The Shadow wrote:
I received this request from a VE ham.

"What gauge of insulated wire do I need to build a long wire for 20, 40,
80 meters.
In your personal experience, how long must the wires be to operate on
said freqs. I am using an old ts-820 only. I need to build it quick to
listen in on the upcoming Field day this June 23-24, 2007."

Thought I would ask here for opinions

Thanks
Lamont
Hi Lamont,
the definition of a true long wire is a minimum of 1 wavelength at the
lowest operating frequency. that would be about 256 feet for 80 Meters.
Though a shorter length will work many hams use a random wire that is
cut for a 1/2 wave on 80m about 136 feet or so and use it for 80 thru 10
Meters. however that antenna is not a true longwire until you get up to
40 Meters and above. Long wire are usually end fed with Open wire
feeders and a balanced matching system. they can be very good antennas
if mounted horizontal as high as possible above ground.
Hope this is of help
73 Dave Kc1di
P.S. A search of the internet will give you much info on Longwire
antennas some good some not so good.