[VHFcontesting] Another Example [was: A suggestion for ERP-based Entry Classes]

[Zack Widup]

On Tue, 16 Dec 2003, Ev Tupis (W2EV) wrote:

> Zack Widup wrote:
> > The more I think about it, the more complicated it gets.  Has anyone
> > mentioned path loss yet?  Path losses skyrocket as you go up the bands.
> 
> Surprisingly, ERP-based calculation stays simple.  All one must do is determine
> the "ERP Factor" pivot point that makes the most sense for a given band.  Let's
> use some real examples (just like the one for 432 that was cited in an earlier
> email):
> 
> A. 2-watts to a 55 Element 1296 Loop yagi = 110
> B. 2-watts to  4x 45 Element 1296 Loop yagi array = 360
> C. 9-watts to a 55 element 1296 Loop yagi = 495
> D. 9-watts to  4x 45 Element 1296 Loop yagi array = 1,620
> E. 18-watts to a 55 element 1296 Loop yagi = 990
> F. 18-watts to 4x 45 Element 1296 Loop yagi array = 3,240
> G. 65-watts to a 55 element 1296 Loop yagi = 3,575
> H. 65-watts to 4x 45 Element 1296 Loop yagi array = 11,700
> 
> The question becomes...what should the Pivot Point be for 1296?  In some ways,
> it's as much art as it is science.  In this case, maybe it should be 1,000? 
> Establishing a meaningful Pivot Point is the 'pivotal' part of this proposal. :)
> 
> Once determined by the ARRL, the calculation is e-a-s-y.  This is not unlike the
> way the rules read now, with different power pivot levels for each band.
> 
> Ev, W2EV
> 

It's not so easy.  Calculate how far the above figures will actually get
you distance-wise.  Each band is going to be different.