[Elecraft] Home and portable antenna issues.....

[Dr. William J. Schmidt, II]

I have to scratch my head every time the issue of "what antenna should I use
for bla bla situation" comes up on any reflector.  It's similar to the
question of "what radio should I use for X situation".  When asked, the
responses are mostly personal (as is evident by all the comments from using
everything from a 52 ohm resistor at the back of the radio to a multiple
stack of full-sized yagis), and sometimes even emotional.  But some advice
I've given my kids over the years in selecting "things" or "paths in life"
is to look to see what successful people have done or used in the past.
start there and build on the concept.  One of what I consider to be a mentor
(unknown to him of course). Doug DeMaw (W1FB). I used to always consult his
articles as a young ham in the 60's and 70's.  If it was good enough for
him, chances are it would work for me, or at least be a great starting
point.

 

So basis the type of operating you do. (fixed or portable, contesting or
DXing, High or low power, etc.), check out the people that are currently
successful (or to whatever your goal is) in that area that you wouldn't mind
emulating.  What antennas (or equipment etc.) do they use?  Of course, it's
always ok to improve on what they've done. but why spend all the money and
effort reinventing the wheel?  What's even better, is most hams will talk ad
nauseam about their stations if given the opportunity!

 

Just a lesson from life learnings and listening. 

 

 

Dr. William J. Schmidt - K9HZ J68HZ 8P6HK ZF2HZ PJ4/K9HZ VP5/K9HZ PJ2/K9HZ 

 

Owner - Operator

Big Signal Ranch - K9ZC

Staunton, Illinois

 

Owner - Operator

Villa Grand Piton - J68HZ

Soufriere, St. Lucia W.I.

Rent it:  <http://www.VillaGrandPiton.com> www.VillaGrandPiton.com

www.vrbo.com/487375 <http://www.vrbo.com/487375> 

 

 

email:   <mailto:bill at wjschmidt.com> bill at wjschmidt.com