0
$\begingroup$

I have this antenna EFHW 40-10 from Maple Leaf Studios. My current configuration: Inverted L with feed point 3m above ground, with "L" at 9m. I have 45 20-foot in-ground radials just below the feed point, as well as two ground rods connected to the radial plate, and the ground of the match box is connected to the radial plate. My question is: Will lowering the feed point all the way to the ground hurt the performance in any way? The manufacturer recommended that the antenna be at least six feet above the ground, which most of it would be. I'd like to extend the vertical as far as possible (I'm limited as to how far I can go up, due to my mast), and reduce the length of my antenna ground. Any help is appreciated. Thanks. I like the performance and versatility of the inverted-L and, given my limited yard size, feel that this is the best all-around multiband option.

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
4
  • $\begingroup$ Thank you. That makes perfect sense. $\endgroup$
    – K8KV
    Oct 19, 2019 at 18:23
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ @RichardFry Dick, making your comment into an answer will help future visitors to find your response. $\endgroup$
    – Brian K1LI
    Oct 20, 2019 at 12:37
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ Thank you, Brian. In the past I've had one of my answers downvoted and converted by someone into a comment, so I'm a bit uncertain of the Rules here, yet. Should I delete my comment and submit it as an answer? $\endgroup$
    – Richard Fry
    Oct 20, 2019 at 16:17
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ @RichardFry Yes. Comments are for requesting clarification of the question, not answering it. $\endgroup$
    – Kevin Reid AG6YO ♦
    Oct 20, 2019 at 17:46

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
3
$\begingroup$

RE: "The manufacturer recommended that the antenna be at least six feet above the ground, ..."

The reason probably is related to the r-f current flowing along ~six feet of "ground" wire, and/or along the outer diameter of the shield of the coax line connected to the input transformer. Those paths form the 2nd radiating conductor/section of this antenna system, and complete the conditions needed to enable its radiation.

Greatly reducing those conductor lengths likely will reduce the radiation efficiency of that antenna system configuration.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
1
  • $\begingroup$ If the feedpoint is 1 ft. AGL but the match box is grounded to the in-ground radial system, I should still be OK? I think? $\endgroup$
    – K8KV
    Apr 14, 2020 at 17:47

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .