"Daniel C. Mckenzie" wrote in message
...
Looking for opinions on the performance of these mobile antennas.
I'm planning on going mobile, looking at the FT-100 or IC-706, but
I'd like to go with something designed as a well organized system. So
I could go with the FT-100 / ATAS 120, or the IC-706 / AH-4, or
maybe either one with one of the various screwdrivers. I've heard that
the screwdrivers perform much better than either ATAS or AH-4.
What's your experience? Do the matched systems really work well?
Do you think a screwdriver with external controller or even manual
tuning would be much better? How about guying? I see that most
screwdriver antennas require guying but not the Yaesu or Icom.
Are there any web sites I can go to with real measured data, not
just anecdotal stories?

Thanks for your time!

Dan, W9FCC


The screwdriver would get the nod in just about every case--particularly at
40 Meters and below. While I can't
point you in a particular direction on the spur of the moment, It is a known
fact that there is really no such thing as a "tuner". No matter what device
you use to "fool" the rig into thinking there is a resonant antenna out
there, there *really* is no substitute for a a resonant antenna. A properly
set up screwdriver will stomp on
a tuner or an ATAS and the ATAS would be simply because you are scrunching
the antenna down into a much smaller package. For the best results,
nothing beats
a BIG, UGLY antenna for HF--again where it concerns the lower bands. Of
course, I am sort of partial being that I make Screwdrivers (Carolina
Cyclone), but *I* would choose the SD and 706 combo. I also supply a
little tuning module with each antenna that allows you to
easily move your antenna coil into the right position. The
rig emits a tone and a 10-15 watt carrier. You then operate the screwdriver
motor up/down as needed to position your antenna correctly while observing
the SWR
on the 706's display. It is simple, quick, and beats the cost of those
auto-positioners all to pieces ($200 vs. about $15 for the module.)

Whatever antenna you choose, most people will agree that, while other
antennas can be quite satisfactory, no other antenna beats the SD or a large
center-loaded antenna. If you are satisfied with so-so performance, then
even hamsticks *work* (after a fashion). Me, I HATE a
puny HF mobile signal.


73

Jerry
K4KWH

www.qsl.net/k4kwh