I have been using a five element array of 1/8th wave (43ft) verticals since 2006 on Top band. I feel this is the lower limit to maintain radiation efficiency as each element is at or near 12.5 Ohms impedance. The array is set up in a rectangle such that there 4 elements broadside E/W and and 3 elements in-line NW, SW,SE and NE. They are all identical top loaded sloping T verticals and matched by UN-UN transformers. The key to their success is low loss matching and low loss ground systems. The center element has 120 .27 wavelength radials and the exterior 4 elements all have > than 60 .27 wavelength radials. This system has done very well for me in making up for less than optimum operator skills in the low power category of competition. The advantages are lower initial cost and single person maintenance.
Bob, W7RH -- Bob Kile, W7RH DM35OS -------------- “There are three kinds of men. The one that learns by reading. The few who learn by observation. The rest of them have to pee on the electric fence for themselves.” Will Rogers _______________________________________________ UR RST IS ... ... ..9 QSB QSB - hw? BK
