[Elecraft] Slinky Question

[Vic Rosenthal]

Debbob85@aol.com wrote:
> 
> I want to install an antenna for my K1 in an attic with many metal object,
> including power and phone lines, metal closets, ridge vent,  filing cabinets,
> ceiling light fixtures, etc.  and will appreciate feedback on the following:
>        1. What impact will all this metal have on my signal?  

Metal objects that are small compared to the wavelength will not have much
effect unless the antenna is very close (a foot) to them.  So I wouldn't worry
too much about the filing cabinets, etc.  Power and phone lines are bad because
of detuning, noise radiation, and RFI if you run more power someday.  You should
try to arrange the antenna to cross these lines at right angles rather than to
run parallel if possible.

>        2. Does anyone have experience with a slinky antenna? 

Slinkys are not the most effective way to shorten an antenna.  If you need to
make a dipole shorter than 1/2 wl one good way to do it would be to use 'linear
loading': 

   ------------------------+   +-----------------------
             +-------------+   +------------+
             +------------->   <------------+
                         feedpoint  
               
You can make the folded sections out of ladder line.

73
Vic K2VCO