Topband: Short radials?

[Jim Brown]

On 9/27/2012 8:29 AM, lmlangenfeld tds.net wrote:
> I could sure use some feedback based on real-world experience.*

All the published research on the topic, both computed and measured, 
shows that the differences between one radial layout and another are 
small -- on the order of a dB or two. "Real world experience" is 
meaningless for establishing differences this small -- propagation often 
causes signal strength differences of 20 dB or more.

A very general guideline, based on what looks like solid research, is 
that radials should not be longer than the vertical height of the 
antenna, and that if we wish to improve your radial system, we should 
use more radials, not longer ones.

Some of the best work I've seen on this is by Rudy Severns, N6LF. Rudy 
has done extensive, careful measurements with various radial systems, 
following them up with extensive study and modeling to understand his 
results.  google to find his website, then study his work.  Rudy is also 
exceptionally good at explaining his results.

73, Jim K9YC