15 Jun 2010

Grounded electrode antenna on 500kHz

This evening I tried listening on 500kHz WSPR using the 20m spaced grounded electrode pair "antenna" in the back garden (earth rods 20m apart). To my surprise I decoded G3ZJO and G7NKS. Both stations were using just 1-2mW ERP. I'm tempted to try this "antenna" (actually a loop formed in the earth) on TX to see if anyone can decode me on 500kHz.
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2 comments:

  1. G8JGOWed Jun 16, 03:41:00 pm GMT+1

    I have noticed an increase in signals at LF/MF my putting the antenna on the ground. I made a helical using plastic pipe and 600ohm ribbon feeder as an RX ant. When layed on the ground MF NDBs and topband signals came up greatly. In audio, I use to us a microphone called a pressure zone mic. This put the mic capsule (pointing down) 3mm above the surface which was a flat plate.

    Just wondered if there is a similar effect with RF?

    G8JGO 73.

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  2. PastelArtistMon Jun 21, 09:15:00 pm GMT+1

    Just a note Roger, my ERP is still 200uW. Shame that WSPR is incapable of indicating true QRPp levels.

    G3ZJO

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