[TowerTalk] Dipole Centre - Proximity To Metal Mast

[Fred Roberts]

Jim-

For most hams, a dipole never really is put up as high as we would like, and most 
times the ends are closer to the ground.  But, aside from putting dipoles up as high 
as we can and trying to avoid proximity to adjacent metal, there isn't much one can do.

That said, after the antenna is put up you can adjust the two ends to achieve the 
best SWR and put that SWR wherever you want it in the band.

Over the years, I have worked a great number of hams who had attic dipoles, dipoles 5 
feet off the ground, and so on.  Yet, most of them have said, "The antenna works 
great - I can work everyone I can hear."

Just enjoy what you have to the utmost,

73-
Fred, W6TKV
Riverside, CA

Jim Martin - MM0BQI wrote:

> I have a small garden and just manage to squeeze a 40/80 loaded dipole from the roof to the fence.  The centre of the dipole is currently unsupported six feet above the flat roof and I would like to increase this to about fifteen feet by supporting the centre with a fifteen foot metal mast.  Can I secure the dipole centre directly to the metal mast (2 inch diam pole) or should I use some form of insulated stand off?  The dipole ends are only a foot from the metal end supports, will this be having a detrimental effect on performance?
> With this sort of compromise you need to squeeze every bit of advantage where you can so your comments and advice on what is actually worthwhile doing would be appreciated.
> Thanks
> Jim,  MM0BQI