I spent a few hours researching QST and other HAM publications when I
installed my first vertical in 1977. Like SWR, there are almost as many
ideas as amateurs. Any wire, insulated or not regardless of composition
works fine. I also found discussions on length and number. Some cut and
lay 4 for each band. There is a point of diminishing return so far as
number is concerned. Doubling the number does not double the performance.
After about 32, it isn't worth the trouble. I had sixteen some of which had
to curve. Anything you do will increase your antenna's performance even if
it is only four. A friend of mine buried chicken wire all over his back
yard. It worked but soon rusted.
Hope this helps.
73
Bob Martin
KC3FI
EchoLink Node - 55127
Please visit http://www.wan-leatonks.net.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Gery Gaubert" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Thursday, September 06, 2007 10:35 AM
Subject: radials for vertical antenna
>I am in the process of rounding up some wire to use as radials for my
> vertical antenna and came across a few hundred feet of cable that was
> used for satellite tv and some rg58 that was run for cable tv. Can I
> use any of this as radials?
>