[Elecraft] field ops

[Ron D' Eau Claire]

> When tossing a random end over the tent and into the trees, what
> is pretty much the minimum useful length.  How long for a
> counterpoise.  I am using the ATU and am planning on working as
> many bands as possible 10-80.
>
> Thanks,
> WA5PB,
> Bill Allen
>

The minimum useful length is a few feet - long enough for the ATU to find a
match - if you don't care how well you get out.

If you want the rig to show some sort of "performance", use 1/4 wavelength
as the absolute minimum length and 1/2 wavelength is a LOT better. In that
sort of situation, the difference between 1/4 and 1/2 wavelength of wire
heading up into the trees can be several "S" units at the other end. The
problem becomes finding a tall enough tree or a strong enough throwing arm
for 80 and 40 meters (I have a slingshot and some small fishing weights, but
be careful! They are considered "weapons" in many parts of the USA!).

Put some monofilament fishline leader on the far end of the wire. You want
it insulated from the foliage.

The counterpoise is 1/4 wavelength long to provide a low impedance point at
the rig. So you either need to have some sort of loading system to bring it
to 'resonance' on each band, or run a 1/4 wavelength long wire for each
band.

Ron AC7AC
K2 # 1289