I wonder if the velocity factor, i.e. length, in the dipole would be
affected by the dielectric constant of the PCB?

I know that in microstrip transmission lines the Vf is inversely
proportional to the square root of the dielectric. This would be an
antenna with two different dielectrics; one, air: second PCB.

An alternative to etching the antenna, leaving copper for the antenna,
would be to etch the antenna away leaving the remainder of the copper
and tuning it as a 'Slot' antenna. This might have promise!

Deacon Dave, W1MCE
+ + +

Craig wrote:

A passing acquaintance of my wife's has E-mailed me for assistance
with calculating the element lengths for a UHF dipole he wishes to
build. I gave him the required information, however, he apparently
intends etching the antenna onto a printed circuit board and in a
subsequent E-mail he asked whether the width of the foils should be
the same as for regular rod elements.

In any event, in my very limited experience, I've never heard of
etching antennas onto a circuit board. Is this really possible, and if
so, can I direct him to a suitable web site with more info.

Craig