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Re: Aluminum Masts for H-Field Antennas?


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Posted by John Davis on April 04, 2017 at 22:38:31.

In Reply to: Aluminum Masts for H-Field Antennas? posted by A. Green on April 04, 2017 at 21:26:47.

I might dispute the term "H-field loop" on general principle, but I can't find any real RF-related reason not to use an aluminum mast for the center support of a delta loop intended for temporary receiving use. You'll presumably be using some sort of insulator(s) to stand off the wire a few inches from the mast; and if you keep the lower corners of the deltas symmetrical with respect to the mast and the earth, the metallic support shouldn't contribute anything to electrostatic pickup.

There might be other materials less susceptible to mechanical damage in the event of high winds, but the main objection I see to the one you cited is its cost. At basically $10/foot, that's kind of painful. Even though I realize the tripod is the largest part of its cost, I suspect MFJ or DX Engineering might be able to offer a less expensive alternative.

Good luck and best DX!

John

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