[Elecraft] Non-resonant attic loop

[Julian, G4ILO]

My attic loop is probably a bit less than 88ft, and probably a bit too 
close to 66ft, but it's the biggest I can fit in my attic. With an 
Elecraft BL1 balun at the feed point, and a couple of metres of RG-213 
down to the radio directly below it, the KAT2 can match it on all bands 
160m to 10m, except 60m which I don't have a permit for and my K2 can't 
do anyway. My new T1 will match it on all bands 80m to 6m.

Although I can match the loop on 80 and 160m it isn't very useful. I 
think it radiates in a vertical direction on those bands. Mostly I just 
pick up loads of computery noises. I've never made a contact on any of 
those bands, which I've always considered closed to QRP operators 
restricted to indoor antennas. (If anyone knows how to radiate a decent 
signal on 80m from something that will fit in a 6m x 6m sq attic, I'd 
like to know the secret.)

By the way, I used an LDG 4:1 balun previously, and the results were 
much improved when the BL1 replaced it. Signals seemed stronger, the 
KAT2 managed a lower SWR on 40m and it easn't possible to match the loop 
at all on 80 and 160 with the LDG balun.

73,
-- 
Julian, G4ILO (K2 #392)
G4ILO's Shack: http://www.tech-pro.net/g4ilo

Gene Worth <eworth at spamcop.net> wrote:

I'm needing to install an antenna in my new home. An attic loop is a 
necessity ... can't run an outside wire easily.

I'm assuming that an 88-ft loop will be non-resonant in all bands 80-10, 
and fed with ladder line to the tuner should work.

Other suggestions?


Thanks.


gene
KC0RXY soon /9