How-to set swr's on a alpha v-58 ground plain?

Answer 1

Assuming you are setting this for the CB or 10 Meter amateur band. What worked for me, measure around the gamma from the input 7" and use that as a starting point for your gamma match. Do not allow the the wire from the the center conductor of the feedpoint to come into contact with the center section, it should be in free air and in an arc. Extend the vertical sections to their maximum length, shorten in 4 inch incremements until you achieve a 2:1 VSWR on eaither side of the band you matching it to. At this point, drop to 2 inch increments until you achieve a 1.5:1 VSWR on both sides of the band. Adjust the gamma match in half inch increments until you achieve a flat swr. This will take some time and effort but it is worth it. Some things to remember. Antenna is a conductor, IT WILL KILL YOU if you get it into power lines. Have someone help you if at all possible. Close by objects, like power lines, buildings, ladders will throw off your reading. Remember the SWR Trick, If the SWR is Higher on your Highest Frequency and lower on your lowest frequency, then the sections need to be made shorter. And vice versa. Example: Ch:1 is 3:1 CH 40 is 1.5:1 - make it longer. Ch: 1 is 1.0 and CH 40 is 2:1 - make it shorter. Hope this helps. KB5%%%