I'm watching an interesting project develop here in Yuma.
W7WW has a big M2 tribander at 70', a 40-2CD at 78',
and he will be adding a Steppir Dipole, just below the 40,
for so2r.
The big question is whether the Steppir, set on 15m, will
degrade the M2 when he is trying to use the M2 on 10M.
Other combinations may also be problematic. At least
both antennas will not be used on the same band at one
time.
Since the Steppir's length can be varied right down to
near zero, it should be easy to determine from field tests
whether the M2's f/b ratio, and even gain to some extent,
are affected by the length of the Steppir.
Depending on how the dipole turns out, he may upgrade to
the 2 el Steppir, possibly mounting the elements right
on the 40-2CD boom. Crossover switching could also be
used, such that all 10/15/20 transmitting is done on the
M2, and never the Steppir.
Even without the upgrades, the dipole at 78' should
be pretty darn good.
Any thoughts on the idea?
Dave Hachadorian, K6LL
Yuma, AZ
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