[Antennas] Hy-Power Fan Dipoles

[Buck - N4PGW]

> -----Original Message-----
> Now, I know the bandwidth on 160 would be small due to the loading
> required for a short dipole but figure my Tentec 238B tuner would allow me
> to cover the band.  What I would like to know is if anyone on the list has
> used one of these and what kind of results you achieved with it?  If not
> this antenna, has anyone used a loaded multiband antenna including 160
> which might be no longer than say 160 or 170 feet which might do as well
> for me?
> 
> Kevin :)
> Amateur Radio:  K7RX
> Navy Marine Corps MARS:  NNN0SHS

I haven't used this configuration, but I am considering something very
similar.  Determine the maximum length you have available for the antenna (I
am assuming a dipole) and create a linear loaded dipole that fits that spot.
For 160, you need 260 for the lowest frequency.  Since half that is only 130
feet, you have plenty of room for the antenna.  Just fold a portion of the
wire over at the extreme ends and keep it separated from the center portion
by 6-8 inches or so. Bring them in as far as they go and use string to keep
them in position.  Setup your other dipoles, 80 and 40 beneath the 160 meter
element.

The impedance of the feed for the 160 meter linear loaded dipole will be
low, probably about 40-50 ohms, if I remember correctly. The rest of the
dipoles will be close to 50 ohms.  Trim the highest frequency antenna first
and work your way to the 160.  Since you are using a tuner, it shouldn't
make a lot of difference that you have a little mismatch. 

I suspect the 160 antenna will have some degradation from a full size
inverted vee or dipole, but it will probably be quite adequate.  

My 80 meter dipole tunes 160 well.  I can hear ok, but it is hard for
someone to hear me.  It has been my experience that frequency cut short
dipoles work much better than tuning a dipole at half the size with a tuner.


73 and good luck
Buck