UPDATE: IceConeFeed v2.1

After many inquiries from the HAM community for updating the IceConeFeed design parameters a new version is now available (purchase here). Key features are optimized helix dimensions to achieve a lower SWR and also reduce the LNB shadow in order to increase reception gain. See below the comparison between the 3.5 turn helix of IceConeFeed…

Hail storm damage

The severe hail storm around the Bari area / Italy on Aug 19 destroyed car windows and Ice Cone Feeds like this one. Should this happen to you, please order a replacement radome or re-print one yourself.  

IceConeFeed v2 review by TechMindsYT

Check out the review of the #IceConeFeed v2 for #QO100 from @TechMindsYT here: Want one? The IceConeFeed v2.1 is available in the shop — fully assembled and tuned for QO100.

IceConeFeed Installation Tips

Some stations have quite tight clearances between the Iceconefeed reflector and the LNB arm. To do a fit check before installation you can use a full scale drawing and quickly make a template (2D printer ;-). Note: there are two templates to choose from, see below, for IceConeFeed v2 and DIY. The v2 version features…

Tors South Norway Rove

Tor (LA9XGA) was on tour DXing from Southern Norway being QRV on various Oscars. His QO100 mobile station is sporting the Ice Cone Feed v2. I took a chance and worked him on QO100 one evening. Images by courtesy of Tor (LA9XGA)

LNB attenuation

By principle the helix antenna will blank out a certain amount of signal as it is mechanically located in front of the receiving element. A geometrical analysis illustrates why and gives a good indication of the attenuation order of magnitude.Assume an opening angle of the LNB of 50 deg. The helix shade from the LNB…

IceConeFeed Thermal Test — 120 W CW

A customer put the IceConeFeed under 120 W CW with a thermal camera. Peak temperature at the feedpoint: 31.6 °C — a ~20 K rise at the worst-case duty cycle.