The hidden mag loop antenna

[radiozed]

I've been off the air for awhile, but hope to get back up and running soon.  A couple of months back I was encouraged by an east coast report while running my ugly mag loop antenna at just 40 watts.  I decided to make something a little better, but was still stymied by HOA rules that forbid any sort of visible antennas.  While I know that mag loops can have decent performance on the ground, I also knew I could improve things if I could just get it up in the air just a bit.  But I needed it to be stealth enough that nosy nellies wouldn't ask too many questions.  Enter my version of the "stealth" mag loop:

https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B1Sx8UoqolwlOVJwaVd3MWZVS00

Just under 4' diameter, constructed of 3/4" copper pipe.  Haven't tried it on the air yet but my antenna analyzer likes it just fine.  It's enclosed in a plywood box that will be painted the same color as my house.  I figure I'll mount it 4-5' up on the side of the house (if my wife will let me).  If not, I'll mount it out on a large trellis in the backyard.  In either case it should blend in and not draw too much attention.  If anyone asks what it is I'll just say, "It's a wood box.  You've never seen one?"   

[ChrisSmolinski]

Tell any nosy HOA nazis that it's a birdhouse with an invisible door.

[MDK2]

Could it work in your attic?

[PirateSWL]

I hope something works out for you Zed. I miss trying to listen for you !

[radiozed]

Could it work in your attic?

Unfortunately no.  I have a large two story house and my setup is downstairs.  I'd not only have to chase a couple hundred feet of coax to get up there, but the scuttle hole in to the attic isn't anywhere big enough to get a mag loop through.  Outside and concealed is about the only option I have. 

[Pigmeat]

Put a flashing light on it and tell them it keeps the aliens away. They won't bother you any more.