[TowerTalk] Vertical plans

[Jim Hoge]

Clint,
   
  Why settle for a loaded vertical if you are in the country? You are only talking another ~20' of height for a full sized 1/4 wave antenna. If you do proceed with this design, consider doubling up the tubing at the top of the vertical where it is drilled for the tophat. Also consider something more electrically and mechanically sound than just putting hose clamps on the tophat elements to hold them in place. Over time, wind induced vibrations may widen the holes through which the tophat passes, leading to failure either mechanically or electrically- in this case giving you an intermittantly non resonant antenna. As for base loading with a coil, consider multiple taps switched in and out to give you the bandwidth you desire.
   
  Jim W5QM