Nothing in this post is true. Optimum length for a counterpoise is a
quarter wave. Radials are a form of counterpoise, and their optimum
length is also a quarter wave. More radials reduce ground losses.
Failing to provide an adequate counterpoise will cause the antenna's
return current to flow on your coax, which makes the rig hot with RF.
That's not much of a problem with 5W, but it can be a very big deal with
100W or more.
Of course, it does depend on what you mean by "much" and "minimal."
Inadequate counterpoise or radial systems can easily reduce you signal
by 6 dB. That's an S-unit, and it reduces your 5W signal to 1.25W. I
wouldn't call that minimal or "not much."
73, Jim K9YC
On Thu,12/29/2016 7:30 AM, Fred Moore wrote:
With an end fed 1/4 wave you only need a counterpoise that is about .05
wave length. it can be the coax or another counterpoise. Although a
counterpoise has some effect on radiation pattern of a quarter wave
radiator, it is minimal. You won't see much improvement in performance
by going above .05 wave length.. it's not worth the trouble to increase
the counterpoise length..
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