80M vertical

[Edward A. Dauer]

Thanks, Jim.  I will get into your tutorials as I continue to absorb and learn from this discussion.

A number of people responded, both on the reflector and directly, with observations similar to yours in at least one important respect – namely, the quality of the ground really matters to the performance of a vertical.  That factor alone may stop the vertical inquiry in its tracks.  My operating QTH is at 8,600 feet ASL, atop a small mountain ridge dominated by decomposed granite – about the least conductive soil there is.  The altitude matters because the relative humidity there is very low, the ground vegetation is sparse and so the organic soil is too, and there is no surface water at that elevation save for the snow which as often sublimates away as melts.  In other words, very dry gravel in at least the near field and for much of the land surrounding.   Ah, what I would give to have an ocean nearby again.

Given those conditions, the suggestions seem to be two:  Forget it and put the Vee back up; or do the vertical with a capacity hat and elevated radials.  The latter is possible, as the property has enough space and pine and fir trees despite the harsh growing conditions.   Elevated radials would have to be at least 10 feet high to avoid strangling the deer, not to mention neighbors passing through on their horses. That presents the question of how to get the vertical component of the vertical as long as possible if its base is already ten feet up.   For reasons of domestic tranquility the house itself cannot be an antenna mount.  When I have that construction question solved the discussions about top loading and polarization will be important.

I want also to say thanks to the dozen or so people who offered their knowledge and counsel.  This group is, as always, an extraordinary resource of resourceful friends.

KN1CBR

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