"'Doc" wrote in message ...
Ed,
You're right, I am 'confusing' omnidirectional with
'omniazimuthal'(?). But, I think if you consider the common
use (or misuse), what I said does hold together. One
example of a vertical array as I was trying to describe is
the 'Ringo Ranger'(2 el.), which is quoted as being
'omnidirectional',
and does have gain over a single element antenna.
As for signals directly overhead, I've never had much
need in receiving them (don't 'do' much VHF/UHF where it may
be desired). And since it's obvious that you knew what I was
referring to, I'm assuming your post is intended to correct my
mis-description. For that I thank you...
'Doc


Doc & Richard:


I wasn't trying to correct anybody, but I was being a bit pedantic in
defining "omnidirectional." People often approach the subject of antenna
patterns with a set of "assumed conventions", based on their area of
interest. TV broadcasters are near universally trying to target receivers
that are essentially at ground level. Any power directed more than just a
bit above horizontal is wasted power! But if you design GPS antennas, you do
a lot of thinking about the pattern at higher elevations.

If we stick to a rigorous interpretation of a three-dimensional co-ordinate
system, we can talk about any kind of antennas for any kind of service.

Ed
wb6wsn