A Horizontal Loop will pickup less vertically polarized atmospheric noise. I
am very satisfied with my 480 ft loop that is up 35 ft. For receive only, an
ATU would not be necessary, but it will improve the signal strength at some
frequencies.

My feedline is open line from the corner of the loop to the earth where
there is a 1:1 current type balun. I connect the shield of the coax to a 8
ft ground rod. If your area is prone to lightning, I would install a
polyphazer. The coax runs underground to the shack. The coax is only
connected to the rig when I am actually using the antenna.

This reconfiguration is relatively inexpensive. Go for it and compare the
results.

Joe O, KI5FJ

"Walter" wrote in message
om...
Should I run a Sky-wire loop?


I currently have a dipole hung by two trees about 30 feet off the
ground.


I would replace the dipole and run the Skywire loop off the same
trees, along with two more trees at the same height as the current
dipole.

This antenna would only be used for receiving, and never for
transmitting, the same for the dipole.

My question is, does anybody think it will make enough of a difference
over the dipole to warrant running it?

I would also like to know what your views are on "grounding" either
my current dipole, or the Sky-wire.

Currently, I have the coax center wire soldered onto one end of the
dipole, and the braid soldered onto the other end. I was told that I
should also ground the braid before it comes into the house and into
the radio.

I do have a ground wire attached to GND screw on the back of the
radio, going outside to a piece of copper pipe pounded into the
ground. Is this enough, or do I need to also ground the braid, and if
so, how? Will grounding help my reception, or decrease the noise on
the line?

Thanks.