Topband: Inverted V vs inverted L

[Mark Lunday]

>>> The inverted L will out perform and inverted vee, hands down, 90% of the time.  The few exceptions will probably be near your local SR (and other 
times) when horizontal polarization can work better   Dave, W0FLS<<<

This conclusion regarding probability is supported through numerous observations over the years in various texts and documented in John Delvodere's "Low Band DXing" 5th Edition Chapter 14 Section 7.

But each installation is unique.  These are probabilistic forecasts (like the weather).

The important thing is to go into the experiment with realistic expectations and a priori knowledge of most-likely outcomes.  But by all means, experiment!  Share your results!  We are all learning new things every day, especially about Top Band.

I will share my experience when I phased two dipoles on 80 meters, 20 feet high above average soil, as an experiment:  I presumed, based upon standard literature I had reviewed up until that point and 45 years of personal experience, that the installation would be a "ground warmer."  

Imagine my surprise when I was able to easily hear and work into EU running QRP!  I learned a lot from that experiment and VA2GU's assistance (although John Delvodere does discuss this type of antenna at the beginning of Chapter 12 in the 5th Edition).  VA2GU has evaluated phased wires extensively and has collected data to confirm his conclusions (you can see his analysis on his QRZ.com web page.)  Alas, a storm brought the dipoles down and the tree supports with them.

Mark Lunday, WD4ELG
Greensboro, NC  FM06be
wd4elg at arrl.net
http://wd4elg.blogspot.com
SKCC #16439  FISTS #17972  QRP ARCI #16497