[Antennas] Questions: Copperweld, Masts, TTFD, etc

2002年5月12日 10:39:12 -0700

Hello everyone
	I've moved into a new house which sits on over 1/3 ac recently, 
and plans for antennas are just about firmed up. I'd like to briefly 
describe those plans below, ask some questions and solicit any 
comments/opinions you'd like to share. 
	The main support is a 50 ft. push up TV mast. It will support 
the point of a delta loop antenna of about 300' of wire. It will also 
have a copper pipe J-pole antenna for 6 meters and another copper 
pipe J-pole for 2m/440 mhz at the top which I estimate to be at 
about 70' above the ground. The lower sections may support some 
receiving antennas for VHF/UHF scanning. 
	I intend avoid the problems with metal guys by using Mylar 
rope. 1/4" rope has a breaking strength of 1,200 lbs and Mylar is 
reported to not have the fungus, moisture or stretch problems of 
other ropes and is recommended by one company (U.S. Rope) for 
antenna applications.
	Antenna wire: I can obtain over 600' of #15 solid Copperweld 
wire. I intend to use it for the Delta Loop and also for a TTFD 
antenna of about 100' in length. Is #15 an appropriate size for the 
Delta Loop of over 300'? Will I regret using solid copperweld when I 
try to handle it? Is DC resistance a factor in any way? I also 
intend to feed both wire antennas with homemade open wire feed 
(the loop being fed at a lower corner) made with the Copperweld. Is 
that overkill for the feedlines? I will probably use an air core balun 
at the entrance to the shack for both antennas.
	Feel free to share any opinions on the TTFD.
	The Sacramento area is in the Central Vally of California. We 
don't have hurricanes, severe thunderstorms or tornadoes. Our 
earthquake risk is even low by California standards.
	Thanks for your time in considering the above. Feel free to 
share any opinions. I subscribe to the digest, so reply direct and 
to the list if you desire. 
			Dennis
	
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"If you can remain calm, you just don't have all the facts"
Dennis Wade
KG6ZI
Carmichael, CA