[TowerTalk] Grading a ground radial system

[Jamesnf@aol.com]

Hi Paul:

Your measured impedence drops with the radials detached because there is less 
loss in the system.  With an extensive radial system, your impedence should 
drop to the vicinity of 32 ohms with a quarter wave, lossless radiator.

I would be more interested in how the radial system is impacting field 
strength than in how it is impacting impedence.  You can always design and install a 
matching network at the feedpoint to achieve an impedence match between your 
feedline and the antenna.  What you want to do with you radial system is 
increase field strength.  When you've done the best you can with your radial 
system, given wire and space available, measure the resulting impedence and match to 
it if necessary.  Don't build the radial system to acheive some desired 
impedence.

73,  Jim W9TM