I presently have a DB-224E as my 'main' repeater antenna.
I have a second DB-224E available to me.
The existing antenna is on a four-foot side-mount at the top of my
now-40-foot tower. (The tower was a 140' self supporting unit, but
suffered a failure; I am now using the remaining 40 foot 'stub' as the
present position of the side-mounted DB-224E.)
I have a second DB-224E available to me. I am THINKING of placing the
second antenna on the same side-mount, but mounted below the one that
now extends UP from the 4-foot side mount that is now in place.
1. Do I mount this antenna 'right side up' or can I simply install it
inverted? (I am assuming that the elements must be top-end-up.)
2. How can I FEED the two antennas? (I am thinking of a commercial
POWER SPLITTER, or making up a home-made phasing harness.)
3. I am also considering a new PATTERN for the antenna(s) as follows:
A. Arrange the top DB-224E for a bi-directional pattern
B. Arrange the lower DB-224E as either omni (or bi-directional)
4. What is (if any) the critical spacing that I should achieve
between the active elements, or when the entire array of eight active
elements is considered?
MY MAIN QUESTIONS:
- AM I FOOLISH in considering this task? (Is it worth the effort?)
- What would you suggest as the best way to gain coverage, using two
DB-224E antennas?
- Rather than re-invent the wheel, I'd just as soon tap the experience
of you good folks.
Thank you!!
-Mike-
K0JTA
