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| Image of miniwhip on VK1OD's website |
VK1OD has done an interesting analysis of the PA0RDT E-field probe miniwhip receiving antenna. This is very popular as an effective antenna from 8.9kHz right through to the HF bands. I have used my own versions on the VLF, LF and MF bands with great success, but I commend the PA0RDT design to you. His design uses readily available semiconductors to give excellent IP2 and IP3 figures. You may be surprised how something this tiny and simple can work so well if mounted away from the house on a small pole. Remember, you do NOT need big antennas to receive on the lower bands: it is S/N that matters not very low noise figures. VK1OD's analysis is somewhat harsh: in my view it works as a true E-field probe should, even at VLF.
2 comments:
I agree with VK1OD's comments. Having experimented with the original and variants of this probe, for me there's a common theme - noise. Often you see this recommended for people with limited space, and may imply built-up areas. This probe needs to be far away from everything, and high up to perform over its claimed bandwidth. In urban areas an active loop embarrasses it.
Hello, e-fields are largely affected by buildings and inside home it´s even worth.
A magnetic loop in this case should be a better option. To illustrate this I have made this video :
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ULIAczYUbvo
73
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