Simple Ham Radio Antennas

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za3xQs6wAR0. With the possible exception of vertical dipoles, most  1/4 wave length vertical antennas need a good ground radial or counterpoise system to function at peak efficiency.  The radial system supplies the "missing half" of the vertical antenna. In this well-made tutorial from Dominic Smith (M0BLF), we see a properly installed ground radial system used with a Hustler 6-BTV multiband HF antenna. Although there is no "hard and fast rule" governing the number of radials for a 1/4 wavelength vertical antenna, 16 to 34 radials seems to be a good compromise.  Of course, property limitations will determine how many radials you lay down.  Put down as many radial wires as you can.  If this plan seems too tedious or time-consuming, try 4 to 6 elevated radials.  This system appears to work well for some radio amateurs. Dominic do...

If you can't see the video, please insert this title URL into your browser search box: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za3xQs6wAR0. An often neglected part of a vertical HF antenna is the installation of a good ground radial or counterpoise system.  The ground screen supplies what is commonly called "the missing half" of a vertical antenna.  In this video we see how Dominic Smith installed a buried ground radial system for his Hustler 6-BTV vertical antenna.  Even though Dominic lives in a valley, the ground radial system allowed him to increase the efficiency of the Hustler antenna and grab some interesting DX contacts. Although the number of ground radial wires isn't firmly set in stone, it's probably a good idea to install as many radial wires as you can.  From my own experience on 40 meters, I've found a radial system consisting of 16 to 32 one-quarter wavelength wires seems to improve the performance of my homebrew 40 meter helix antenna.  Many c...