It may not be obvious but often you can get better bandwidth by NOT tuning for 1:1 at the desired frequency! Those familiar with the Smith chart probably already know this.
A narrow band antenna will produce a curve between a "U" and a "V" on the Smith chart. If you tune for a 1:1 SWR, you bring the nose of the curve to the center of the chart. This often leaves the "tails" outside the desired SWR circle. If you continue until the nose goes to the opposite side of the SWR circle, it brings more of the tails into the circle. The resulting SWR curve is a "W" shape. It won't be 1:1 at any frequency but more of the curve will lie within the chosen SWR circle. 73, Roger On 2/22/2014 11:03 AM, Charlie Cunningham wrote:
Well, I agree with all that, Carl. But Carl Braun, was reading "dead-flat" 1:1 at the transmitter end of his cable. I believe he is done!! The antenna Q is what it is! As for "improving his 2:1 VSWR bandwidth" he could reduce his radial field and increase his ground losses to improve his 2:1 "BW" - but I believe that to be self-defeating!! I'm not "missing your point" - I just don't see what you'd change to improve on a "flat" line! Carl is well past the point of "diminishing returns"! The math doesn't "lie"! Charlie, K4OTV
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