ANTENNAS
Aug 01, 2020
4 minutes
BY KENT BRITAIN, WA5VJB
Let me start by saying that the quarter-wave vertical is a horrible antenna that can’t talk much farther than you can throw your transmitter!
OK, now that I have your attention … a quarter-wave vertical over a ground plane is a good antenna with a long history of excellent performance.
The difference is that ground plane. A proper ground plane needs to be about a half-wavelength across and in , we have a ¼-wave 2-meter vertical with a good ground plane, in this case the roof of a van. Yet it is amazing how many hams will call that a ground plane. Wishful thinking!
You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.
Start your free 30 days