Even though I have a Butternut vertical in the antenna arsenal, this .pdf file from SteppIR, is one of THE best articles about radials that I have ever read. It's in "plain ol' English" and doesn't require you to have a Doctorate in RF Theory to understand it. Just thought I would share!
http://www.steppir.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Radial-Systems-for-Verticals-Rev2.1.pdf
I currently have about 50 radials under my Butternut. Looks like I could stand to add some more next Summer - although I'm currently close to the point of "no extra benefit". Looks like with about 25 more, I can get a bit closer to that 90% efficient point. And "next time" (if there ever is one), I will seriously consider NOT ground mounting my next vertical.
72 de Larry W2LJ
QRP - When you care to send the very least!
The best vertical I have ever used had one elevated radial per band. It was a full size fan vertical on 10,20,and 40.
ReplyDeleteThe radials were up 10 ft.
72 de WD5DHK
A must read for hams, thank you Larry for sharing with us.
ReplyDelete73
Thanks for sharing the URL. Great information!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the link to this, a very interesting read and as I am currently working on improving the vertical perfect timing too. I am most tempted to mount the vertical higher up now with the chance of improved performance.
ReplyDeleteExcellent article. What happens when they come to dig up the bodies hihi
ReplyDelete