[TowerTalk] 80M Delta Loop

[Jim Brown]

On 7/26/2024 5:30 PM, john at kk9a.com wrote:
> Since we cannot change our ground conductivity, is there a number on the
> chart where it's not worth installing a typical 80m 4 square (with buried
> radials)?  It looks like many of the big New England contest stations are in
> the 1-2 millimhos/meter zone.

Based on how KQ2M considers his 4-square a success with his poor ground, 
I'd say the decision for that ground quality comes down to whether it's 
practical to rig a very high dipole broadside to directions that are 
important to you.

With better ground, I'd model the difference with a vertical antenna 
between Bob's 1-2 millimhos and what yours is. And compare that with 
what you can get with that high dipole (if it's practical for you). Note 
the figure of merit for height of horizontal dipoles on 80 and 40M in 
the paper I linked.

Another point. I was beating N6RO into Asia on 80M with my dipole at 120 
ft vs his 80M 4-square with elevated radials @10 ft. Two years ago, the 
team rigged a rotary dipole in the range of 160 ft, and they are kicking 
butt on that band! And I think they're on pretty good ground.

73, Jim K9YC