Cecil Moore wrote:

John, N9JG wrote:
Finally, I
found that the only way to prevent feedback on SSB was to NOT connect my
system to the #8 ground wire that runs out the window sill and down to a
ground rod.

Yep, everyone should realize that a ground wire is N*1/4 wavelength
at certain frequencies, and at those frequencies, is an RF transformer
that locates the standing-wave voltage maximum points at the transmitter. (ouch!)
That's what artificial grounds do - change that *electrical* length
to N*1/2 wavelength. For anyone insisting on an RF ground for an upper
floor, an artificial ground is probably the way to go. I, myself, prefer
balanced antennas and feedlines.
--
73, Cecil http://www.qsl.net/w5dxp

Why not run two ground wires in parallel -- one twice as long as the
other? When one is Hi-Z the other will be Lo-Z and vice versa.

Irv VE6BP
--
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Diagnosed Type II Diabetes March 5 2001
Beating it with diet and exercise!
297/215/210 (to be revised lower)
58"/43"(!)/44" (already lower too!)
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Irv Finkleman,
Grampa/Ex-Navy/Old Fart/Ham Radio VE6BP
Calgary, Alberta, Canada