[TowerTalk] Topband: Radials on ground v FCP

[Jim Brown]

On 1/12/2022 11:49 AM, Ignacy Misztal wrote:
> N6BT made measurements on 40m. He found that radials inches of the air are
> much better than many more on the ground. His QTH is OR with very good soil.
Hi Ignacy,

I think you may be confusing N6BT with N6LF. Both are serious engineers 
who combine design and modeling with experimental work.

N6BT is a contester and antenna mfr, and has done lots of work with 
respect to temporary contesting setups on the beach, and more recently 
on a test range in western AZ. He was the original owner/designer of 
Force12, current company is Next Generation. He self-published a very 
informative essays as "Array Of Light," which includes details of many 
of his designs and design techniques. N6LF is the guy based in OR whose 
work you've cited a small fraction of.

I wouldn't describe K2AV's signal in NorCal as "great" compared to other 
NC stations, who are always louder. I view his FCP as a compromise 
solution for those for whom radial systems are not practical. The FCP is 
a quarter-wavelength wire, folded. Two of my neighbors have rigged it at 
their stations.

I don't see physical logic for why an FCP would be better at high angles 
than low. In principle, it provides a counterpoise that minimizes 
coupling of loss from the earth beneath it, but it fails to serve the 
other function of radial systems, to shield the antenna field from the 
lossy earth surrounding it.

73, Jim K9YC