[TowerTalk] 40 meter Steppir

[Van Fair]

Maybe a more marketable approach for SteppIr would be to use the current 4 element design and only change two elements to 40 meter capability and eliminate 6 meters to solve mechanical design problems. Maybe price of this approach could be a more realistic $2000 to 2500.  Two elements on 40 and 30  would satisfy the most number of potential customers. A choice of three different element spacings available on the 4 element should provide one acceptable for a 2 element 40 and even a rotatable dipole on 30 would be an upgrade if no spacing would suit 30 meters.  Another  thought is to offer a long driven element for 40 and 30 meters with the other 2 or 3 elements remaining as they are now, to give a rotatable dipole on 30 and 40. 6 meters would probably also have to go to solve mechanical problems but for the next 6 years 6 meters will not attract much attention anyway. This approach would also decrease turning radius which may be a problem for many with a 32 foot boom and 67 foot long elements. 

How do others feel about the direction FM should go in this area.  I don't now own a Steppir but I will buy one as soon as a 40 meter solution is available as described above but I am not sure I can handle or want to give up the fourth element to go with a 3 element full size 10-40 or pay over $3000 . If that is the solution FM decides on then I will probably go with a 4 element and a separate smaller 2 element 40 or a rotatable dipole for 40.  It would help me make a decision if FM would lets us know as soon as they decide and long before it will be avaialable for delivery.  73 Van