Julian G4ILO wrote
Surely the more efficient ground coupling should
make the antenna perform better, not worse?
Well, Julian, do you think maybe we should continue this discussion on
a more appropriate forum like HFpack?
But, the my main point is this:
Especially for QRP (like the FT817), it is important not to waste
power by delivering that power into the resistive earth soil ground.
HF grounded-radial quarterwave verticals simply are not as efficient
as elevated groundplane verticals or vertical dipoles. The old
theories about the HF benefit of buried ground radials have fallen
down under real world testing.
I live in an area of the most conductive soil in North America (salt
marsh island---25metres from salt water). I have tested both grounded
radials and elevated radial verticals here (portable, pedestrian, and
fixed antennas). The elevated ones always win by 6~20dB, depending on
frequency and configuration.
So... if you want to radiate your little portable 5W signal into the
air, get your antenna as up as high above the earth ground as
practical!
Bonnie KQ6XA
