[Antennaware] 2 element tribanders

[K9AY]

John,

In general, tribanders with longer elements should be more efficient, and 
generally get better reviews by their users. Of the ones you mention, the 
TH-2 and TA-32 fit the above criteria, but do not cover 17 and 12 (but may 
be quite usable with a tuner). Don't know about Force 12 after the recent 
ownership change, but the C-3S is another choice. I've also known a number 
of hams with the Cushcraft A-3 tribander on a roof tripod.

Another option is a rotatable dipole, especially if you can get it higher. 
Modeling shows that when you go from 25 to 40 feet, a 20M dipole has 2 dB 
more gain, with a much lower takeoff angle. This option is especially 
attractive if you can get a free old tribander with an intact driven 
element! I did this with a CL-33 d.e. some years back; it worked well.

73, Gary
K9AY



>I have been looking at getting a 2 element tribander up on the roof tripod, 
>so its height will be about 25 feet or so above ground.  The 2 elements 
>ones I have seen on the market with a manageable boom length (6 feet or so) 
>for me include the Mosley TA32jr, Mini 32, and Mini 33, the Cushcraft MA5B, 
>and the Hy-Gain TH2.  In looking at the specs of these antennas there seems 
>to be some real differences in the advertised gain, in the order or 2 or 
>more DB difference on some bands.  Has anyone modeled these antennas at a 
>low height (or used one at a low height) and could comment on their 
>performance or modeled gain?
>
> 73s John AA5JG