[Elecraft] MP-1 Antenna

[Bob Lewis (AA4PB)]

The MP1 does not require a tuner. It has a loading coil with an
adjustable slider. Using my K2 with the build-in tuner I find that I
can adjust the MP1 slider for maximum receiver noise and it will be
set close enough for the tuner to match it with no problem.

Like any short antenna, it is very inefficient when compared to a full
sized 1/2 wave dipole antenna, especially on the lower frequency
bands. Its primary advantage is that it is small and easy to
transport. Any time you can put up a full sized antenna you should do
it.

Ideally the counterpoise wires should be 1/4 wavelength but again
there is a compromise by making them shorter. The MP1 performs better
on 10 meters than it does on 40 meters (or 75 meters if you add the
optional coil).

The MP1 is a good little portable antenna but don't expect it to
perform like a full sized antenna.