[Elecraft] BL2 Question

[Craig D. Smith]

David ...

The advice you are getting here is right on - the BL-2 should be a very
useful tool in achieving the type of portable antenna you want.

A popular length of dipole for working 40 thru 10 is 44 feet (22 ft per
side).  This can  be installed either as a flattop or inverted V depending
upon the available support facilities and fed with TV window line as you
propose.  I use this arrangement here with good results for my temporary
antenna for field day, sweepstakes, etc.  It makes a fairly compact portable
antenna that is capable of good performance.  

Don is correct in pointing out that your success with loading will be
dependent on the feedline length.  I actually haven't measured my feedline
length - just installed what would reach the shack from the back yard.  With
the switchable balun I can match all bands 40 thru 10 including WARC with
the tuner in my K2.  I believe the K1 tuner has less matching range, but I
think you would still have a good shot at a match on all bands.

For your portable operation I would suggest making up a couple of feedline
extensions, perhaps 5 ft and 10 ft.  Install PowerPole connectors on each
end.  If you have difficulty with a match on a given band, snap in an
extension and try again.  I've done this, but actually haven't needed to use
them yet!

Have fun!

          73
                   ... Craig  AC0DS