TopBand: Topband - Proximity to trees

[Wes Attaway]

I use a wire vertical that is suspended from a pine tree limb 92' above
ground.  The tree is 120', or so, tall.  The antenna is about 3 or 4 feet
from the trunk.  On 160, the antenna operates as a 90' top loaded vertical
(capacity hat), and on 80 it operates as a quarter-wave vertical.  I have
about 15,000' of radials of various lengths .... 30' to 400'.  I do not
think the tree has any appreciable effect on the operation of the antenna. 
Impedances are approximately what would be expected. Signal results seem to
be good.  I work everything I can hear .... hearing being the limiting
factor.  As a long-time low band operator, I would advise anyone to put up
the best antenna possible, close to a tree if necessary, and get on the
air.  If you have a large field and some time, put up a four square. 
Otherwise, do what you can.  The tree discussion is pointless, from a
practical standpoint.
--------------- Wes Attaway  (N5WA) ----------------
2048 Pepper Ridge, Shreveport, LA 71115
    318-7973012 (Office); 797-4972 (Fax)
------------------- wes@prysm.net ----------------------


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