[SOC] Antenna matching

[JMcAulay]

At 03:53 PM 09/26/2004 +0100, Paul M3CRQ wrote:
>Hi All,
>
>Here's a proper radio question.

Well, of course, that's the sort we prefer around here.

>I'm still learning about this so apologies for any gaffs.

Ah, education of the ignorant is one of the paramount aims of the Amateur
Radio fraternity.

>I have an Elecraft K2 (with which I'm extremely happy) running into a full
>size G5RV.

Well, now, there's your problem.  Or, at least so some people would suggest
 A genuine, full-size, no less, G5RV.  I would suspect that more lrrelevant
information has been bandied about regarding the G5RV antenna than any
other two put together, with the possible exceptions of the W8JK and the
Windom.  However, I've been keen to see that other respondents have not
just claimed out of hand that your situation is hopeless.  In fact, some
suggestions re the G5RV have been quite utilitarian.

>The G5RV consists of a horizontal dipole with an impedance matching ladder
>line dropped from the centre.

Yes, that's a simplified version of the almost inscrutable design of this
antenna, working as it does with no more general knowledge abroad as to
"why?" than we have about the 200-year old triboelectric series.  As we all
know, nobody has quite figured that out yet, either.  Of course, it works
too, just like the G5RV antenna.  All over again, we are faced with the
striking similarity that no one really knows why.  

In your circumstance, as you are a proud resident of the Home Isles, I
suggest that you examine the information made available by the Ministry of
Aerials.  If any group on Earth can be truly helpful, it is no doubt this
little-known pack of knaves.  Their assistance can be sought at
<http://web.archive.org/web/20011215021447/www.david.laverty.com/aerials/tec
h.htm>.
>
>Does this sound sensible or am I completely barmy?
>
Who cares, my good man, who cares.  After all, it can't be *that*
important... that's why we call it "AMATEUR" Radio.  Especially when it is
pursued in Second-Class fashion.  Anyway, if the Ministry of Aerials can't
assist with your sundry radiator problems, perhaps at least they can help
inscribe a smile on your face.

Very 73
John WA6QPL  SOC 263