane, and just have it exit at the rear, would this be a problem? I'm just wondering if it cuts down your range at all? Just curious I guess.

Thanks

- Paul

all mine are inside the plane with no problems

That's good to know. I have a few models that would look better if the antenna were inside the plane.

Most arf's these days have an antenna tube running inside the fuse from the servo tray to the tail. If you don't have one in your planes, go to your LHS and buy a couple and install them. I find that my antennas don't get snagged up as much. Good piece of mind for someone who's always catching the antenna on things and worrying about weather or not the thing has pulled loose or broken the wires, etc.

MPB

Not only are all mine inside...I've started using heli antennas on my airplanes. I outside, they look real nice, and if inside, take up very little room (length). Good luck.

When building planes, I install a tube inside the fuse and run the antenna out the rear as you are suggesting. It has always worked well for me and IMO looks better than those run outside the plane.

DaveB

one important note is to keep the antenna away from metal when you run it through the plane. especially metal pushrods. the push rods act as antennas for noise and metal around the antenna will shield it from radio signals. about at least an inch away is a good rule of thought. the interference though gets worse with how much is in close proximity to the metal. which means running side by side over a long distance is much worse then a quick cross that is then separated. in other words don't run a antenna guide touching the pushrod guide but an inch separation will make things good.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the antenna still needs to be extended to its full length. If you double the antenna back on itself it has the same affect as cutting the antenna length.

Hope this helps

Ken

Yes,for the most part you only have to run antenna outside if there is a proximity of the pushrods.If you use plastic ,flexible pushrods you should have any problems at all.
72 Mhz penetrates wood with no problem.And besides everything you have an 'eye sight ' with the plane.Thats all you need for good reception.Keep away from the metal.