Central Vermont (my QTH) has just about the worst conductivity soil in the US. Glacial till on top of Granite. One of the USs largest and oldest Granite mines is only 5 miles from my QTH and is visible across the valley when I am on the tower. Having lived in W5 (Houston area), I know how wonderful packed clay can be for good conductivity.
I have a 2 el T top phased array (70 ft vertical elements). Each has about 50 radials on the ground. 75% are ¼ wave and the balance are the length they could be given the terrain and obstructions. I used the method of continuing to lay radials as long as the last 4 8 radials reduced the input impedance to closer to ideal. If the measurement doesnt change much after laying 4 8 radials, you are reaching diminishing returns. The difference between 8 radials and 32 radials is inspiring enough to keep laying radials. They work well. How much better would they work with Clay conductivity out 5 wavelengths? No idea. They do not work as well as W1KM Salt March thats for sure. I cannot comment on the HiZ receive array. But I have long, terminated beverages that work very well and are known performers for poor conductivity soil if you have the room. 73 Ed N1UR _________________ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
