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?
>