Topband: FCP vs Gull Wing Elevated Radials

[Chortek, Robert L.]

I am going to add what may be a meaningless post to this thread.

I live on a 1/4 acre lot in the black hole of San Jose California. Until very recently I was using a base loaded 1/8 wave vertical for 10 years. The vertical is on the side of the house 10 feet from the property line. I run eight 1/4 wave radials from the base of the vertical 48 inches high to the roof at about 10 feet where they make a 90° bend and run in various directions. The radial system forms a U shape.  

The system is highly asymmetrical and far from optimum. I run legal limit. This system has allowed me to work in excess of 150 countries on topband. The point I’m making is a dedicated top and operator can have what I would consider a high degree of success with even a compromise in antenna system.

Don’t lot perfect, or even good, be the enemy of the best you can do. You might be surprised at what you can accomplish.

73,


Bob AA6VB 
Robert L. Chortek