Steve wrote:
I've been a SWLer for years and am considering getting a ham license.
However, I live in an urban area (Brooklyn) and wonder just how
effectively I can transmit from here. Big outdoor antennas and ground
radials are out of the question.

Obviously I'd be starting out on VHF and UHF frequencies, perhaps with
only a modest handheld transceiver. Handhelds look pretty puny, but is
this appearance deceptive? Would one allow me to talk to lots of
people and learn from them?

Any insights you can share will be greatly appreciated.
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Suggest you have a look at http://www.hamlan.org/tech/tech.htm.

20m loaded mini-dipole by IK2BCP (length 1.75 metres or 5 3/4 feet)

This is an antenna for QRP (low power ) operation , but by using thicker
wire for the coils it will be suitable for higher RF power.

Results with this antenna are positively surprising.


Frank GM0CSZ / KN6WH