Topband: radial wire size

[Bill Wichers]

The only real difference when using reasonable-gauge sizes is in physical durability. Electrically it makes little difference since you effectively have a large number of radials in parallel so each one carries only a relatively small percentage of the overall current in the system.

I use 18 gauge bare solid copper on my radials. I use that size since I consider it a practical minimum in terms of physical durability and I can get it for around $50/thousand feet from my supplier (although they have a 5,000 foot minimum order). I've had some 60+ radials in place for about 4-5 years without any problems. Once the copper turns a dull-brown color after the first season it's almost impossible to see on the ground.

A lot of people use 14 gauge since that's a commonly available size for building wire in the US. It's easy to get through "regular" (hardware store) channels and it's strong. There isn't really any electrical advantage to the heavier wire -- you won't notice any difference in performance.

I think you'll be fine with the #17 wire you have access to. Save the money on the smaller radial wire and spend it somewhere else where it will make more difference in your overall antenna system. 

   -Bill

> Hello
> 
> 
> 
> Thinking in a 4 SQ, buried radials, 60 or more on each vertical
> 
> 
> 
> What is the difference in performance between installing radial wire size
> #14 (2.08 mm2) or #17 (1.04 mm2) ?
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> 
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> #14 is the size that DXE sell, so I think is a good size for radials. But what about
> #17?
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> 
> In $$$ is the half J, so want to know what I am loosing in performance, if any
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> Thanks in advance
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> 
> 73,
> 
> Jorge
> 
> CX6VM/CW5W
> 
> 
> 
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