[TenTec] Using an Argosy in the field

[Rick - DJ0IP / NJ0IP]

John,

Another idea for securing radials is, instead of using nails, simply attach
4oz or 5oz lead sinkers to the ends of the radials (from the fishing
supplies store).  That is enough weight to hold them in place, without
having to pound them into the ground.  Also, if a pedestrian happens to
catch his foot in one, it will move with him and not trip him up.  

If you are not after squeezing every last fraction of a dB out of the
antenna, I would suggest mounting the coil lower to the ground, about 4 or 5
ft. high.   That way you can reach it to change the taps.

Important is to have fun!  I never made it to a Ten-Tec Hamfest.  I envy you
being able to go.

73
Rick, DJ0IP

-----Original Message-----
From: tentec-bounces at contesting.com [mailto:tentec-bounces at contesting.com]
On Behalf Of John
Sent: Wednesday, April 04, 2012 6:09 PM
To: Discussion of Ten-Tec Equipment
Subject: Re: [TenTec] Using an Argosy in the field

Rick,

You found it.  And yes, I do understand that it will be barely functional at
60 M. It does give me 10, 15, and 20 M so that would be nice break in the
driving.  The antenna only needs the coil for 60 m, 40 M, 30M  and barely (1
turn) for 20M,  I am going to think about your 
suggestion for 40.   But it is collapsible and I started with the 
premise that if I am going to the TT Fleamarket, I should bring a radio. 
   I have the Argosy, and it works,  I can find picnic benches between here
and there. This antenna seems like a reasonable compromise and the Argosy
dunna work so well without one.

As to radials, I was thinking about 12 radials  about 15 ft long.  
Attach 2 sets to each side of the base with a wing nut. Again, it isn't
ideal, but should work reasonably well.  I was thinking about getting a
15 or so 40 or 60 d nails to use as anchors.  Maybe 20d nails might be
better, or at least cheaper and easier to insert into the ground.  I could
crimp large rings on the outer end of each radial and nail it down, so to
speak.  At any rate, I do believe that 12 to 16 radials is the minimum to
make the antenna play nice.

At the very least,it is an interesting project.

John / WA1JG