It depends on how good your ground plane is.
W8JI has an interesting page about FCP vs radials.
http://www.w8ji.com/fcp_folded_counterpoise_system.htm
Perhaps you could measure the current on your existing radial system for
additional insight.
Art NK8X
ᐧ
On Thu, Dec 3, 2015 at 2:52 PM, Chortek, Robert L. <
Robert.Chortek@berliner.com> wrote:
> Dear Fellow Topband Enthusiasts:
>
>
> I'm hoping to get a little help here:
>
>
> Q: Will I see noticeable improvement if I change my radial system to a
> FCP and/or raise the base of my elevated vertical?
>
>
> Background: I have a 60 foot tall vertical I use on 80 meters, which I
> also base load for 160. The antenna is fed at the base about 3 feet off
> the ground. The radial system consists of 12 gull wing radials (8 for 160
> and 4 four 80) which slope up to the roof about 10 feet or so high, then
> make a 90 degree turn and then run roughly parallel to one another but fan
> out somewhat (6 and 6) The radials essentially form a U shape (base of the
> U slopes up to the roof and then the legs of the U are on the roof because
> that is what my lot allows.
>
>
> 1. If I were to replace the radials with a FCP system (and raising the
> base of the antenna from 3 feet to 8 feet), would my transmitted signal
> improve to the point where anyone would notice?
>
>
> 2. If I just raised the base of the antenna from 3 feet to 8 feet and
> kept the existing radial system would my transmitted signal improve to the
> point where anyone would notice?
>
>
> As a frame of reference, I have worked 144 countries on 160 from a 1/4
> acre city lot in San Jose, CA. and worked nearly 200 on 80, so I am having
> some success. Just trying to figure out what I could do better. Please,
> let's not talk about top loading vs. base loading because that is not my
> question (I understand the benefits of top loading vs. base or center
> loading, but have my reasons for using base loading - for now) .
>
>
> Any help would be greatly appreciated.
>
>
> 73,
>
>
> Bob/AA6VB
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