[Antennas] RE: horizontal vs vertical

[W0OOW]

In reference to:
"Why does a half wave antenna become less efficient by turning it on end
(vertical ve horizontal half wave)
-bob"
I would disagree with the comment that suggested a vertical antenna with no
radial was similar to putting a lightbulb on the end of the coax.

I would suggest that the effeciency of a vertical antenna would be more
related to its length (in wavelengths) and whether or not the antenna was
voltage or current fed.

I have never noticed a 1/2 wave antenna being less effecient than a
horizontal antenna with the exception of the lower angles at higher
frequencies.  The pseudo-Brewster angel effect tends to kill the potential
low angle of vertical antennas using 'normal' ground conductivity.

A horizontal antenna at lower frequencies is not a good low angle radiator
due to its low height in terms of wavelength.  At higher frequencies, it
does not take much height to attain a relative low angle of radiation, so
comparing a vertical antenna to a horizontal antenna at a decent height
might not turn out too well.

Assuming that the vertical antennas in question had their 'feet on the
ground' I would favor horizontal for the higher frequencies and vertical for
the lower fequencies IF low angle (DX) were my goal.

Also, attenuation due to near objects is a consideration.  How many
horizontal trees have you seen?
Good luck :)
Steve