PackTenna EFHW2010 End Fed Half Wave Wire Antennas

PackTenna EFHW2010 End Fed Half Wave Wire Antennas are Compact, lightweight trail-ready portable HF antenna systems optimized for the 20m and 10m bands, with optional 40m support via an add-on wire element. Designed for field use like POTA, SOTA, and backpacking, this antenna system comes with an integrated wire winder, matching transformer, and antenna wire into a single rugged unit that won’t take up a lot of space in a backpack.

The EFHW2010 antenna system uses a 50:1 matching transformer to convert the high impedance (3,000–5,000 ohms) of a half-wave wire to 50 ohms, eliminating the need for a tuner on resonant bands. The 32.9 ft. 26AWG copper-clad steel wire features a durable, strong low-bulk jacket. Additional connection points allow for counterpoise and multiband configurations using a loading coil and extended wire.

Key Features

- Integrated 50:1 Matching Transformer: Enables direct connection to radios without a tuner.

- Modular Multiband Capability: Supports 20m/10m natively; expandable to 40m with optional coil and wire.

- Field-Optimized Design: Lightweight, compact, and includes mounting and strain relief options for rapid deployment.

Using an In-Line Choke - At low power levels (up to 10 watts), a counterpoise is usually not required. However, adding one can improve matching and reduce common mode currents on the coax shield.

QRP (≤10W): Choke typically not needed

High Power (50–100W): Choke strongly recommended

Mid Power (5–50W): Choke may be beneficial depending on frequency, nearby objects, and equipment sensitivity

Mounting and Support

The PackTenna board includes:

• Wire retention holes to prevent unraveling during transport

• Mounting holes for paracord or bungee cord

• Banana jacks for connecting wire elements, ground radials, or counterpoise

• S-clip for strain relief and easy wire length adjustment

The plastic S-clip at the wire’s end allows secure threading and trimming and can also be repurposed for tasks like guy line tensioning.

Additional Features and Specifications:

• Bands Supported: 20m, 10m (native); 40m (with optional add-on)

• Power Handling: 100W SSB/CW, 50W Digital (in-line choke recommended above 10W)

• Antenna Wire Length: 32.9 ft.

• Antenna Wire Type: 26AWG copper-clad steel. with silky jacket

• Transformer Ratio: 50:1

• Feedpoint Impedance: 50-ohm

• Connection Points: Banana jacks for wire elements and counterpoise

• Mounting Options: Mounting holes for paracord or bungee cord; S-clip provides strain relief and allows easy wire length adjustment