Topband: Beverages under very dry conditions

[Bill Tippett]

G3PJT:

 >Does anyone have any tips or advice with beverages under such
conditions? For example do we need a ground level wire to join the two
end earths etc?

         Definitely DO NOT do the latter...that is a myth
from W1WCR's book on Beverages.  Most likely a small
counterpoise would work at each end...or a 1/4 wl wire
in the air extending past a termination resistor at the
far end (but that only works for a single band so the
counterpoise is the best solution for multiple bands).
I would try 10-20 radials about 10m long at both ends.

         The good news is:

1.  Beverages work best over poor conductivity ground.
2.  You apparently have room for them!

         Speaking as someone who has heard VooDudes
African expeditions over many years, your low-band
reception has been horrendous, probably due to being
located at urban hotels with no room for RX antennas.
It's good news for all that you will be in a place
where you can erect Beverages...if the locals don't
steal your wire!

                                         73 & GL!

                                         Bill  W4ZV